Page 88 - Our Hawker Stories

The Singapore Hawkers’ Lives

From breakfast to dinner, the hawker centre will always
have you covered with food. The plethora of choices
always makes us wonder: What should I eat?

Ever since I was young, my grandmother has brought
me to Teck Ghee Square, a place constantly filled with
chatter and culinary masterpieces. When it undergoes
renovation, I feel quite downhearted — I would not be
able to eat the food there anymore. But still, it would
eventually reopen about a week later.

My grandmother would take me to a chicken rice stall
(Xiang Kee Chicken Rice), which has always been my
favourite. Having not spoken to the uncle there for a while,
we went to say hello. After the major renovations, Uncle
Lim began living near the stall for added convenience.
With a smile always on his face, he dedicates himself to I filled my stomach after being famished, feeling
his superb craftsmanship, never once frowning. completely satisfied by the delicious yet affordable meal.
The act of purchasing the meal also helped support the
Uncle Lim always tells children, “Work hard, as business elderly hawkers. Despite the stress, Uncle Lim pushes on
is tough.” Hearing that, I realised the daily struggles and stays cheerful, overcoming every challenge. He is an
hawkers face, especially as age and financial concerns authentic hawker — strong both physically and mentally.
begin to take their toll. Nonetheless, he remains strong
and never gives up. Hawkers truly are our unsung heroes, always providing
diverse and affordable food.
We supported him by buying some chicken rice. Upon
receiving my food, the aroma overpowered all other
smells, reaching its full potential. As I took a bite, the “Uncle Lim’s chicken rice wasn’t just tasty — it
culinary magic truly revealed itself. The flavour of the showed me that behind every great hawker
tender, soft chicken exploded in my mouth. Combined
with the fragrance of the rice and the well-seasoned meal is a story of strength, sacrifice, and heart.”
soup, the meal was overwhelmingly fantastic.

Koh Yong De, Gabriel
P6.1
North Spring Primary School

84 Our Hawker Stories