KOTA SAMARAHAN: The hike in the price of rice has certainly made an adverse impact on the finances of the people.
Padiberas Nasional Berhad (BERNAS) recently announced an increase in the sale price of imported white rice at its warehouses nationwide from RM2,350 per metric ton to RM3,200 per metric ton, beginning Sept 1, to reflect the most recent pricing of imported white rice in the international market.
At present, Malaysians consume about 30 per cent of imported rice while the rest is from local rice whose price remains the same as the old price.
New Sarawak Tribune conducted a survey with some consumers on the issue at Summer Mall Shopping Complex, here recently.
VERONIE CHALENGA RAYANG, 22, Student
I come to Emart Summer Mall to shop for groceries with my family; we go out almost every week to buy necessities. The price of rice has increased by RM10; previously rice cost RM39 per bag but today, rice costs RM49 per bag, and we continue to use the same brand of rice. If at all possible, I hope that the government can assist in reducing the price of rice, as this is the main food source for all of us.
MOHAMAD NUR FAWWAZ ZAINALABIDIN, 24, Private Sector Employee
Now that I have a family, my monthly expenses are increasing, and it is true that the price of essentials such as rice have soared in recent months. The price of rice appears to be rising, previously, we usually purchased Butterfly brand rice but now, due to the rise in the rate of inflation, I downgrade to 3A rice. I can afford 3A but I hope the government can reduce the price of rice for those who are in need.
FANTAGHIRO VATICAN CASSVAN, 26, Sales Assistant
People’s living expenses have increased as a result of the unexpected increase of essential items like rice. Even if you only buy a few items, the price is escalating. If I get a job, my mother and I will need to buy extra rice for stock. As the eldest of my siblings, I hope that the government may lower the price of rice for the people even further. I feel sympathy for those who have to cope with the situation. With the rising cost of living, a minimum wage of RM1.5k like us is insufficient to purchase daily basics.
DAYANG ROHAISYA AWANG HAP, 32, Sales Assistant
For me, the surge in the price of rice has significantly increased our family’s expenses. Previously, my husband and I always bought two 10kg bags of rice, but as the expense of living rose, we were forced to buy only one bag of rice. With the increase in the price of rice, the price of commodities has risen to the point that RM100 can only buy a few items. Not counting baby milk, daily food, and other requirements for children. Our pay is clearly insufficient for those of us with families.
