KUALA LUMPUR — Ramadan bazaars are a cherished Malaysian tradition, but in 2026, many shoppers are feeling the pinch.

On-the-ground observations by Malay Mail at several bazaars in the Klang Valley found that prices for staple dishes and beverages have crept up compared with previous years.

At the TTDI Bazaar in Kuala Lumpur, Farah Ahmad, 31, a corporate communications manager, was surveying a stall selling roti John when she reflected on how much her spending habits have changed over the past year.

“Last year, RM30 was enough to feed two of us, usually a plate of nasi kerabu and a beef murtabak to share. We didn’t have to think twice about it.

“This year, I automatically prepared RM40 to RM50 and even then, it barely feels like enough,” she told Malay Mail.

She said her usual iftar order may sound simple, but the total tells a different story as nasi kerabu with ayam percik is sold for RM16, a regular sized murtabak daging at RM12, and two drinks at RM6 each. By the time she pays, she said it is close to RM40 for what used to feel like a normal meal.

“RM30 now gets you maybe one proper meal and a drink with some kuih. That’s it. We still come for the experience, but it’s no longer an everyday treat,” she added.