With Thaipusam nearing in just two weeks, the Federation of Malaysian Consumers Association (FOMCA) has raised concerns on the rising prices and shortage of coconuts, one of the most important elements during Thaipusam. FOMCA president, Dr. Saravanan Thambirajah has called the Domestic Trade and Cost Of Living Ministry to look into whether the suppliers are consciously limiting the stocks to hike the prices up during the festive season.
Dr.Saravanan also highlighted the price of coconuts for last year’s Thaipusam which was RM 1.90 each but now it has surged to RM2.50 each. He emphasized that coconuts are one of the most important things for Thaipusam prayers and rituals.
“We fail to understand why price hikes and shortages of essential items repeatedly occur during festive seasons like Thaipusam, Chinese New Year, Hari Raya and Christmas.” said Dr. Saravanan.
While acknowledging this issue, he called for more transparency and stricter oversight to ensure fair pricing for the community. He suggested early imports and improved stock management to avoid shortage and give a more stabilized price during the festive season. And broader food security strategy, including strengthening local coconut production to reduce reliance on imports.
Consumer Association of Penang senior education officer N.V Subbarao echoed similar concerns, that shortage of coconuts during Thaipusam is an annual issue.
“Shortage during Thaipusam is a yearly issue. Many devotees take vows to break a large number of coconuts, but interestingly the Chinese Community often breaks more coconuts than Hindu’s believing it brings greater luck”.
The shortage to poor harvest caused by climate change and labor shortage, some suppliers have refrained from taking orders this year, driving up prices. One supplier typically sells 50k to 100k coconuts for Thaipusam, but has reported no supply this year. Making it to push the price to RM4 each, he attributed.
The calls for action as Thaipusam approaches, with coconuts being a vital role for such festivities. Effective measures are needed to address these issues to ensure all the devotees can fulfil their prayers.
Sources: The Sun
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