A recent discussion on Threads has sparked a debate after a user expressed frustration over the growing number of scalpers reselling Sambal Nyet Bilis at inflated prices.
According to the user, some resellers are allegedly selling the popular sambal for as much as RM25 per bottle, far above its original price. The Sambal Nyet Bilis is originally sold at RM15.90 per bottle.
“There’s only so much I can do”
The situation became even more heated when the user questioned whether entrepreneur and celebrity chef Khairul Aming was aware of the issue, or simply choosing not to do anything about it.
“Is Khairul Aming aware of this, or does he simply not care?” the user wrote, before acknowledging that scalpers will naturally exist as long as there is demand.
The post eventually caught Khairul Aming’s attention, and instead of responding angrily, he offered a straightforward explanation. According to him, once the product has already been purchased and is in someone else’s hands, there is only so much he can do.
“The Sambal Nyet Bilis are in his hands, what else can I do? Do you expect me to go knocking on his door? I don’t even know who the scalper is,” he replied.
His response essentially highlighted a reality that many businesses face: once a product is sold, controlling what happens in the secondary market can be difficult.
Khairul Aming also appeared open to criticism, but challenged the commenter to go a step further by suggesting a practical solution.
“Tell me what can I do, and I’ll try using your solution,” he added.
Rather than dismissing the complaint outright, his response showed he was willing to consider ideas, as long as the criticism was backed by a workable solution.
Whether Khairul Aming’s response is convincing or not, the scalper issue clearly shows how tricky it can be to control a product once it reaches resellers.
Do you think brands should do more to stop scalpers from hiking up prices?
Also read: “Beyond the plate” – Khairul Aming Explains Why Rembayung Charges RM15.90 for ‘Telur Mata Kicap’
