As Ramadan enters its first week, bazaars nationwide have opened, offering a wide selection of local and fusion foods and drinks. Yet, public interest appears to be dipping, with complaints mounting over high prices and concerns about the quality of food and beverages.
Recently, major beverage brands have started setting up stalls at these bazaars, directly competing with traditional “air balang” vendors. On social media platform Threads, a user voiced support for the entry of established brands while criticising local vendors charging up to RM12 for a simple drink.
“All I can say is serves them right for overpricing drinks at bazaars. Big brands entering the scene might finally make these sellers reflect on their pricing and be more humble. If you feel offended, maybe you are one of those who overcharge customers,” the post read.
Netizens echoed these concerns, pointing out that some local vendors continue to charge steep prices despite receiving discounts on rental fees from local authorities. “RM10–RM12 for a diluted cordial drink seems excessive, even if I want to support small businesses. Even a coconut water without ice or sugar syrup tasted mostly like plain water,” one user commented.
Others noted that larger brands naturally have an advantage over small vendors due to greater resources and the ability to produce at scale, which allows them to offer lower prices. “The food and beverage business is highly competitive. Big brands can produce in bulk and reduce prices, whereas small vendors operate on a smaller scale, affecting their pricing,” a netizen explained.
The debate highlights ongoing tensions at Ramadan bazaars as shoppers weigh the appeal of traditional local offerings against more affordable and well-known brands, raising questions about pricing fairness and business ethics in festive markets.
