Israeli expat pays tribute to deceased Tekka hawker who introduced her to prata 10 years ago

From someone who didn’t even know what roti prata is to a full-blown foodie who runs gastronomic tours across Singapore’s hawker centres, Karni Tomer has genuinely fallen head over heels over her adopted country’s variety of cuisines. 

The Israeli arrived here a decade ago and immediately took to Singapore’s food like a fish to water — so much so that she started Wok ’n’ Stroll, a way for newbies to experience some of the best nosh around the island like a local. 

One of the figures who kickstarted Karni into her Singaporean culinary journey passed away last Wednesday (March 11) at the age of 68.

In a Facebook post, Karni paid tribute to a “good friend” and “very kind and loving person” Haji Zulkifli bin Packeer Bawa, the man behind Tekka Market stronghold Prata Saga Sambal Berlada. 

A favoured prata spot for many in Singapore, the stall's operator Pak Zul is said to have been the originator of combining prata — a traditionally Indian staple typically eaten with curry — with a Malay element: sambal. 

According to 8Days, Pak Zul apparently crafted his own sambal over 30 years ago as an alternative dipping sauce for the flatbread. A blend of red chillies and belacan is used to spice up the sambal, which goes well with his curry. His prata is said to be excellent too — soft, light and fluffy with a hint of crispiness.

The stall has been operated by Pak Zul and his wife for decades, and according to various anecdotes, the man is said to be a former chef in a reputable hotel and was once asked to demonstrate his prata-making skills at the Culinary Institute of America. Just last year, he was prominently featured in a Washington Post piece about Singapore's street food. 

What’s definitely clear though is that the local food scene has lost one of its best personalities who will be missed by many, including Karni. According to the expat, he died after a stroke. 

She wrote on Facebook about how she and Pak Zul met 10 years ago when she moved here, when she wasn't familiar with what prata even is. 

“I started visiting his stall often with my family and friends, we all loved his kind personality and amazing prata. Every time I entered the market I was amazed by his big smile that really made my day," Karni wrote. 

"Mr Zul, you are now suddenly gone and I don't know how I can walk in the Tekka knowing that you and your big smile are gone."

ilyas@asiaone.com