These photos are a tribute to the hawkers of Penang – many of whom have supplied good food for generations and, in more subtle ways, glimpses of their culture, language and history. This series of portraits is a celebration of their variety and omnipresence in our society.
On weekdays, Nazli sells nasi campur at the food pavilion opposite Swettenham Pier (see cover photo above). But he is probably better known for his weekend exploits, off an old cart that he parks along Lebuh Queen by night. One of his regulars describes him as “Little India’s King of Fried Rice”. For Nazli, when it comes to cooking, it’s not the think of it, but the feel of it. Ingredients are tossed into the flaming wok with grace and an air of nonchalance. He jokes with his customers – most of whom are regulars – regaling them with hilarious stories of everyday encounters while letting out his hearty, infectious laugh.
