It isn’t a stretch to claim that trying to find a decent meal for less than RM10 is next to impossible, especially in metropolitan areas where offices are aplenty. As the economy struggles to recover post-Covid and with continued supply chain disruptions, restaurant operators have been left with no other choice but to raise prices in order to still make a profit.
Consequently, Malaysians are now having to find new ways to cope with the considerable increase to the cost of living crisis domestically, whether it be by preparing their own food at home or skipping a meal entirely.
Penang chicken rice stall sells meals at RM3
With that said, there are still eateries who are willing to compromise on their earnings, for the sake of providing accessible meals to the greater public during this time. And among them include Penang-based chicken rice stall owner Mr Ong Eng Kim, who is based out of Macalister Road.
According to local newspaper Sin Chew Daily, Ong has been selling his chicken rice for the humble sum of just RM3 to locals who frequent the area. In fact, customers can even chose between roast chicken, roast pork, or caramalised pork (charsiew), to have with their meal at the same price.
The 50-year-old explains that he first started the promotion back in October of last year, with many of his customers assuming that it would only be a limited time offer or marketing gimmick. But he surprised them by eventually making it a permanent part of his menu offerings.
Since then, sales of his chicken rice have increased substantially, with Ong able to sell as many as 20 chickens a day now, compared to seven or eight from before.
“After my customers realised that the RM3 chicken rice wasn’t temporary, they came back to support.” he said.
In fact, business has been so good that his stall often attracts a line, with people willing to wait their turn to purchase an affordably priced meal.
Slim profits, but a big heart
Ong said he was inspired to offer the promotion as after the Covid-19 pandemic, he came to realise that many people were facing financial difficulties. And while profit margins may be slim, he says that the quick turnover allows him to still earn a living and emphasises that the most important thing is that he can still help others.
“While the pandemic may be over, many people are still facing financial pressures. I am glad to provide them a meal for just RM3.”
“For each roast chicken sold, we make a profit of around RM6. If the response continues to remain positive, we may prepare up to 25 chickens for sale in the future.” he adds.
The promotional price of RM3 is only available to locals, with an added RM1 charge for those who want a takeaway container. Tourists on the other hand will be charged the full, but still affordable price of RM5.
If you wish to show your support, you may locate Mr Ong’s stall at the following details:
Address: Hong Kong Tea Garden (香港茶楼), 162 – 164, Jalan Macalister, 10400 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Operating hours: Monday to Saturday, 9.30am to 1.00pm or 2.00pm
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