SHOCKING RISE IN PRICE OF DAUN KETUMBAR AND DAUN SUP

The Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) is shocked to learn of the recent rapid increase in the price of daun ketumbar (coriander leaves) and daun sup sold in Penang markets.

A CAP market survey carried out on 18 May 2020 shows that the prices of locally grown daun ketumbar and daun sup, and daun saderi (Chinese celery) have increased drastically.

Daun ketumbar which was imported from Thailand increased from RM10.00 per kg (RM1.00 per 100 gm) to RM22.00 per kg (RM2.20 per 100 gm) three weeks ago and currently the price is RM 50.00 per kg (RM 5.00 per 100gm). This would be five times its normal price! Even the price of locally grown daun ketumbar had increased more than double from RM20.00 per kg (RM2.00 per 100 gm) to RM47.00 per kg (RM4.70 per 100 gm). The demand for Thai coriander is high because it is more fragrant than locally grown ones. Daun sup price increased from RM4.00 per kg (40 sen per 100gm) to RM 10.00 per kg (RM1.00 per 100gm).

According to traders, the increase is due to a high demand for these herbs especially during the month of Ramadan. However, the more than double in price increase within a short timeframe of this readily available and easily grown herb is outrageous to say the least.

We call on the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs to immediately carry out a crackdown on traders practising this exorbitant price hike and to take action under Malaysia’s Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011.

CAP would also like to advise consumers to avoid becoming victims of this blatant act of profiteering. Instead of purchasing daun ketumbar and daun sup at the local market, try growing the herb. It does not require a lot of space, a container or pot will do, and it is easy to take care.

Press Statement, 19 May 2020