Channel NewsAsia 7 Feb 08;
KUALA LUMPUR: It's a more subdued Lunar New Year this time round in the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur as higher food prices, and a sense of uncertainty over the economic outlook, are putting a dampener on the usual spending spree.
Shoppers and business owners said the pre-new year shopping spree has been slow to take off.
Despite that, shoppers head down to the heart of Chinatown to soak up the feel of Lunar New Year.
The popular grilled meat or Bak Kwa shop is still pulling in the loyal customers, and maybe more new ones.
And to cut waiting time, customers are encouraged to indicate their orders even before they arrive at the serving counter.
The hot favourites are grilled chicken and ham, but all varieties cost US 60 cents more per kilo this year.
Elaine Kiew, a shop owner, said: "It's because of the raw material. If the ingredients cost more, then we have to raise our prices a bit."
Apart from the festive season, rising transport, food and fuel costs have pushed prices up by some 20 per cent.
In an effort to control spiralling prices, the government recently launched a national stockpile, which included petroleum.
But inflation or otherwise, the Chinese community is determined to make the best of the occasion.
Although the Chinese only makes up about less than half of the country's population, the spirit of unity fills the air with all races joining in the celebrations. -CNA/vm
