AFTER four years of her Nasi Paka business thriving, Yusliza Mohammed Noor never thought she would have to face the challenging moment of having the business deteriorate so badly due to the pandemic.
Her restaurant was constantly thronged by customers. Now Yusliza, who prefers to be called Yus, is faced with the bitter reality of closing her outlet. She has had to open a medium-sized stall as her business profit declined by about 80% from her original income.
"In the past, every lunchtime, the shop would be so full that people stood waiting for an empty table.
“The menu I introduced used the concept of simple, fast and most importantly, delicious meals. Usually, when customers place an order, we will fry the side dishes. So they will eat Nasi Paka hot.
"During the first year of the pandemic, I could still make it. However, in the second year, the situation worsened with my income reduced by up to 80%.
"I did not lay off workers and gave them full pay. But, when it got worse, I explained the real situation behind the business and it was up to them to make a choice.
"Out of six employees, I now only have two,” she said when met by Getaran at her stall located in Section 13, Shah Alam.
Belief in the Nasi Paka brand
Despite the challenges, Yus has never lost faith in the brand.
The name 'Paka' was chosen in honour of the place where Yus grew up, in Terengganu. Yus seemed to want to capture the memories and beauty of her childhood. She produced the recipe herself, which may be why customers find the sambal paired with the Nasi Paka so addicting.
Nasi Paka features several sets of dishes, namely Chicken priced at RM6.80, Catfish (RM6.80), Shrimp (RM13) and Talapia (RM13).
Not discouraged
So what made Yus decide to move out of the premises that had long served her livelihood? She smiled before admitting to having been depressed for two weeks.
"I did not get out of bed. I did not pick up any calls. My customers' Whatsapp messages went unanswered at the time. Fortunately, I was surrounded by fellow entrepreneurs who were also enthusiastic. Whatever happens, we have to continue the business.
"When the ship is about to sink, we have to reduce the load so that it can sail. So, I decided to get out of the store and look for any stalls that could be rented.
“According to the original plan, this year I wanted to open two more Nasi Paka restaurant branches. However, my strength has to be based on reality.
"Anyway, I remain determined and will try to open two more Nasi Paka stalls. If I cannot get a restaurant, a stall would do,” added Yus, who is also a former media practitioner.
Quickly rising from defeat
Yus acknowledged the challenges she faced throughout the pandemic has made her increasingly courageous to step out of her comfort zone. In addition to working at her stall, Yus promotes her sambal products and sells them online. Her products were a hit and penetrated the Singaporean market. The sambal comes in two sizes priced at RM10.90 (small) and RM18 for the large.
Yus also sells wet produce such as shrimp and fish and provides delivery services. She sells durian, too, to ensure her livelihood.
“I understand, many traders have been severely affected since the start of Covid-19. I am thankful that despite my declining income, I am not indebted to anyone, even to the employees. Fortunately, my savings are enough.
“So, on this occasion, I want to share some advice with my business friends. If you feel like taking a vacation to calm your mind, please do so. But remember, after that we really have to relook the business plan.
“Our businesses must go on. Look for a good support system and don't give up,” she said, in closing the interview.
The Nasi Paka stall is open every Monday to Saturday from 9am to 4pm. You can stop by the stall at 67, Jalan Snuker 13/28, Section 13, Shah Alam or call 018-3681749 for more information. – The Vibes, July 28, 2021
#PetraKasih is an initiative under the Vinod Sekhar Foundation to assist and promote food stalls and small traders, including home-based businesses, during the pandemic. Each week, Getaran will highlight the plight of different food traders. If you know a food stall or small trader in your area and feel they deserve to be featured, contact us at [email protected].
*This story first appeared in our Malay-language sister portal Getaran.
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