PriceChecker: for monitoring and reporting ceiling prices of raw cooking materials in Malaysia

In Malaysia, the prices of essential raw cooking materials such as sugar, rice, and flour are regulated by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) to ensure affordability. However, many consumers struggle to access accurate and timely ceiling price information, making them vulnerable to unethical pricing practices. The lack of a centralized and user-friendly platform for reporting such violations limits the effectiveness of regulatory enforcement and reduces consumer trust in the market. To address these issues, this project developed PriceChecker, a mobile application designed to empower consumers by providing real-time pricing data and enabling them to report violations directly to the authorities. The aim of this project is to improve consumer awareness and support regulatory enforcement through digital solutions. This was achieved by identifying user requirements, designing and developing a mobile app that integrates ceiling price information and violation reporting, and evaluating its usability using the System Usability Scale (SUS). The development process followed the Mobile Application Development Life Cycle (MADLC) methodology, which includes the phases of identification, design, development, prototyping, testing, and maintenance. Key features of the PriceChecker app include barcode scanning for price verification, a reporting form with photo and location upload, real-time price updates by region, and an admin panel to track and manage user-submitted reports. The application enhances market transparency, promotes fair trade practices, and contributes to stronger consumer protection.