Page 66 - Our Hawker Stories

On a sunny Saturday afternoon, after my enrichment
class, my father, brother, and I made our way to Bukit
Canberra Hawker Centre for lunch. As we strolled past
the colourful rows of stalls, something golden and crispy
caught my eye - Maxwell Chicken Rice.

“I’d like the chicken cutlet rice, please!” I chirped.

The smell of freshly fried chicken filled the air, making
my mouth water. Yet, what truly amazed me was the
person behind the counter. The hawker preparing my
food was an elderly auntie who looked to be over sixty!
She moved slowly but carefully, cooking each dish with
steady hands and a focused smile.

When I took my first bite, I was blown away by how
delicious it was. It was crunchy on the outside, soft and
juicy inside. Curious and grateful, I walked back to the Hawker culture is not only about affordable food. It
stall and said, “Auntie, how do you cook so well even at is about real people who serve with love, keeping
your age?” Singapore’s food stories alive. A simple plate of rice
taught me to be more thankful and that sometimes, the
She laughed kindly and replied, “I just love cooking for greatest lessons come from the humblest places.
others. It brings me joy to see people enjoy their food.”

Her words made my heart feel warm.
“Auntie’s chicken cutlet wasn’t just
I realised something important. Many hawkers like crispy and juicy — it was a taste of love,
Auntie work hard every day, even when they feel tired tradition, and the quiet strength behind
or achy. They put in so much effort and love, yet many of every hawker’s smile.”
us forget to say thank you.

That day, I learned that hawker food is more than just Ian Oliver Huang
a tasty meal. It is made with care, tradition, and heart. P5 Perseverance
Endeavour Primary School

62 Our Hawker Stories