Consumer federation backs the Prime Minister’s appeal for patience amid rising fuel and living costs, urging coordinated action from households, businesses, and authorities
THE Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (FOMCA) has urged Malaysians to remain united, resilient, and patient in the face of mounting pressures from a turbulent global energy environment.
The federation has expressed its support for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s call for public preparedness as geopolitical tensions, disruptions in global supply chains, and volatile energy markets drive up costs worldwide.
FOMCA acknowledged that these developments will directly impact living expenses, particularly through higher fuel prices, electricity tariffs, and the costs of goods and services.
“In facing these pressures, Malaysians must remain calm, resilient, and patient as the country navigates this period of uncertainty,” the federation said in a statement on Wednesday.
The organisation highlighted that the government is actively taking steps to soften the blow for consumers.
Measures such as capping fuel prices under schemes like BUDI95, combined with targeted subsidies and financial assistance, are designed to prevent global price surges from being fully transferred to households. “
“These efforts reflect the government’s commitment to protecting consumers while managing broader economic realities,” FOMCA noted.
The federation also stressed the importance of rigorous enforcement.
Authorities are urged to continue monitoring supply chains and price movements to prevent profiteering and unwarranted price hikes.
Ongoing inspections and enforcement actions are vital to ensure traders act fairly and that consumers are protected during this challenging period.
Businesses, too, are called upon to behave responsibly, ensuring that any price adjustments are justified, transparent, and not used as an opportunity for undue profit.
FOMCA emphasised that ethical business conduct is crucial to maintaining public trust and sharing the economic burden equitably amid global uncertainty.
Consumers are encouraged to adopt prudent spending habits, prioritise essential purchases, reduce transport and energy costs, and bolster financial resilience through careful budgeting and savings.
Participation in community initiatives, such as cooperative buying and local support networks, is also advocated as a means to strengthen collective resilience.
“Moving forward, resilience must be a shared national effort. Consumers, businesses, and the government all have a role to play in adapting to the evolving energy landscape,” FOMCA said.
Drawing on lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic, the federation urged Malaysians to once again stand shoulder to shoulder in confronting these new global challenges.
“While the road ahead may be difficult, with cooperation, discipline, and collective responsibility, Malaysia will be able to navigate this period and emerge stronger.
“FOMCA remains committed to safeguarding consumer interests and will continue to work closely with the government and stakeholders to ensure that no consumer is left behind,” said Dr Saravanan Thambirajah, Chief Executive Officer.
FOMCA President Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Marimuthu Nadason reinforced the call for collective responsibility, stating: “Smart Consumers, Strong Communities.” - April 1, 2026