Being in the hawker business for 15 years, Mr Ali, 40, is contented with working as a shop assistant at a humble Roti Prata stall in a food centre sandwiched between two HDB apartments in a food centre at Pipit Road.

 

Mr Ali started helping out his parents to sell Roti Prata at a school canteen when he was young. Going down the path that his parents had paved for him, Mr Ali decided to join the ‘simple food’ business by opening a stall in a hawker centre, first at the famed Old Airport Road Food Centre, where he used to sell fruits. Later, he moved on to sell Indian Muslim food which ranges from Roti Prata to Roti John.

 

Mr Ali is a cheerful and optimistic man. Despite the looming threats to hawker businesses and the concerns that the uniquely Singaporean heritage might be highly endangered, he often convey his contentment in a sophisticated way. When asked about his plans for the future, Mr Ali admits that he has had thoughts of doing another business and wants to be his own boss. Only time will tell as Mr Ali says he’s still in the planning process.

 

Location: Blk 89 Pipit Road, #01-127