Operators of Malaysian Indian Muslim, or Mamak, restaurants plan to raise their prices by at least 5% starting next year to address rising operational costs.

In Johor alone, around 300 Mamak restaurant operators are expected to implement price increases in 2025.

According to Harian Metro, Johor Indian Muslim Entrepreneurs Association secretary Hussein Ibrahim explained that the price hikes are due to rising operational expenses, driven by continuous increases in raw material costs and the new RM1,700 minimum wage set to take effect in February 2025.

Hussein noted, “Around 300 Indian Muslim restaurant operators in Johor have voiced concerns about rising operational costs, which will be further affected by the upcoming minimum wage implementation. Additionally, we must provide EPF contributions for foreign workers, adding to our costs.”

He added that over 60% of employees at Mamak restaurants are foreign workers, and the removal of diesel blanket subsidies has forced operators to absorb higher raw material costs.

Despite these challenges, Hussein clarified that the operators are awaiting guidance from their parent association, Presma, before finalizing the minimum 5% price increase.