The Price Catcher mobile application, developed by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, is proving to be a practical tool for consumers. By allowing users to compare prices of daily essentials, the app helps households manage their spending more effectively.
Comparing Prices Across Retail Locations
With Price Catcher, shoppers can check and compare the prices of essential goods across a wide range of supermarkets and retail outlets throughout Malaysia. The application offers a centralised source of price information, accessible via mobile devices.
Several supermarkets in Kuala Lumpur found that the prices listed in the app matched the actual prices in-store. This consistency highlights the app’s reliability as a real-time price reference.
Some Variations at Wet Markets
While supermarket prices remained consistent, slight variations were observed at certain wet markets, particularly in the late afternoon or evening. This is often due to traders reducing prices to clear out perishable stock. Despite this, the app still offers a helpful baseline for price comparisons in these markets.
Everyday Use in Practice
Zaid Zufri, a 42-year-old user, shared his experience at a supermarket in Taman Maluri.
“Before coming here, I checked the price of eggs and saw a tray selling for RM12.60, exactly what the app showed. Imported onions were only RM2.90 per kilogram, which is cheaper than other places,” he said.
For homemaker Syahida Ariffin, 45, the app has become an essential tool for tracking the prices of controlled items like cooking oil and chicken, which often fluctuate.
“Price Catcher shows the lowest prices at nearby supermarkets and wet markets. I always check the app first before deciding where to shop, and I can save between RM15 and RM30 each time,” she explained.
What the App Monitors
Since its launch in March 2019, Price Catcher has monitored the prices of 480 selected items. These include basic and controlled goods such as rice, sugar, flour, and meat. Price data is gathered by ministry officers from a variety of retail settings, including wet markets and major supermarket chains.
The app is part of the government’s wider effort to promote price transparency and empower consumers to make informed choices.
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