Five-year ‘leap’ in food prices

FOOD prices have gone up the most in the last five years, some by more than 100%, according to a report by China Press that compares the prices of goods and costs of services from 2011.

If the Chinese saying “Foodstuff is allimportant to people” is to be taken seriously, one can imagine how much the spike in food prices has impacted on people’s lives.

The report pointed out that roti canai cost only 60 to 80 sen five years ago, but it now costs between RM1.20 and RM1.50, meaning an increase of 100%.

Similarly, canned drinks sold for RM1.20 each at coffee shops in 2011 now cost RM2.20 each. Even air suam (warm water) has gone up to 60 sen a glass, from 30 sen before.

And a plate of fried noodles, which was sold for between RM4 and RM4.50 five years ago, now cost RM5 to RM6.

And there is no respite from the waves of price hikes for those who do not eat out. Canned food prices have been going up yearly. For example, a certain brand of canned sardines that cost just RM4 a can in 2011 is now sold at RM9.70.

Instant noodles, which were sold at about RM4 per pack of five before, cost about RM6 now.

The prices of fresh vegetables, fish and meat have all gone up in the last five years.

Families with babies lament the increase in the prices of infant formula: a certain brand that was sold at RM17.90 a tin of 1kg now costs RM24.90.

House prices on the average have been increasing by 10% a year, far greater than the pay raise of the average Malaysian.

Public transport charges also saw sharp increases last year.

Economist Datuk Chua Tia Guan told the daily that food and goods price increases are closely related.

He said Malaysians should increase their income to offset the effects of inflation.