Street-smart vendor Chua Siong Chen shares culinary journey from Kapit to Kuching

Chua barbequing a batch of chicken wings at his makeshift stall.

By Wilfred Pilo

KUCHING, Oct 15: Chua Siong Chen, a 35-year-old vendor, is part of the new generation of street-smart entrepreneurs who have migrated from small towns in search of better opportunities.

Hailing from the riverine town of Kapit, Chua moved to Kuching 15 years ago to pursue economic prospects and worked in various jobs before finding his niche in the culinary world.

Chua shared with DayakDaily that he used to work for a food vendor, where he learned the ins and outs of the culinary business, which he believes provides a steady income.

“My ex-employer’s simple philosophy was that no matter what profession you have, everyone needs to eat. If you can serve good food at affordable prices, people will come to you,” Chua explained.

Barbequed chicken wings ready to be served to customers.

With this mindset, Chua decided to focus on selling barbequed chicken wings, pork satay, and chicken satay at a local eatery.

Over the years, he has become well-known for his delicious dishes along Jalan Kempes.

“I’ve been doing this for a decade, and now my regular patrons just signal what they want, and I understand their orders,” Chua laughed.

He credits his former employer for teaching him the art of marinating and barbecuing meat over charcoal fire, skills that have earned him a loyal following.

Chua is passionate about traditional cooking techniques, especially the unique flavor that comes from grilling over charcoal.

“I believe that barbecuing this way offers a taste that technology can’t replicate. Fresh ingredients and a simple approach are key,” he noted.

Chua’s street barbeque stall which serves chicken wings and satay.

Despite today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, Chua prefers to keep things simple in his business.

“We may use technology to promote our food, but good food doesn’t need high-tech gadgets — it needs fresh ingredients and consistent flavor,” he added.

With his wife by his side, Chua is optimistic about the future, even as competition grows. He hopes to preserve the tradition of local street food and ensure it remains appreciated by future generations.

Chua’s barbequed chicken wings are sold for RM2.80 each, with pork satay at 90 sen and chicken satay at 80 sen.

His stall operates at Yeow Kee Kopitiam on Jalan Kempes, daily from 12pm to 6pm except on Mondays. For more information, call 016 855 0805. — DayakDaily