KOTA KINABALU: Salary increases in both private and public sectors can help address the rising cost of living, says National Consumer Foundation Sabah chairman David Chan.
"Recently, the public has voiced concerns over the increase in school bus fares.
While this is understandable, we must also accept the reality that inflation and rising maintenance costs, such as spare parts and labour, have contributed to this adjustment. In light of these factors, I believe it is fair to reconsider and readjust school bus fares accordingly," he said on Tuesday (January 9).
Chan said that inflation's impact is widespread as even coffee shop helpers now earn a minimum wage of RM1,700 per month, while vehicle rental costs have surged.
"The economy operates in a chain reaction, where rising costs in one sector inevitably affect others," he added.
On global concerns, Chan expressed hope that the current outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in China would not disrupt Malaysia's food supply.
"During the Covid-19 pandemic, we witnessed severe shortages of staple foods worldwide. Therefore, we urge the federal government to prioritise food security to protect the nation from potential crises," he said.
