In an unexpected twist of fate, Leong Kee (Klang) Bak Kut Teh, a well-loved Singaporean institution located at 251 Geylang Road, faced suspension by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) on January 3 due to severe health violations, just hours before it was celebrated with a prestigious Singapore Prestige Brand Award.

The restaurant, which has been serving delectable Bak Kut Teh for 60 years, was slapped with a one-day license suspension after accumulating a whopping 12 demerit points over the past year. Besides the suspension, the eatery was fined $800 for not keeping its premises infestation-free and failing to provide essential hygiene supplies like toilet paper and soap in its facilities.

In a bizarre coincidence, on the same day that the suspension was announced, the restaurant was honored among 26 brands with the Singapore Prestige Brand Award at a ceremony attended by Minister for Digital Development and Information, Josephine Teo. The recognition is a testament to Leong Kee's popularity; it has been a hit on social media platforms like TikTok, where users share their love for the restaurant's signature dishes.

But the news didn’t end there—Leong Kee was not the only establishment in Geylang facing scrutiny. The SFA also suspended Kim San Leng Food Centre at 306 Geylang Road for similar infractions, including 12 demerit points and a fine of $1,100 for poor sanitary conditions. However, unlike Leong Kee, this coffeeshop was not celebrated with an award.

The SFA has reiterated that food business operators must adhere to strict hygiene and maintenance standards to ensure the safety and satisfaction of their patrons. The call for improved practices serves as a reminder that even beloved institutions must maintain high standards to thrive in the competitive food scene.

As the community reacts to this tug-of-war between recognition and responsibility, one can’t help but wonder: will Leong Kee's recent accolades overshadow its health concerns? Or will the restaurant rise to the occasion and rectify its failures for the sake of its loyal customers? Keep watching this space for updates!