Govt to summon mamak shop group over 30% cost increase claim

 Ministry wants Presma to provide a detailed explanation, backed by supporting evidence and data.

The Malaysian Muslim Restaurant Owners Association said mamak outlets are feeling the effects of global economic pressures following the 10% to 30% increase in the prices of certain goods. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA:

 The domestic trade and cost of living ministry will summon the Malaysian Muslim Restaurant Owners Association (Presma) to explain its claim that mamak restaurants are forced to pay up to 30% more for certain goods.

Deputy minister Fuziah Salleh said the ministry’s enforcement director-general will summon Presma to provide a detailed explanation, along with supporting evidence and data to substantiate its claim.

She said the ministry is committed to working with industry players to navigate challenges such as supply chain disruptions, higher input costs, and global pressures.

However, any price adjustments for consumers must not be made arbitrarily.

“The ministry will not hesitate to take stern action under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 if there are… unreasonable price increases,” Fuziah said in a statement.

“The government’s approach is clear: we are always open to working with industry players while remaining firmly committed to protecting consumers’ interests in a consistent manner.”

In an FMT report on March 26, Presma president Mosin Abdul Razak said mamak restaurants are feeling the effects of global economic pressures due to a 10% to 30% increase in the prices of certain goods.

Mosin said this was because of supply chain disruptions, rising logistics costs and prolonged global economic uncertainty, exacerbated by the war involving Iran.

However, he said most operators are trying to maintain their prices and absorb the additional costs by optimising their operations and reducing wastage. - FMT