That’s right peeps, if you’re wondering why your plate of mixed rice with the same items you picked before MCO now cost more during RMCO, is because of that juicy fried chicken you took.

Apparently, the increase is due to a mechanism our government implemented during MCO, the Festive Season Maximum Price Control Scheme was out in place to limit supply after demand declined, but this caused another effect when demand started going up again, aint rocket science but supply became scarce.

Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Alexander Nanta Linggi said the demand for chicken plunged when business premises, restaurants, hotels, functions and celebrations were not allowed to operate during the MCO period, adding that the situation was temporary and supply was expected to return to normal soon.

With the resumption on all sectors, the demand for chicken is sky rocketing and so are the prices, being the most popular meat consumed in the country any price hike will be a burden for the people. In this respect, Nanta said the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP) would continue to monitor the situation and take necessary actions as stipulated in the act under its jurisdiction.

“The Ministry would like to advise all industry players, wholesalers and traders to be fair and not take advantage of the current situation,” he said in a statement today.

For those who come across suspiciously exorbitant nasi lemak ayam or chicken rice price, you can make a complain but its better for consumers to conduct price comparisons before heading to restaurants or if cooking at home check the price via the Price Catcher apps to get the best prices offered at the right premises.