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[image: 1781071314796-cement-price.jpg] Miri and Kuching now lead the nation in cement price increases, with annual hikes of 7.5% and 7.4% respectively — the highest in Malaysia, according to the latest DOSM data. The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) released its Special Release for Building and Structural Works for May 2026, showing average cement prices across Malaysia rose from RM23.04 per 50kg bag in May 2024 to RM25.95 in May 2026. But Sarawaks two largest cities saw the biggest jumps. Miri recorded the highest year-on-year increase at 7.5%, with Kuching close behind at 7.4%. Nationwide, the year-on-year range was just 1.0% to 7.5%. Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin noted that cement prices also rose month-on-month across all regions, increasing between 0.2% and 2.1% in May alone. Other construction materials are not spared either: Steel prices rose 0.1% to 1.3% month-on-month nationwide, with Sibu and Miri among the higher increases Sand prices increased up to 9.7% in some areas, with Sibu recording a 3.7% jump Aggregate prices climbed 0.3% to 4.7% nationwide The Building Cost Index (BCI) confirmed the broader trend, with Sarawak recording month-on-month increases of 0.1% to 1.1% across all building categories. At the national level, Ordinary Portland cement now averages RM25.95 per 50kg bag, while steel bars sit at RM3,517.50 per metric tonne. For homeowners planning renovations and developers with ongoing projects, these numbers mean real cost pressure ahead. Location: Kuching & Miri, Sarawak Source: DayakDaily / DOSM - https://dayakdaily.com/construction-costs-rise-as-miri-kuching-record-nations-steepest-cement-price-hikes/ What do you think?

Young working adults in Sarawak are scaling back Gawai celebrations this year, choosing meaningful family time over lavish gatherings as living costs continue to rise. With Gawai Dayak just around the corner, many young Sarawakians are rethinking how they celebrate. Interviews with working adults in their 20s reveal a common theme — budgets are tighter, priorities have shifted, but the spirit of togetherness remains strong. Location: Kuching, Sarawak Details: Junior civil engineer Valentine Mapan Jalan, 25, said his family’s celebration will be quieter this year as they prioritise elderly relatives’ well-being. “We don’t need extravagance to show our hospitality,” he said. Executive Irvina Joan, 24, noted rising fuel and daily expenses have limited her travel plans to visit relatives in other areas. She credited government aid like STR, SARA, and SKAS for helping ease some financial pressure. Administrative assistant Lydia Hyginus, 25, said she cut her Gawai budget this year, skipping new family outfits. “Every moment during Gawai feels precious because it is one of the few times when my whole family can gather,” she said. Despite the tighter budgets, all three emphasised that the essence of Gawai — family reunions, shared meals, and cultural traditions — remains unchanged. Source: The Borneo Post Is your family planning a simpler Gawai this year? Share your thoughts below