March 18, 2025 | the Sun |
With Hari Raya Aidilfitri approaching, lemang prices are rising due to a coconut milk shortage and increasing costs of essential ingredients. Prices are expected to reach RM25 to RM30 per stick. Despite complaints, demand for lemang remains strong, especially during the festive season. Lemang sellers, like Mohd Karim Ismail in Kuala Lumpur, explain that higher prices for coconut milk, glutinous rice, and bamboo have forced them to increase prices. Coconut milk, a key ingredient in many traditional foods, now costs RM16 per kilogramme due to limited supply and higher costs of coconuts—both imported and local.
The Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) is concerned that vendors will pass these rising costs on to consumers, straining household budgets during the holiday. Although the government has announced plans to increase coconut imports to stabilize the market, uncertainty remains. CAP urges price controls on key ingredients like coconut milk and rice to ease the burden on vendors and consumers.
Some families may reduce their lemang purchases or seek cheaper alternatives, potentially affecting vendor revenues. However, lemang’s cultural importance during Hari Raya means many will still prioritize buying it despite rising prices. Small-scale vendors face the challenge of balancing higher costs without losing customers.
