Amid rising prices, Stall No. 22 at Kenyalang Food Centre stays affordable with RM4 noodles

KUCHING (Jan 14): At the Kenyalang Food Centre, Stall No. 22 serves customers with comforting bowls of noodles at only RM4.

The stall is run by Lee Say Moi, 65, from Siburan, who has been in the food business for about 10 years.

The noodle stall is her only source of income, and she continues to manage it on her own every day.

She told The Borneo Post that previously, she operated the stall together with her husband, who is now 70 years old, and despite the challenges of age and responsibility, she continues to open her stall as early as 5am to keep her livelihood going.

“I used to run this stall with my husband, but now he is unable to walk so I manage it alone,” she said.

She has one adult son, who has chosen to pursue a different career path, and currently lives with her sister and husband at Kenyalang Park.

Her sister also runs a food stall nearby—highlighting that the food centre is not only a place of work, but one of family support.

“My son is not interested in taking over the stall. But my sister has a food stall nearby selling Sarawak laksa as well,” she said.

What sets Stall No. 22 apart is its affordability. All noodle dishes, such as kolo mee, lou shu fen, kueh tiaw, and beehoon are sold at just RM4 per plate. Wontons are also available at only RM4.50 per plate.

At a time when rising ingredient costs have forced many hawkers to increase prices, Lee has chosen to keep hers affordable.

“My intention is simple. I want to ensure everyone can afford and enjoy a proper meal. I just want people to be able to eat and enjoy the food. Keeping prices low helps customers feel comfortable returning.

“I also open this stall every day unless an emergency arises,” she said. The stall operates from Monday to Saturday from 5am to 5pm, and from 5am to 12pm on Sundays.

Behind each bowl served is more than a meal; it is a story of a woman who continues to work quietly not for profit alone, but for independence and the simple joy of feeding others.

The Borneo Post had the chance to savour two bowls of kolo mee on Monday morning at Stall No. 22, which were flavourful and generously portioned.