February 17, 2025 | New Straits Times |
The price of coconut milk in Malaysia has surged to RM20 per kilogram, driven by the rising cost of imported Indonesian coconuts. Prices began increasing in November 2023, rising from RM16 per kg, forcing traders to raise prices to avoid losses, despite declining sales.
Many consumers are now switching to instant coconut milk due to the high costs. Traders like Mohd Fadzli Hamzah report that nearly all coconut supplies are imported, with local shortages due to the "melawas" season, where coconut trees fail to bear fruit. Some traders have been forced to shut down due to continuous losses.
The price surge is also affecting food vendors, especially those selling traditional dishes like ketupat, rendang, lemang, and nasi lemak, which require large amounts of coconut milk. Further price hikes are expected during Ramadan and Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
With prices fluctuating daily, many customers remain skeptical, and concerns grow over the impact on traditional Malay cuisine.
