The open space near Seri Q-lap Mall is set to be the new happening place in the Brunei-Muara District for the public to enjoy meals and the atmosphere.
While the place is still undergoing preparations, a number of local entrepreneurs have begun operating, taking advantage of the school holiday.
Brunei Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DPPMB) Secretary General and National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Brunei Darussalam Vice President Haji Abdul Rahman bin Haji Sirat is among the first few to start operating here.
“I have been in the food business for a long time and I started operating from home before renting a stall at another place. However, the profits were not sufficient to accommodate the rental fees and we decided to close down,” said Haji Abdul Rahman.
“This place is managed by DPPMB through its cooperative body to help local entrepreneurs manage businesses at a more strategic place and build their economy,” he added.
“Once it was confirmed, I transported my container stall and Alhamdulillah others followed suit and we began operating on December 11,” he said.
“We received encouraging support for this initiative and was able to provide operators with a second generator for the power supply, which they can pay back once the business starts to pick-up,” said Haji Abdul Rahman.
“The place will be provided more facilities such as lighting, an overhead projector for the youth to hang out and watch a live game and a small space for children to ride scooters or rollerblades. These will help liven up the place. I hope more people will come and support us. This is a good way for youth and pensioners to earn a living,” added Haji Abdul Rahman.
Meanwhile, police pensioner Abu Bakar bin Haji Abdul Rahman who is on mandatory pension leave, was offered to rent a stall by a family member to generate a side income.
Abu Bakar is no stranger to the food business and has experience managing a satay business.
“The response so far has been good. We have had a good number of visitors who came either to dine-in as we begin operations from 4.30pm to midnight. Quite a number of local favourites are offered at the stalls here,” said Abu Bakar.
“For those who have the talent or passion, this will definitely be a platform for you to start with,” he added.
Meanwhile, Nuramni Hafiyah binti Abdul Wahab from Kampong Lambak Kanan, joined the initiative to help her parents to expand their food business as they have been operating their stall only on Fridays and Sundays at Meragang beach.
Though her parents, especially her father, was hesitant on managing the business, she managed to encourage them to change their mind.
“We started by selling simple food and drinks like the ones sold at the beach. But we do have some signature items such as ais kepal, a variety of fritters and potato twist. We will add more items to the menu once things start picking up,” Nuramni Hafiyah said.
“This place is strategically located and the food is reasonably priced. The area, which includes tables and seats and the open air atmosphere ensures the customers are comfortable.’” – Lyna Mohamad
