Malaysians have once again raised eyebrows over high food prices after a popular vendor faced criticism for charging RM18.90 for just three pieces of lumpia, roughly RM6.30 per roll, according to a post on Threads.
Although lumpia — a Filipino dish of meat and vegetables wrapped in spring roll skin and deep-fried until crispy — features ingredients commonly available in Malaysia, the vendor claimed her rolls contained premium fillings. The vendor, who set up near a mosque in Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, said the rolls included two types of meat, chicken or beef, along with buna-shimeji mushrooms, jicama (sengkuang), mozzarella cheese, and were topped with Parmesan and a coriander sprig, as shown in an accompanying video.
This is not the first time the Perak-based seller has attracted attention over pricing. Last year, she was criticised for a Thai chicken and rice dish, prompting discussions on whether local dishes are being overpriced.
Many social media users questioned the cost, noting that ingredients such as mushrooms are inexpensive, especially when bought in bulk. “The mushrooms don’t even cost RM3 in most stores,” one commenter noted.
Responding to the backlash, the vendor posted a TikTok video explaining the pricing. She emphasised the care taken in sourcing ingredients, preparation, and cooking, stating: “We always prioritise quality and taste. Every menu item is cooked with care, ensuring freshness and the highest standards so that every customer enjoys a satisfying and high-quality dining experience.”
