Scoring a bargain: Clubs can be rented for RM10 while a session costs RM18 at a golf centre in Iskandar Puteri. — THOMAS YONG/The Star
Savvy vendors share how affordability builds customer loyalty and rapport while keeping business model sustainable
While many Malaysians are feeling the pinch of inflation, some hawkers and small businesses in Johor have chosen to keep prices low.
As such, Johoreans are discovering that daily necessities and leisure remain surprisingly affordable – from RM2 nasi lemak and RM4 chicken rice to RM10 car washes and RM5 haircuts.
These modest bargains are proof that the ringgit still stretches far in certain corners.
A neighbourhood carwash keeps its prices low despite proximity to Singapore.
Even in today’s economy, there are still hawkers who prioritise community over profit.
One of them is Tong Weng Long who has maintained the price of his chicken rice at just RM4, which often surprises new customers.
“Many assume it is a gimmick, but once they try the food, they will return as regulars,” said Tong, who operates five chicken rice stalls across the city.
Hwang (left) conducting a lesson at a golf centre in Iskandar Puteri, where locals make up 70% of customers. — Photos: THOMAS YONG/The Star
He explained that the RM4 meal was designed to cater to families, students and lower-income groups.
“Business should not only be about profit.
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“Although some of my stalls have higher rentals, I believe there must be affordable meals in every neighbourhood.
“Providing this option is my way of giving back to the community,” he added.
Riana sells nasi lemak telur for RM2 at Taman Tampoi Utama.
Some of Tong’s customers have been regulars for over a decade, as they are able to feed their families without overspending.
Nasi lemak seller Riana Sanuri has taken a similar approach.
The 15-year veteran in Taman Tampoi Utama sells nasi lemak telur at RM2.
The price has only seen a 50sen increase since she started.
Tong says the chicken rice is priced at only RM4 as a way of giving back to the community.
“RM2 meals have been a lifesaver for mothers looking for cheap breakfasts for their children.
“I don’t mind earning less profit, as it helps to ease their burden,” said Riana.
She said workers commuting to Singapore would often grab a packet before heading across the Causeway.
Services at a steal
Beyond food, Johor residents are also finding value-for-money services.
Weekends for Arafat Nir Ahmad often begin with a visit to his neighbourhood carwash in Taman Nusa Bestari, where a full wash costs RM10.
“Living so close to Singapore, I expected everything here would be expensive.
Arafat is surprised to find reasonably priced car wash services in his neighbourhood.
“But many businesses still keep their prices reasonable – some are even cheap. I can afford to come here weekly,” he said.
Parents like Connie Nyadang are equally grateful for affordable grooming services.
The mother-of-five pays just RM5 for each child’s haircut at her neighbourhood barber in Taman Tampoi Utama.
“With three schoolgoing boys, monthly grooming can get expensive.
Tan says the karaoke outlet aims to create a safe, affordable and fun place for its patrons.
“Here, I only spend RM15 for all three, which is cheaper than a single haircut in most city salons,” she said.
For Connie, it is these small savings that allow her to put aside a little extra each month for school supplies and groceries.
Leisure for the masses
Affordable leisure options are also helping families stretch their ringgit further.
At a Trackman golf centre near Iskandar Puteri – one of only two in Malaysia – sessions cost RM18, with golf club rentals at RM10.
“Golf is usually considered expensive, but here, families can enjoy the sport regularly.
“About 70% of our customers are locals,” said coach Korman Hwang, who has been teaching golf in Johor Baru for eight years.
Osman and his wife Rosti Sahid are regulars at a bowling centre where sessions only cost RM8 per hour.
Bowling too remains within reach. In Bandar Baru Uda, games are priced at RM8.
Aircraft equipment operator Osman Ahmad said, “My wife and I come here often. A round of bowling only costs the same as a cup of bubble tea.
“With such prices, there is no reason to stop,” he said.
Entertainment outlets are also keeping things light on the wallet.
People enjoying a karaoke session in Taman Pelangi, at an outlet which charges only RM5 per person.
At a family-friendly karaoke centre in Taman Pelangi, sessions cost only RM5 per person.
“Our aim is to create a safe, fun and affordable space for families and students.
“Since the Covid-19 pandemic, we have only raised prices by RM1,” said manager Tan Ai Lee.
She added that many regulars would patronise the karaoke centre to sing as a stress reliever after work or college classes.
One of five stalls that offer a chicken rice meal for only RM4.
For college students especially, the karaoke outlet has become a favourite hangout.
It is a place where they can unwind without feeling guilty about spending too much.
The availability of these affordable options shows that locals are still able to live well enough without burning holes in their pockets.
