A Life Dedicated to Tradition

Chinatown has lost a cherished gem. Tan Chew Ning, a beloved coffee hawker who served traditional brews for an impressive 60 years, succumbed to cancer on September 10, at the age of 80. His passion for coffee began at just 13, under the gentle guidance of his father.

From Humble Beginnings to Coffee Legend

After dropping out of school, Tan's journey in the coffee business started when he learned the art of brewing from his father. Eventually, he opened his stall, Tai Hwa Coffee Stall, at the bustling Chinatown Complex Food Centre, becoming a staple in the community.

The Resilience of a True Craftsman

Despite facing overwhelming challenges—including the loss of his wife in 2018 and the departure of his business partner—Tan persevered, continuing to operate his stall with unwavering dedication. He eventually reduced his hours from 17 to 11 daily, but never compromised on his commitment to traditional brewing methods.

Fighting Cancer with a Cup of Coffee

Even as he battled cancer, Tan remained at his post, serving loyal customers until his last days. His son revealed that, over a year ago, Tan experienced stomach pains, leading to the discovery of a colon tumor. After surgery and chemotherapy, he was briefly declared cancer-free, only to face a heartbreaking relapse. Remarkably, Tan pushed through until he could no longer.

A Final Goodbye