Fauziah Isnin, 57, is a third-generation hawker. Together with her son and daughter, they operate Rendang Nation at the One Punggol Hawker Centre.
Rendang Nation is known for its unique blend of spices and the art of slow-fire cooking. Their rendang has an old-school taste that reminds diners of the kampung days.
In an interview for DBS’ Hawker Stories series, Fauziah’s son, Ziyan, said the family aims to grow the business while preserving a slice of Singapore’s culinary culture for the next generation.
Describing Rendang Nation as an embodiment of the old and new, Ziyan hopes they can “unite communities over a shared love for good food.”
This echoes what Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said at the official opening of the integrated community and lifestyle hub One Punggol on Sunday (Sept 8).
“Singapore is a little red dot, but there is something distinctive about the different parts of our island. It is the places we grew up with and are familiar with, the shared experiences we have”, said PM Wong.
“In the end, it is not about hardware and infrastructure; it is about the bonds we have with one another that contribute to our sense of home”.
PM Wong praised the Punggol community for its ground-up initiatives.
Citing the example of the rooftop farm at One Punggol, he said that 30 volunteers signed up to plant vegetables. The produce will be sent to the nearby Fo Guang Shan temple, which will cook and share the food with vulnerable families.
PM Wong also mentioned Punggol Green, an unused walkway under the LRT viaduct that was converted into a park with fitness corners and playgrounds, following a consultation by the People’s Association and its grassroots leaders with the community.
‘I never imagined this day would come’ – Early birds flock to opening of Punggol’s Teck Lee LRT station as early as 4am
editor@asiaone.com
