A social media post by @heyitstaqi comparing the cost of curry puffs at a local Ramadan bazaar with those sold by IKEA has ignited a heated debate among Malaysians online.
The post pointed out that four curry puffs at the bazaar were priced at RM10, or RM2.50 per piece, prompting many to contrast it with IKEA’s more affordable offering. The straightforward comparison quickly divided netizens, with some defending small vendors while others criticised what they deemed overpricing.
Supporters of bazaar culture argued passionately for local businesses. queenofflowersae wrote, “IKEA is a rich company. If you don’t buy from them, nobody goes starving. But buying from a small vendor, you help them feed their family.” mrsdreamheart added, “I would still buy bazaar curry puffs at RM10 for 4 pieces. Every profit these vendors make can improve their living.”
On the other hand, some argued that supporting local businesses does not excuse high prices. “RM10 for just 4 pieces is excessively expensive. Food prices at bazaars are getting ridiculous,” one netizen said. rakibqp4u echoed this, stating, “Support local, but pricing must make sense. Overpriced food will simply be ignored in favour of cheaper options.”
Others criticised the comparison itself as unfair. wafiemaboy noted, “It’s hard to compare with IKEA. A better comparison is with another stall at the same bazaar. Are they using premium ingredients like wagyu beef or ayam cemani chicken? Otherwise, why is one selling 4 for RM5 and another 4 for RM10?”
Some offered more nuanced perspectives. farahatnazmi suggested, “A valid opinion comes after tasting it yourself.” asyraf1212 added with humour, “If it tastes better than IKEA, why not? Specs on paper can’t measure flavour. But if it’s expensive and not nice — see you in the afterlife field!”
Others emphasised the craftsmanship involved. ninaimullahnoor91 said, “It’s a spiral curry puff. It may not look the best, but it’s decent. RM2.50 per piece is fair if the filling is tasty and the pastry is flaky. Making a good spiral curry puff takes skill, and that adds value. Food prices should reflect the taste and quality.”
