Growing up in kampung-era Singapore, my childhood was shaped by the rhythm of dough kneading and the aroma of freshly made noodles. Hiap Giap Noodle Manufacturers wasn’t just a family business—it was my father’s dream, one he pursued with tireless dedication and quiet sacrifice.
In the 1970s, my father, Nah Chin Koon (aka, Lau Lau Ban, this is how the company staff respectfully address him), and a partner started Hiap Giap with little more than a humble attap workshop and a dream. Those early days were difficult. Living near the workshop, I often watched him work late into the night, driven not just by ambition, but by the need to support a wife and nine children. Although, I am the only daughter who is not working in Hiap Giap, but I remember things hasn’t changed since the day he started the business.
The challenges were constant—fierce competition, economic uncertainty, and the pressure of being the sole breadwinner. I remember his silent walks at night, heavy with worry. Yet he never compromised on quality. Every noodle reflected his pride and commitment, crafted with care despite the burdens he carried.
Balancing work and family were never easy. Dinners were often quiet, his thoughts consumed by tomorrow’s tasks. But he remained a steady presence—his love shown not in words, but in action and persistence.
Despite the hardships, there was beauty in his perseverance. A new recipe, a satisfied customer—these moments lit up his eyes. His passion was contagious, and his dream never wavered.
Today, Hiap Giap stands as more than a business. It’s a legacy of resilience, love, and community. As the second and third generations carry it forward, I see in every bowl of noodles the essence of my father’s spirit—a legacy built on strength, sacrifice, and heart.
