Article Search By : Mrs. Marziati Md Din, Internal Audit Division, UPM

Source : Utusan Malaysia

The issue regarding the price of chicken rice sold at RM26 per pack by the mother of a well-known personality has sparked various reactions from the public. Some consider the price too high for an ordinary dish, while others believe that traders have the right to determine prices based on operating costs, location, quality, and the value offered to customers.

In the Islamic economy, the main foundation in buying and selling is mutual consent between the seller and the buyer. Allah SWT states in Surah al-Nisa', verse 29, that trade should be conducted by mutual consent and not through unlawful means.

This means that a transaction is considered valid when the buyer knows the offered price, understands what is being purchased, and makes a decision without coercion. Islam provides room for traders to set prices based on market conditions as long as there are no elements of fraud, manipulation, or oppression.

Islam does not view the issue of pricing solely from the perspective of being expensive or cheap. What is more important is that the pricing process is conducted transparently and fairly. Traders can earn profits through business acumen, skills, and the value provided to customers.

This can be seen through the story of Urwah al-Bariqi RA, who was given one dinar by the Prophet SAW to buy a sheep. With his business expertise, he managed to make a profit from the transaction. The Prophet then prayed for blessings in his business.

Nevertheless, market freedom does not mean traders can take advantage. Islam rejects actions such as fraud, monopolies, hoarding of goods, or charging exorbitant prices that burden consumers.

In reality, the price of a product does not depend solely on the cost of raw materials. Traders need to consider various factors such as premises rental, employee wages, utilities, transportation, marketing, and other operating costs. Factors like location, brand, and customer experience also influence the value of a product.

However, Islam still reminds traders not to make profit their sole objective. High profits are not wrong if obtained honestly, but profits derived from exploitation and oppression contradict the values of justice in Islam.

At the same time, consumers are free to make choices based on their affordability and the value received. If the price of a product is deemed unworthy, consumers can choose other alternatives.

Date of Input: 31/07/2026 | Updated: 31/07/2026 | muhammad.isam