GEORGE TOWN – Since hotels in Penang are among the hardest hit due to travel restrictions, they have turned to selling street food and fast food for as low as RM3 each, triggering a “food war”.
This is because their prices are lower than what the usual hawkers here charge for the state’s famous street food.
While hawkers’ associations here have no choice but to accept the stiff competition, one food-seller in Air Itam lowered his prices after he saw a hotel selling the same dish he makes for RM3 a plate.
The hawker then took to social media to promote his RM2.90 char koay teow.
Penang Consumer Protection Association president Datuk K. Koris Atan told The Vibes this “food war” augurs well for consumers, who can now expect lower prices.
“I can now say that, it is not only ‘the best cook wins’ but the best cost analysis wins. Also, whoever has the best business model, knows how to innovate, will survive. It is now survival of the fittest.
“I think a food war is a consolation for the people who have to put up with the movement control order (MCO) that has been extended to February 18.”
On the flip side, he said, are food traders and grocers who have been citing the MCO as an excuse to raise prices for certain items.
“Consumers should be wise and boycott traders and hawkers who try to profiteer during dire times.”
He, however, also reminded hoteliers that Penangites are choosy about food, and tend to remain staunchly loyal to their favourite hawkers.
“Hotel chefs must not only sell cheap food, they must ensure it is tasty and nutritious.” – The Vibes, February 7, 2021
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