Fomca says rising food and daily costs continue to strain Malaysian households despite stable petrol prices
PETALING JAYA: While petrol prices remain stable, Malaysian households are still grappling with high living costs, with rising prices of food and daily essentials continuing to strain family budgets, according to the Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca).
“Stable fuel prices do help prevent further escalation in costs. Daily expenses such as food, utilities and services play a much larger role in shaping household financial pressures,” said Fomca CEO Saravanan Thambirajah
He said despite steady petrol prices, many households do not feel a meaningful reduction in overall expenses.
“Consumers are reporting increases in fresh vegetable prices in certain areas, likely due to supply and distribution factors.”
He added that restaurants and food stalls are also gradually adjusting prices in response to higher operating costs.
Saravanan said while these increases are noticeable, there has not yet been a widespread surge in complaints across all sectors.
He said at present the most significant increases are seen in the cost of fresh vegetables and dining out.
“Other essential goods and services have not triggered significant complaints yet but this may change depending on broader cost pressures in the coming months.
“Without fuel subsidies, the Consumer Price Index will likely increase much more sharply as fuel directly affects transport, logistics and supply chain expenses.”
He said by stabilising fuel prices the government is helping to contain cost pressures across multiple sectors.
Saravanan said while increases in food and services are being felt, the stabilising effect of fuel subsidies is welcome.
“Without such intervention the overall cost of living would be considerably higher.”
He said all segments of society are affected by rising costs but the B40 and M40 groups are feeling the impact more acutely.
“The B40 continues to receive government assistance, which offers some cushioning, but they remain vulnerable due to limited income and higher dependence on essential goods.”
He said the M40 group is increasingly under pressure but many in the group do not qualify for targeted aid.
“Those in the M40 group are likely experiencing higher financial stress as they absorb cost increases in food, services and daily expenses while trying to maintain their standard of living.”
Saravanan said while fuel subsidies are important, addressing the broader cost-of-living challenges require a more comprehensive approach.
He said providing targeted support for vulnerable groups, alongside close monitoring of essential goods and services, would be key to easing financial pressures on Malaysian households.
Tuesday, 24 Mar 2026, 8:30 am