State rep stands by 'cook cheaper than eating out' despite backlash

Rawang assemblyperson Chua Wei Kiat is standing by his demonstration that preparing one’s own meals is cheaper than eating out, despite backlash from internet users.

“Everyone certainly has their own thoughts and opinions to defend and express,” he told Malaysiakini when asked yesterday to comment on the criticism against him.

“I believe the government has been making efforts to control prices,” he added.

On Friday last week, Chua made a Facebook post showing it would cost RM5 to get a bowl of Maggi instant noodles to eat out, but buying a five-pack of the same noodles to cook himself costs RM4.80.

The post came after Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli argued that past policies have caused Malaysians to become “addicted” to eating out, which depleted what little disposable income they have.

“What Rafizi said is true, it is cheaper to eat at home. Don’t get angry when leaders speak the truth,” Chua wrote.

Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli

Despite his plea, the comments left on his post were mostly negative. One of the most popular comments read, “Save some stupidity for your descendants”.

Another netizen questioned, “Did you study at all? Businesses have costs, like oil, water, and gas. If we buy Maggi, what do we use to cook them at home? Are we to cook Maggi by burning leaves?

Others pointed out that consuming too many instant noodles is unhealthy.

Willing to pay higher prices

Meanwhile, elaborating to Malaysiakini, Chua said the economics of supply and demand contribute to price hikes but even after businesses raise prices, consumers are still willing to continue buying.

Apart from instant noodles, Chua also cited the popular drink, Milo.

Chua Wei Kiat

“Previously, a glass of Milo cost just slightly over RM2, but now it’s more than RM4 per glass.

“However, in reality, a large pack of Milo (powder) in supermarkets costs over RM20. Consumers can actually make their own Milo at home for about RM2 but they prefer to buy the RM4 Milo, so that’s why the price remains at that level.

“I also understand that it’s normal for people to eat out. However, if you want to save money and reduce the cost of living, cooking at home is one way to do it,” he said.

Recently, during vox-pop interviews at the Salak South morning market and eateries around Desa Petaling in Kuala Lumpur, members of the public cited the lack of time as the main reason for choosing to eat out.

Some also expressed doubt they would save much money by cooking their own meals. - Mkini