Do it yourself: Zarol (right) and a friend choosing a fluorescent tube at a DIY shop in Bandar Perda. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
BUKIT MERTAJAM: Whether it’s fixing a leaky faucet, replacing a light bulb or patching up a wall, having these basic repair skills will save you a significant amount of money over time.
And you can say goodbye to over-reliance on professional services for every minor issue.
For Mat Isa Awang, 42, carrying out wiring, plumbing and fixing defects at his house is something he has been doing since he was young.
“I have always been the handyman and carry out repairs by myself, which has helped me save money over the years.
“By doing all these repairs on my own, I can easily save up to 50% in costs.
“For example, if I hire someone to fix a water pipe, it will come up to at least RM35 for labour charges minus the cost of the item to be replaced.
“So, rather than hire a plumber, I can just do it by myself at a much cheaper cost,” said Mat Isa, who has been working as a wireman for more than 20 years.
Spotted at a DIY shop in Bandar Perda, Mat Isa who was looking for a water pipe for his house sink, said it was easier now to find hardware items, which are reasonably priced.
In the past, Mat Isa said he relied on traditional hardware shops for supplies.
“Consumers today have more options and choices in terms of price and quality.
“There used to be only one or two shops but now, there are many alternatives and that makes a big difference,” he added.
Mat Isa said that being independent in sourcing materials and handling minor work himself has been key to managing expenses efficiently.
He encourages others to explore similar approaches, especially amid rising living costs.
Factory technician Zarol Anwar, 26, believes that simple household tasks such as replacing light bulbs and fixing minor defects should be managed without relying on others.
“People should learn to do the basics themselves because it is not difficult, and it saves time and money,” he said.
He said he only hires an electrician or handyman if there is a major defect or repair at his house.
“With online tutorials and easy access to hardware tools, most people are capable of handling simple repairs without professional help these days,” Zarol added.
Housewife Reena Kaur, 35, said she likes to buy gardening tools at DIY outlets as they are cheap and affordable.
“I do simple gardening work while my husband cuts the grass in our yard.”
Reena said the availability of gardening tools now makes it convenient for everyone to buy and use them.
She also said that even artificial grass can be bought at DIY outlets and housewives like her can fix it on her own.
