(ANN/THE STRAITS TIMES) – Malaysia-born comedian and online sensation Nigel Ng, better known as Uncle Roger, has ventured into the culinary world with his fried rice restaurant chain, Fuiyoh! It’s Uncle Roger. Since opening his first outlet at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur in September, Ng has expanded with two more branches in December, located at MyTown mall in Kuala Lumpur and IPC Shopping Centre in Selangor.
Despite the excitement around the 33-year-old comedian’s foray into the food and beverage industry, reviews of the restaurants have been mixed.
Some diners have praised the fried rice dishes, but others have been critical. A food content creator highlighted slow service at the Pavilion outlet, reporting a one-hour wait for her meal. Additionally, netizens questioned the MYR18 (SGD5.40) price tag for basic tomato fried rice, calling it expensive.
Acknowledging the feedback, Ng took to Instagram on December 17 to announce a price reduction across all outlets. In his signature Uncle Roger persona, he posted: “Haiyaa… why so many confusion. Uncle Roger want to confirm all fry rice and noodle now MYR16 at all outlets. Fuiyoh!”
Known for his viral comedy skits critiquing food, Ng has embraced humor to address the price concerns. In a TikTok video for Best Food Malaysia, Uncle Roger joked about lowering prices based on the malls’ profiles. Comparing the upscale Pavilion, which hosts luxury brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton, to MyTown mall, he said: “If your shopping mall has Mr DIY, haiyaa! Cannot charge MYR18, too expensive.”
Ng first gained fame in 2020 with a comedic critique of a BBC Food video on cooking egg fried rice, where he debuted his Uncle Roger character — a middle-aged Asian man speaking broken English with an exaggerated Cantonese accent. His catchphrases, such as “haiyaa” and “fuiyoh,” have become internet staples.
As Ng adapts to the challenges of the food and beverage industry, his willingness to address criticism and adjust his offerings reflects a balance of humor and humility. With the new pricing in place, fans and foodies alike will be watching to see how Fuiyoh! It’s Uncle Roger evolves in Malaysia’s competitive culinary scene.
