KUALA LUMPUR, 2 May 2025 – Do you love eating nasi lemak for breakfast? Many Malaysians do! But did you know that the price of nasi lemak has gone up a lot over the years?
According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), the average price of a plate of nasi lemak in 2011 was only RM2.03. But in 2024, it now costs around RM3.68. That’s an 81.3% increase in 13 years!
Why Did the Price Go Up?
There are a few reasons why your favourite breakfast has become more expensive:
1. Ingredient Costs
Items like rice, coconut milk, eggs, anchovies, and chili have all become more costly. When ingredient prices go up, so does the final price of the food.
2. Transportation and Fuel
Delivering food and ingredients costs more when fuel prices rise. This affects stalls, restaurants, and even school canteens.
3. Wages and Operating Costs
Workers now earn more than before, and shop owners have to pay rent, electricity, and other bills. These costs are included in the price you pay for your nasi lemak.
Fun Facts for Kids
- Nasi lemak is often called Malaysia’s national dish.
- It’s usually served with coconut rice, sambal, egg, cucumber, peanuts, and anchovies.
- You can find nasi lemak at roadside stalls, restaurants, cafes, and even in schools.
Nasi lemak remains a beloved Malaysian dish, but its price increase over the years teaches us an important lesson about rising costs and inflation. While RM3.68 may seem high compared to 2011, it’s a reminder of how the economy changes over time. Even so, nasi lemak continues to bring joy to Malaysians of all ages—proving that some traditions are worth every cent.
