Factors of Increasing Cost of Living Among Households: A Case Study in Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia

Abstrak

Besut is one of the districts in Terengganu, Malaysia, populated with a relatively high number of low-income households. The increase in the cost of living needs to be addressed to avoid an unnecessary burden on low-income households. The continuous increase in the price of goods in recent times has greatly impacted households. Therefore, this study aims to examine the factors that influence the increase in the cost 
of living among households in Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia. The research methodology used was a quantitative method through a questionnaire instrument for 200 respondents living in Besut who come from B40, M40, and T20 groups. The data was analyzed using descriptive analysis and regression analysis. The results of the regression analysis show that the total expenditure factor is significant with the increase in the cost of living in Besut, Terengganu. This study found that the household's expenditure and lifestyle is the dominant factor in the increase in the cost of living. Too much spending without a plan and a lavish lifestyle will lead to an increasing cost of living and a decreasing quality of life. In conclusion, households need to plan and control their expenses and lifestyle so that the cost-of-living problem 
can be overcome.