A humble nasi lemak vendor in Melaka is making headlines for how low he sells per packet for close to two decades.
But for Anuar Md Sani, his main goal in selling nasi lemak at such affordable prices is not to make a profit, but to ensure no one goes hungry.
Maintained 50 sen price for 20 years
Speaking to China Press, Anuar said the stall, located at Jalan Bukit Tembakau in Umbai, was first operated by his parents, where each packet of nasi lemak was sold at 30 sen.
When he took the helm, Anuar raised the price to 50 sen and kept it that way for the next 20 years. As for beverages, they’re sold for only RM1.
He added that despite rising costs of ingredients such as coconut milk, rice, and sugar, he has no plans to increase prices as he wants to ease the financial burden of villagers, fishermen, and nearby workers.
Although profits are low, I’m able to sell over 200 packets of nasi lemak daily and up to 400 packets on weekends, which is enough to sustain operations and pay my seven workers.
“As long as I can still manage the costs, I will continue to maintain prices. After all, doing business is not just about making a quick buck, but about earning long-term support from customers,” he said.
Aside from nasi lemak, the stall also offers nasi lemak beras basmati at RM2.50 per serving, along with various dishes to go with it.
It’s open daily from 7am to 3pm except on Fridays.
Shock & awe from visitors
Anuar also shared that he often gets shocked responses from customers who can hardly believe their eyes and ears when they realise he sells nasi lemak for only 50 sen.
“The locals here are already used to the price, but those from elsewhere are often amazed, especially in an era where prices are rising across the board, making 50 sen nasi lemak almost impossible to find,” he added.
Anuar said although each packet is palm-sized, he isn’t stingy with the ingredients, adding that customers can have a full meal for less than RM5.
READ ALSO:
