60-YO Nam Seng Noodle House Has Closed Due to COVID-19 & Leasing Issues

It’s always a sad day when a homegrown establishment closes its doors.

It’s all the more saddening when you realise how the pandemic’s behind its closure – a notion that has been particularly rampant of late.

60-YO Popular Wonton Mee Stall Has Closed Due to COVID-19 & Leasing Issues

91-year-old Mdm Leong Yeut Meng had been selling wonton mee for nearly 60 years.

As the founder of Nam Seng Noodle House, she was reported to have been one of Singapore’s oldest hawkers, if not the oldest.

Such was her contribution to the local food industry.

However, it all ended in July this year when the pandemic, as well as leasing issues, proved too much to bear.

Left with no other choice, she shut down her store at Far East Square.

According to CNA, demand for her wonton mee tapered off due to the pandemic.

Subsequent work-from-home measures also did not help.

As a result, her business “dropped drastically overnight”.

Leasing issues also contributed to her decision. In an interview with CNA, she said: “When I started renting there 20 years ago, the people (building management) were nice. Who knew that they’d change this year and become difficult to talk to?”

In other words, people have changed.

It should be noted that up to the day of closure, Leong never let go of her “make wonton by hand” policy.

Such a practice is rare and far between in today’s age, and her wonton mee will be sorely missed.

But It May Not Be The End Yet

Despite the closure, Leong is insistent on keeping the Nam Seng brand alive.

“I’ve worked for so many years. My focus and dedication these last 60 years have been for my brand. How can I bear to let it go?” she said.

As such, there may yet remain a day when Nam Seng Noodle House is no longer a mere historic mention…

But a fully-functional, homegrown establishment that dishes up delicious hand-made wonton once again.

“We’ll take our time, and we’ll find a new place. We’ll make a comeback. I’ll inform all of you through the newspapers, the Internet and telephone when we open once again.”

Well, all hope’s not lost then.

As such, we’ll be keeping our fingers crossed for a much-anticipated comeback.

Can’t wait.

Pandemic

Since the emergence of the pandemic, numerous businesses in Singapore and around the world have been forced to close their doors for good.

Robinson’s was the latest victim, having closed down all their physical outlets in Singapore after 162 years of operations.

“We have enjoyed success over the years, and it has been an honour for Robinsons to serve the Singapore market. I am grateful for the dedication of our team, and for the support shown by our customers over the years,” said Robinsons’ senior general manager, Mr Danny Lim.

Featured Image: Google Maps