PETALING JAYA: Shopping mall operators are distressed over
what they called a “triple blow” to the industry with the latest announcement
of the increase in electricity tariffs.

Malaysian Shopping Mall Association and Highrise Complex
Management president H.C. Chan said after the announcement of the Goods and
Services Tax and the proposed increase in assessment by City Hall, the
electricity tariff hike was the latest blow.

“Electricity is the single largest expenditure for shopping
malls. This will definitely impact the competitiveness of our shopping malls
and our status as a global shopping destination,” Chan said.

The 16.85% increase in tariff for the industrial category, he
said, was too “steep”, adding that shopping mall operators would have to pass
down the increased costs to the consumers, which would lead to inflation.

Fomca secretary-general Datuk Paul Selvaraj said more
measures would have to be carried out to educate the public on energy
conservation.

“As the power tariff is going to be increased, we urge the
Government to do more and work with non-governmental bodies to educate the
public on how they can save energy.

“The people need to be informed about the kinds of
energy-saving equipment they can use and about better usage of electricity at
home,” he said.

Islamic Consumer Association of Malaysia chief activist Datuk
Nadzim Johan Johar said it was against the tariff hike as the public was
already burdened with other price increases.

“The quality of the service must also be improved to ensure
consumers’ satisfaction and that they don’t experience power cuts.”