Much like those Ed Sheeran tickets that are so highly coveted, spaces at incredibly popular Ramadan bazaars are also being re-sold to the highest bidder. While we reported that Ed Sheeran tickets that sold out in 20 minutes were quickly going for 5 times their value on re-seller sites, food sellers have been subjected to the same racket at your local pasar Ramadan.
Yes, in a world where some are willing to do anything for a buck, MStar reports concerns from local authorities, Pihak Berkuasa Tempatan (PBT), that spaces given to traders at RM500, were then sold on to third parties for RM8,000. Yes, that is eight times what they cost. RM7500 per stall is going straight into someone’s pocket, for the personal gain. During Ramadan. A month that is associated with piety, has now become tainted by the greed of those wanting to make money.
PBT director Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan expressed his displeasure, telling reporters that state governments offer assistance and subsidies to hawker associations and corporation, who have returned the favor by taking cues by creating a racket.
He went on to say he was not surprised that bazaar food prices had increased, asking how can prices be lowered when stall operators are paying RM8,000 for a spot.
Plans are in motion next year to only allow associations and corporations 50% of the stall spots, while the other half will be given out at random to the public.
This is all fine and seems like a decent enough plan, but what happened to just being honest? If there was ever a month for it, it might probably just be Ramadan. Is nothing sacred anymore?
