UMNO AGM | Everyone is entitled to voice his or her opinion on the increase in the cost of living, but celebrities should be "extra careful" as they command a huge following.

Delegates met at the Umno general assembly at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) today said this to Malaysiakini when asked about the recent comment by songstress Sheila Majid about the rakyat being "squeezed" by the cost of living and the falling ringgit.

Those surveyed admitted that they do feel the pinch by the increase in prices, for instance, but said this could be overcome by working harder or taking on extra jobs.

Gua Musang Umno committee member Mastura Hatta, 31, said although Sheila had complained about the rising cost of living, Malaysia's economy was still stable, compared with that of some neighbouring countries.

"I do feel the pinch, but it's under control. I can maintain my (lifestyle) as I work. If one takes up two to three jobs, Insya Allah. No problem.

"It's all down to individual opinions. It's just that her opinion is heard by a larger number of people, because she's an artiste, unlike the grievances of villagers which go unheard," Mastura said.

Like Mastura, Siti Rohila Ishak, from Permatang Pauh, also feels the pinch, but "life has to go on."

"The rise in the cost of living is felt, but the GST (goods and services tax) does not give any impact. I have many children, and we buy things, we just pay what is stated on the receipt. It does not matter it is cheap or expensive," said the 50-year-old woman.

‘Others may follow’

Rohana Suleiman, the Puteri Umno chief of the Umno Felda Bukit Aping, said artistes like Shiela should exercise restraint when issuing statements.

"Artistes are seen as idols by many and they have to be careful with what they say as it will be followed by many."

Sungai Besar Umno committee member Mazatul Akmar Jalil said celebrities have the right to voice their opinions, but it is up to the powers that be, whether to "listen or not".

"Artistes are also humans, they can give opinions, but at the end of the day, it is up to the government to decide whether to pay heed to the grievances or not.

"The influence of artistes could also play a part, for instance, if the government views it positively, there could be changes."

Shiela has courted bouquets and brickbats over her tweet on Monday on the rising cost of living and the falling ringgit. Her tweet became viral.

It came just days after a fellow artiste, Fathia Latiff, also took to Twitter to voice support for former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad for being implicated in the forex losses suffered by Bank Negara Malaysia in the 1990s.