With Thaipusam just two weeks away on February 11, the Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (FOMCA) has urged the government to investigate possible price manipulation of coconuts.

FOMCA president Dr. Saravanan Thambirajah pointed out that the price of coconuts has increased from RM1.90 last year to RM2.50 each this year. He questioned why essential items often face shortages and price hikes during festive seasons like Thaipusam, Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, and Christmas.

Coconuts are a key part of Hindu rituals, symbolising the breaking of one’s ego and serving as sacred offerings. With demand rising during Thaipusam, Saravanan called for better supply management, stricter oversight, and early imports to prevent shortages and price surges.

He also stressed the need for a long-term food security strategy to reduce reliance on imports and ensure fair pricing.

Meanwhile, Consumers Association of Penang senior officer N.V. Subbarow highlighted that coconut shortages during Thaipusam happen every year. He noted that both Hindu and Chinese devotees contribute to the high demand, as many believe breaking coconuts brings good luck.

One major supplier, who usually sells 50,000 to 100,000 coconuts during Thaipusam, reportedly has no stock this year. This shortage could push prices up to RM4 per coconut.

While coconuts are being imported from Indonesia to ease the problem, Subbarow raised concerns about their quality, citing cases where imported coconuts were spoiled.

He urged temples to advise devotees to limit the number of coconuts they break, suggesting alternatives like using one coconut per person or offering bananas instead.

Source : The Sun
Image Credit : Bernama