Pengguna perihatin

Federation of Malaysia Consumers Associations (Fomca) secretary-general Muhammad Sha’ani Abdullah, who made the call, said households in this income bracket needed Government assistance in view of the rising costs of living.

He said Fomca had sent a memorandum to the Finance Ministry in March on the matter, adding that schoolchildren from such families should also be entitled to free food in schools.

He said the body had conducted a simple survey which showed that a family of four schoolgoing children needed at least RM3,000 a month to make ends meet.

“At times, the lower-income group cannot even afford to service their loans for low-cost houses,” he said.

He felt that the lower income earners should also be provided with coupons for free public transportation.

On the Government’s move to phase out subsidies, Sha’ani suggested that a “quota system” be implemented for subsidies.

“For example, a person should be able to buy 200 litres of subsidised petrol per month, and pay the full price for any amount after that.” Sha’ani also advised consumers to spend wisely and look out for cheaper alternatives.

Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) president S.M. Mohamed Idris said while many would have to tighten their belts to cope with rising costs, they should not hold back on essentials such as food and education.

He said people should cut down only on excesses and lavish spending, but not be “stingy” about basic essentials.

“People need to get their priorities right and differentiate between their wants and needs. Even with the price increases, people should not skimp on food and education expenditure.”

He also encouraged the public to make healthier food choices and even grow their own vegetables, and reduce their intake of alcohol and cigarettes.

To cut down on unnecessary purchases, he advised consumers to make a list of their current expenses, and then match their monthly budget by deleting non-essentials from the list.