Ultimate Char Koay Teow Showdown: Judges Struggle to Choose the Best!

PENANG is inviting its famous street hawkers to step into the digital world. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow is encouraging them to join online food delivery platforms and showcase their cooking skills on social media. This was announced during the second Penang Char Koay Teow cooking competition, a lively event organized by the local residents.

Char koay teow is often considered Penang’s ultimate street food, outshining other local favorites. The competition, which started two years ago, drew fierce contestants. Judges faced a tough job deciding the winners due to the high quality of the dishes.

It’s said that mastering char koay teow requires both agility and a keen sense of smell to know when the noodles are just right.

Winnie Ong, 53, who has sold char koay teow for three years at Swee Kong Coffee Shop in Pulau Tikus, won first place. She can sell up to 200 plates on busy weekends, impressing the judges with her skills and taste.

Second place went to Chin Foh Shin, 50, who has over a decade of experience at Hobe Restaurant. Khoo Kay Keat, 47, claimed third place with his stall, Kong Long Char Koay Teow, in Ayer Itam.

Chow highlighted that the contest isn’t just about cooking; it’s a way for hawkers to gain recognition. He noted that food is the heart of a city and that char koay teow symbolizes Penang’s culinary spirit.

“Every hawker contributes to our rich food culture,” he said, praising their dedication. Such efforts have cemented Penang’s reputation as a food paradise, a source of pride for all Penangites.

According to a recent survey by the Malaysian Institute of Economic Research, about 70% of Malaysians are now ordering food online, showing a significant shift toward digital dining. This trend presents a huge opportunity for street food vendors to reach a wider audience.

As the culinary landscape changes, embracing digital platforms can help hawkers thrive. With growing interest in traditional food and local flavors, the future looks bright for Penang’s culinary gems.



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char koay teow, penang, cm, chow, hawkers