7th May 2025 - 2 min read
Consumers across Malaysia can expect higher prices for laundry services following a sharp increase in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) costs, prompting operators nationwide to adjust their rates.
The cost of regular washing services is anticipated to rise from RM7 to RM10 per kilogramme, while dry-cleaning for items such as shirts is expected to increase from RM12 to RM15 or RM16. Coin-operated laundry services are also affected, with drying cycles likely to go up from RM5 to RM8.
According to Mohd Hafizul Razali, secretary-general of the Persatuan Pengusaha Dobi Melayu (Mula), laundry businesses have been left with little choice but to revise prices after the government removed LPG subsidies for the sector. Businesses are now required to use commercial-grade LPG cylinders, which cost between RM65 and RM70 for 14 kilogrammes, more than double the previous subsidised rate of RM27 to RM30.
“Whether we like it or not, laundry operators now have no choice but to adjust prices,” Hafizul said, adding that most operators are unable to absorb the increased cost on their own.
The subsidy removal, implemented under Ops Gasak beginning 1 May 2025, has raised concerns within the industry, with some operators warning that continued pressure on operating costs could lead to business closures. Hafizul noted that businesses using up to five cylinders per month will experience a significant financial impact.
The association is currently engaging with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living to advocate for a policy review, citing the strain on Bumiputera-owned laundromats and the potential knock-on effects on regular consumers.
The price changes come as part of wider cost-of-living challenges faced by Malaysian households, where essentials and services continue to reflect upward price pressures in response to subsidy rationalisation and inflationary trends.
(Source: NST)
Samuel writes about personal finance and financial news, focusing on how banking updates, policies, and promotions affect everyday money decisions. He enjoys making complicated financial topics easier to follow. Outside of writing, he spends his time watching TV shows and occasionally convincing himself he will only watch one episode.
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