
From Sky to Stall: The Stunning Journey of a Viral Nasi Lemak Hawker
2025-08-26
Author: Li
A Viral Sensation: Meet Masita Ghani!
Former Singapore Airlines cabin crew member Masita Ghani has taken the internet by storm! After nostalgic old photos resurfaced, netizens can’t help but draw comparisons between her and the beloved Selena Gomez. At 56, Masita runs the popular Aliff Nasi Lemak stall in Serangoon Garden Market with her husband, Firuz, and her incredible story is capturing hearts.
A Journey from the Skies to the Stall
Masita’s journey began as a flight attendant in 1990, where she soared through the skies for a decade. However, her dream of starting a family led her to leave the glamorous life of flying. In 2000, she followed her doctor’s advice and traded her wings for a life of home-cooked meals and family—giving birth to her son, Ashraff, the very next year.
The Iconic 'Singapore Girl' Experience
Once a featured calendar girl for Singapore Airlines, Masita recalls being surprised by her selection: 'I didn’t understand why they chose me. There were so many stunning girls around.' Despite her self-doubt, she embodied the ‘Singapore Girl’ spirit—graced in a batik kebaya and radiating charm. Though she doesn't possess the calendars from her time, her friends have kept the memories alive, and recent viral TikToks featuring her are reigniting that charm.
Going Viral and Finding Old Friends
When videos posted by Batik Sayang’s Serena Wong racked up over 460,000 views, Masita received a flurry of messages from friends and former colleagues. Initially anxious about the attention, she quickly realized how heartfelt the response was. 'I thought going viral meant negative things,' she admits, but her newfound fame has led to joyful reunions and increased business at her stall.
Cooking Up a Storm at Aliff Nasi Lemak
Masita’s path to hawker life wasn’t simple. When Firuz expanded their nasi lemak business, he convinced her to join the team, and now she’s the heart of the stall, handling customer orders with a smile. 'It was difficult at first, but I grew to like the flexible schedule,' she says, finding satisfaction in the community connection.
A Loving Duo with Culinary Passion
Firuz’s journey to the food scene began in IT, but his passion for cooking came from his grandfather. In 1995, he opened Aliff Nasi Lemak, which blossomed under his care and love for cooking. The couple’s dedication extends beyond the stall; at home, Firuz whips up delicious dinners, leaving Masita feeling pampered.
Fans and Followers
As her online fame grows, Firuz cheekily remarks that he’s also capturing attention, with some calling him a 'heart-stealer.' From their humble beginnings to viral sensations, Masita and Firuz have proven that love, food, and community create a recipe for happiness—and they invite you to join them at their stall, especially if you want to snag some of the popular goreng pisang before they sell out. So, hurry down before lunchtime to taste the magic yourself!
A Beautiful Blend of Past and Present
Masita’s heartfelt story reminds us that life’s turns can be as beautiful as the skies she once flew. Her humility, charm, and passion resonate, making her more than just a hawker; she's a beloved figure in her community, embodying resilience, warmth, and an unwavering love for family and food. Don’t miss her delectable nasi lemak—you’ll not only be savoring a bite of history but also experiencing a slice of her enchanting journey.