HAWKERS in Penang have contributed significantly to the growth of the state’s tourism industry, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said.
Chow lauded their effort in promoting Penang’s food haven globally, attracting tourists to the state.
“Penang is famous for its hawker food, and char koay teow is one of the most preferred choices when they visited the state.
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“Most visitors come to Penang to enjoy the food, and we play a pivotal role to promote it.
“Penang’s food culture is amazing, and the state has become a famous food haven with its unique geographical location and multicultural fusion,” he said during the 2023 Char Koay Teow competition at Toi Shan Ningyang Wui Kwon in King Street.
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A total of 25 stalls with a long history, took part in the competition.
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Chow said such a competition provided an opportunity for the contestants to find inspiration to develop their skills.
“I hope such events can take place again in the future,” he added.
Deputy Education Minister Lim Hui Ying, who is also the Tanjong MP, said such a competition was significant to bring out the best of Penang’s food.
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Koh Gee How, 44, from the Penang Auntie (Big Prawn) Char Koay Teow at Kota Permai, Bukit Mertajam, emerged as the winner.
When met, Koh told reporters that he did not expect to win the competition.
“I took part in this competition after my friends encouraged me to join. I enjoyed it!
“I am happy with my achievement, and I hope more can be done to improve the taste of char koay teow in the future,” said the soft-spoken Koh.
His char koay teow is priced at RM7 and RM8 (duck egg) respectively.
First runners-up Por Leong Teik, who operates his stall near Chulia Street, was glad about his feat while second runners-up Low Ping Kean could not believe that he won the third spot.
Low operates his stall at KK 99 Cafe in Tanjung Bungah.
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Also present were state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin, Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, and Penang Island City Council (MBPP) councillor Wong Yuee Harng.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud
Video by Siew Chia En