KUCHING: The escalating costs of goods present a challenge for vendors, yet the majority remain steadfast in their commitment to keeping prices reasonable for the wider public.
For many vendors, the annual Ramadan bazaar serves as a crucial avenue to supplement their income.
However, despite the challenge, vendors remain resilient, striving to maintain a balance between providing affordable prices for consumers and reaping profits.
New Sarawak Tribune spoke to several vendors at the Emart Matang Ramadan bazaar here to gain deeper insights into how they cope with the rising prices of goods.
NURFAZLIN, 25
Housewife
For the past three to four years, I have been trading at this bazaar and the upward pricing rate has significantly impacted us vendors. It’s challenging for us to increase the prices of our foods, but we have no other option. We must set our prices with the current rate. On regular days, we take orders from home, and the prices are slightly lower than those sold here.
MORNI SAMSUDIN, 63
Businessman
My family has been engaging in business for generations and we have been selling at this bazaar since 2016. Recently, the high pricing rate has posed challenges, but I must balance the cost of goods purchased with the selling prices. So far, customers have been understanding about the situation and as long as there are no complaints, we are content.
NOORSITA ZAINI, 58
Businesswoman
Selling food here for the past four years, I have informed my customers about the price increases due to soaring prices of goods. Despite this, my loyal customers still patronise my stall. I have not alter or reduce the quality of my dishes, but I may decrease portion sizes to offer lower prices.
MOHD NABIL MOHD ESA, 18
Chef
I own a restaurant nearby and started selling at this Ramadan bazaar last year. The prices for my foods have remained unchanged for years because the impact of rising rates on my business has been minimal. But if prices go up drastically, I may adjust my prices accordingly.
RADZIAH MORNI, 56
Hawker
I have maintained the prices of my food to accommodate those who can’t afford meals, especially low-income individuals. The rise in pricing rates does not concern us because we view our business as an opportunity to help the needy.
MOHD AMIR FIRDAUS, 30
Plumber
My family and I have been selling at this bazaar since its launch in 2013. Personally, I feel burdened by the rising costs. Although it had little impact on my business, I still maintain the price of food and drinks that we sell because I know there are people who could not afford. It is also one of the ways for us to do charity while doing business.
