Changing Lifestyle

The petrol price hike of 78 cents per litre already affected the lifestyle of many.

Visited the petrol station twice this week and the petrol price hike shows clearly on the receipts. Have to forked out extra RM50 for petrol in one week and it will be that way until the end of the year. I hoped. The government promised the petrol price per litre will stays until end of the year. This means by 1st Jan 2009, we might get a new year "gift" if the petrol price keep on rising. Hope this time around they will keep their word.

Previously they say no price increase after the general election but what happens? They raised the petrol price from $1.92 to $2.70 per litre.

But it seems on the ground, the people are shouting out loud for the government to review the price hike. Not everyone has a fat pay cheque. One thing for sure, our usual lifestyle has to be changed. But hoped the government too will act wisely. Those non essential projects, mega of not, should be postponed or even scrapped. Some of them includes the various corridors projects and the National Service Training Program.

Those with babies fed with infant formulas will be experiencing the pinch in feeding their babies. Price per tin will be on the rise. It will be worse for those going for premium infant formulas.

Those with school going children already got the news- the bus fare has already been raised, with or without the authorities permission. The price of food at the school canteen, if it is not increased, the servings will be reduced. Maybe the children should pack their tea breaks or lunches from home.

Those who frequents the local coffeeshops and mamaks for their regular cuppa of coffee and teh tarik will need to reduce their visits. But at least it is still very much cheaper than starbucks or coffee bean.

Crowds during lunch breaks especially in major cities and towns be prepared to pay more for a serving of the local curry mee, asam laksa, prawn mee, char kueh tiaw etc, etc. Unless of course you opts for instant noodles. But then price of instant noodles had also increased.

If you don't have medical insurance, it is not the best of time to fall sick. If you really need to be admitted, the government hospitals will be a cheaper option even though you may be complaining about the service.

For those who drives to work or for leisure, there is a need to plan your destination well. Sometimes it it much cheaper to use tolled roads or highways to avoid burning more fuel in congested roads. Carpooling will be a good option now even though we need to do some adjustments to accommodate other fellow passengers. Public transport is another option but be prepared to wake up earlier and reach home later. Also prepared to be wet - either due to the heat or drenched by rain because the public transport connectivity is still much to be desired.

There was a demonstration in Kuala Lumpur on Friday by thousands of those objecting the petrol price hike. From reports it won't be the last and a big one expected on July 5.