Singapore’s Humble Treasure: A Heartwarming SDG 1 Nasi Lemak at Kedai Makan Muhajirin

Arriving in Singapore

In the early morning of April 5th, 2025, I landed in Singapore after a flight from Bangkok, Thailand. As soon as I arrived, I made my way to find a snooze lounge at Changi Airport’s Terminal 2. But to my disappointment, every sleeping seat was already taken by other travelers. Where was I going to sleep?

I continued wandering around the terminal, looking for a comfortable enough spot to lie down while waiting for dawn before heading to the city center. After walking for a while, I finally found a quiet corner where I could rest. I laid down and used my backpack as a pillow.

Cold—that was the first thing I felt when I decided to crash on Changi Airport’s carpeted floor. Thankfully, the airport was quiet, with no frequent announcements blaring through the speakers, so I managed to get a decent amount of sleep despite the minimal comfort.

Why I returned to Singapore?

Honestly, I could’ve taken a direct flight to Jakarta without having to spend hours in transit in Singapore. But there was something pulling me back—a deep longing for the nostalgic taste of a humble little shop that serves nasi lemak for just one Singapore dollar.

What? Nasi lemak for only 12,000 rupiah in this day and age?

Yes. That’s the one and only reason I chose to return to Singapore—for a simple plate of nasi lemak that holds so many memories.

Going to the Downtown

After dawn, I decided to leave Changi Airport and took the Downtown MRT line toward the Bayfront area. My goal was simple: to enjoy the early morning atmosphere around Gardens by the Bay, with the towering Supertree Grove standing tall in the distance while waiting for the breakfast time.

Ah, such a nostalgic feeling to be back in this place. There was a familiar warmth in the air, welcoming me home in a way. The morning breeze felt refreshing against my face, although, surprisingly, the humidity made Singapore’s weather feel quite stuffy—even early in the day.

I arrived at Gardens by the Bay around 7 in the morning. There, I saw how Singaporeans still made time for exercise—some were jogging, others were cycling, enjoying the wide-open spaces of the park.

It made me genuinely happy to witness that. Back in Jakarta, I rarely get the chance to do the same. The need to leave home very early to beat the endless traffic means there’s hardly any time left for a peaceful morning routine. Sad!

I continued my walk from Gardens by the Bay to Merlion Park, passing by the iconic ArtScience Museum and the durian-shaped Esplanade along the way.

To be honest, the weather in Singapore that morning felt quite uncomfortable for me. The humidity was intense, and I was sweating profusely. I couldn’t help but crave the cool relief of an air-conditioned space to escape the heat and humidity. It seems like it’s finally time to head to that humble little shop!

Kedai Makan Muhajirin. Oh, I’m so moved!

I quickly made my way on foot to Raffles Place MRT Station, and then continued my journey to Toa Payoh Station.

I don’t know why, but I really enjoy the atmosphere in the Toa Payoh area. It’s so calm, far from the usual noise, and it fits perfectly with my introverted nature. On both sides of the street, I saw apartment buildings inhabited by Singaporeans. From what I observed, many senior citizens live in this area, giving it a more peaceful and serene vibe.

And here it is, the shop I had missed so much. Located at Lorong 7 Toa Payoh, Block 20, Kedai Makan Muhajirin occupies one of the stalls in the food court at that block. I could easily spot the shop because of the long, busy line forming there.

My joy skyrocketed when I saw that the shop was still open, even after nearly two years since my last visit. And the best part? They were still selling nasi lemak for just 1 SGD! Incredible!

I ordered two servings of nasi lemak. First, a regular nasi lemak for 1 dollar, which came with rice, anchovies, a slice of egg, cucumber, and sambal. Second, a special nasi lemak with chicken for 4 dollars, which included chicken, salted fish, and a potato fritter.

I was deeply moved! The first bite of that nasi lemak almost brought me to tears. How is it possible that since 1987, they’ve kept the price of nasi lemak at just 1 SGD, all to help those in need? Truly, such a noble act!

I pray that this family is always blessed with good health and abundance, in return for their extraordinary kindness!

If you want to experience the warmth and kindness that might be hard to find elsewhere, Kedai Makan Muhajirin is a must-visit. Don’t forget to drop by if you are in Singapore!