With the global economic situation not looking to improve anytime soon, many have been forced to tighten their wallets and stomachs in order to get by another day amid soaring living costs.
However, a vendor in Penang has lent a helping hand to those struggling to feed themselves by selling chicken rice for only RM3 per plate.
Penang vendor sells RM3 chicken rice
This humble chicken rice stall is being run by 50-year-old Ong Eng Kim at Macalister Road, who has been selling each plate for only RM3 — a 40% decrease from the original RM5 price.
Speaking to Sin Chew Daily, Ong said he has been maintaining the RM3 price since October last year and has seen a steady stream of customers ever since.
“Since this isn’t something temporary, many customers have come to my stall as a form of support.
“A lot of customers have also asked how I managed to carry on with such low prices, and I told them that although I earn less, I’m able to make up for it in volume,” he said.
Ong explained that previously he was only able to sell out 7-8 roasted chickens in a day, but now sells around 20 roasted chickens.
“For every roasted chicken sold, I earn around RM6 in profit. If the public response continues to be positive, I might be able to sell 25 roasted chickens in a day.”
‘I don’t want them to be hungry’
Ong said that he sold chicken rice for only RM3 per plate after observing that many customers had fallen on hard times in the post-pandemic period.
Although the pandemic has passed, many are still struggling financially. And though I don’t earn much with the RM3 chicken rice, the most important thing is that I’m able to help others by filling their stomachs.
He also added that the RM3 price is only applicable for locals while tourists will have to pay RM5 per plate. For those who do not bring their own containers for takeaways, an additional RM1 will be charged.
Ong’s stall is open every Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to around 1pm or 2pm, and it is closed on Sundays.
Another chicken rice vendor in Perak was praised for keeping the RM3.60 price despite earning less than what he used to:
