The price hike is a burden to many of the country's consumers, NewStraitsTimes reports.

"Processed chicken is being sold at RM8.20 per kilogramme in the town area, and higher at RM8.70 in rural areas. Usually, it is a difference of only 10 to 20 sen. Now the difference is too high.

"I hope the relevant authority will investigate and take immediate action since the festive season is coming," Fatimah Abdullah, a consumer, said.

Ms Abdullah hoped that traders would maintain a consistent price for goods and not simply hike up prices.

A trader, Ismail Aziz, said that he needed to raise the price from RM7.80 per kg to RM8.20 per kg over the past five days as his supplier had marked up the price.

"I am not sure for how long the marked-up price would remain as the price of chicken has been fluctuating lately," he said.

"Usually, the price of chicken would be lower during Ramadan. Anyway, consumers do not have to worry as the price of chicken will be controlled for the festive season, during which the traders will probably buy at RM7.50 per kg from suppliers," he said.

Meanwhile, Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism (Muar branch) head, Mohd Basha Abidin Ali, said his department would investigate the matter.

"We will go to several locations to ascertain the claim before we proceed with further action," he said.