Introduction

SINGAPORE: Meet Ng Khai Choon, a hawker with a unique twist! This dedicated food stall owner in Chinatown pays an astonishingly low rental fee of just $1 and operates his stall solely for two hours on Saturdays and Sundays. What’s even more commendable is his passion for serving delicious food that resonates with Singaporeans.

Mr. Ng's Unique Situation

Mr. Ng secured this remarkable tender back in September 2022 and commenced his operations in January 2023. His story has gained traction in local media, with features in AsiaOne and The New Paper shedding light on his unconventional approach, especially while many other hawkers grapple with skyrocketing rental costs and the challenges of running a food business in a competitive market.

Incredible Rental Fee

In an industry where stall rents can soar to nearly $10,000, Ng's $1 rental has sparked excitement and admiration among the public. He cleverly balances his time by also running another stall at Hong Lim Food Centre, where he operates more regularly and faces a higher rental charge.

Simple and Enticing Menu

Despite the brevity of his operating hours, Mr. Ng has chosen to keep his menu simple and focused, offering just four enticing dishes: aloo gobi chapati, lentil soup, mixed salad, and mutton ribs soup. Diners from all corners of Singapore laud his mutton ribs soup for its incredible flavors and tender meat that “falls off the bone,” making it a standout item that keeps patrons coming back for more.

Customer Experience

Visitors to his stall rave about the immaculate cleanliness of his kitchen, and many comment on Mr. Ng's affable nature, calling him both “friendly” and “funny.” One enthusiastic customer even took to Instagram to share their experience, describing Mr. Ng's Indian-style Soup Kambing as the best in Singapore, highlighting how they can adjust the spice level according to their preference.

Challenges Faced

However, running a stall solo has its challenges. Despite displaying a “Help Wanted” sign for ten long months, Mr. Ng has struggled to find suitable help due to regulations restricting employment to Singaporeans and permanent residents. Still, he expresses no regrets about his situation; he tells AsiaOne, "Most importantly, I enjoy the job."

Public Response and Conclusion

The public response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many netizens congratulating him for turning a unique circumstance into a thriving business. “He’s showing us how to make a fortune!” one commented, highlighting his savvy business calculations that keep his operation profitable despite the limited hours.

Mr. Ng’s story is not just about survival; it’s about passion, community, and the art of enjoying what you do while making it work in the bustling heart of Singapore. Could this be the blueprint for future hawkers? The recipe for success might just be simplicity, pleasure, and a dash of innovation!