ALOR STAR: The Consumers Association of Kedah (Cake) is surprised by Ramadan bazaar prices.
President Yusrizal Yusoff today said it had been swamped by complaints about this.
"Our survey shows that prices have indeed risen compared with last year. However, the reason behind these increases remains a mystery.
"For instance, the prices of essential ingredients, such as flour, eggs, chicken and beef, have remained stable or even decreased.
"Yet the prices set by traders have increased.
"Last year, a murtabak cost RM4 or RM5, but it now costs RM6 or RM7."
Yusrizal said traders might argue about the need to adjust prices due to higher rental costs for bazaar lots and the two percent Sales and Service Tax (SST) hike.
He said, however, that those increases did not justify a significant price hike.
He urged traders to reevaluate their prices.
"We hope traders will be more ethical and not simply raise their prices."
He urged consumers to be mindful of their spending during Ramadan.
"This could compel traders to lower their prices."
Yesterday, it was reported that prices at Ramadan bazaars had risen, with traders citing the need to compensate for the rising costs of ingredients and rental fees for bazaar lots.
A survey at Pasar Besar Alor Star on Sunday found that the prices of beef, mutton and chicken had risen due to increased demand during the festive season.
Despite this, compared with last year's Ramadan, prices have remained broadly consistent, with adequate supply for most essential goods.