MELAKA: Two frying machines, a chiller and built-in storage, all packed into a battery-powered mobile kitchen, are helping a young couple give the humble nasi goreng business a modern makeover.
For Izzuan Mustapa and his wife Suzana Abdul Hadi, the customised set-up is part of their effort to build their own business selling freshly fried rice at Taman Tasik Utama in Ayer Keroh.
Inspired by Suzana’s younger sister, who runs a similar business with her husband in Batu Pahat, the couple decided to venture into the food business themselves.
Suzana, who recently left her job as a staff nurse, said she had always been interested in business and wanted to devote more time to her family.
“I felt it was time for us to focus on our own family,” she said in an interview.
The couple, who operate under the name Street Local Nasi Goreng, hope to expand their venture one day, possibly through a food truck or even a franchise.
However, they said starting a small business comes with its own financial and administrative challenges, particularly when it comes to obtaining the necessary licences.
Izzuan said their application took about a month to process, requiring several follow-ups despite being told it would take about two weeks.
Suzana hopes that the next state government will consider providing incentives for micro-businesses to help ease their operating costs.
“Most small traders start from zero. Our cash flow is still unstable, and whatever we earn today often goes back into buying ingredients and preparing for the next day’s business,” she added.
Young satay seller Thye Wei Sheng, 30, who has been in the trade for 12 years, also shared his hopes for a more supportive business environment.
Having started by helping his family at a young age, Thye learnt the trade from his father before adapting the recipe to create his own version of the popular grilled skewers.
With his parents and siblings occasionally lending a hand, he wants to continue growing the business in Machap Baru New Village.
He hopes the next state government will provide more opportunities for small traders, including access to microloans and a simpler licensing process.
“I hope more tourists will come to Machap Baru as this will bring more business to local traders. I also hope the new state government will continue to promote and preserve the village so more people can discover what it has to offer,” he said.
For young people looking to venture into business, Thye said: “You must be patient and not give up easily. It takes time to build a business, so you have to persevere.”
