In the quiet streets of Bandar Baru, Sungai Petani, a small food stall stands as a beacon of community care and affordability.
Sells RM1.20 Nasi Lemak for years
The stall, “Nasi Lemak Pisang Mak Som,” run by Kalsom Ahmad (transliteration), a 66-year-old single mother, has been a local favorite for over a decade.
Despite rising costs, the Mak Cik has kept the price of her nasi lemak at an incredibly low RM1.20, a testament to her commitment to feeding her neighbors without straining their pockets.
She told Sin Chew Daily that her day starts at 2:30 am, preparing ingredients and cooking the nasi lemak with her son, Naim Mustafa (transliteration).
Despite her age and waning strength, she still manages to sell about 400 packets a day.
Uses double-layered banana leaves
Her dedication to traditional methods is evident in her insistence on using double-layered banana leaves for packaging, preserving the aroma and freshness of the food.
If banana leaves are unavailable, she prefers not to operate, underlining her commitment to quality.
Read also: M’sian Woman Disappointed Purchasing RM1 Nasi Lemak That Literally Looks & Tastes Like Nasi Impit
After a divorce when her son was just three years old, Kalsom moved to Sri Putra Garden in Sungai Petani for a better life.
‘Life is not easy’
She has worked various jobs, from a cleaning staff to a factory worker, experiencing significant pay cuts along the way.
This tough journey led her to start her own business, where she now stands proud, with her son by her side, who has inherited her culinary skills and dedication.
Naim, who graduated from Mara Technical College in Automotive Studies and worked in car repair, chose to return from Australia from his working holiday to help his mother and continue the legacy of serving the community.
This mother-son duo symbolizes resilience and a deep-rooted commitment to ensuring no neighbor goes hungry, all while keeping prices low.
Their story is not just about food; it’s about community, perseverance, and the enduring spirit of a mother’s love.
