Why YOUth matters to hawker culture

Food plays a big part in Singapore; especially hawker centres. From tourists to politician leaders, our hawker centres have been a favorite and also plays a significant role in Singapore. Though we are very proud of our own local food, many think that the millennials are a cause of the hawker culture leading to a slow but eventual death.

'9 in 10 respondents agreed/strongly agreed that hawker centres are an important part of Singapore’s identity – Survey conducted by National Environment Agency (NEA) in 2016' ST Photo: Jasmine Choong

Lack of youngsters joining the hawker trade, increase demand for healthier options, foreign cuisines garner more appeal are some of the factors to why many would say our hawker culture is dying.

With Singapore's rich hawker culture, a pledge has been made for Singaporeans to show their support for the nomination of our hawker culture for UNESCO. (Photo By: Angelyn Tan)

However, companies such as NTUC coming up with projects benefiting aspiring young hawkers has seen its success in encouraging youngsters entering the hawker trade. I find that this is a good initiative as we are not ready to see our hawker culture go. We are dependent on youths to continue this rich culture that many of us identify with.

In the next blog post, you can find out what's cooking among 3 successful young hawkers or some would say, 'hawkerpreneurs'.

#OurHawkerCulture #Food #Singapore #Youths #richculture