Woman Criticizes ‘Cai Fan’ Stall for Lack of Variety and Rude Service

SINGAPORE — A woman, who goes by the name Kong MaLa, took to Facebook on March 24 to express her dissatisfaction with the food variety and service at a Rice Garden economy rice stall located at Albert Food Centre. Rice Garden, a brand by NTUC Foodfare, offers subsidized meals to cardholders such as ComCare beneficiaries and NTUC union members.

Kong, an NTUC union member, was entitled to a set meal for $2.50, consisting of two vegetables and one meat. However, after visiting the stall for four consecutive days, she noticed that she was served the exact same dishes each day—rice with cabbage, bean sprouts, and sliced meat. Disappointed by the lack of variety, she asked the staff about the promotion, only to be told that if she paid $2.50, they would select the dishes for her. To choose her own dishes, she would need to pay the full price of $3.

Kong also expressed her frustration with the stallholders’ attitude, describing them as “arrogant” and impatient. She questioned how ComCare cardholders, who pay $1.50 for their meal, might fare with even fewer options, remarking that everyone should be treated with respect, especially the elderly.

In response to AsiaOne’s queries, a FairPrice spokesperson clarified that Rice Garden offers a concessionary meal option with clearly identified dishes. FairPrice urged Kong to provide more details so they can ensure operators follow standard procedures and uphold service quality. They apologized for her unpleasant experience and welcomed customers to share feedback through their customer service hotline.

While Kong was disappointed, others have had positive experiences at different Rice Garden outlets. One lifestyle blogger praised the affordability and variety of dishes at the Pandan Gardens outlet, where a meal with four dishes cost just $3.70.

The government is also working to increase “budget meal” options at coffee shops across Singapore. From May, older rental coffee shops renewing their tenancy must offer four budget meals and two budget drinks as part of the effort to make affordable meals more accessible.