Mala Scams in Singapore? Overpriced, Under-Portioned, and Unchecked
A recent discussion on r/askSingapore has brought attention to a dishonest mala stall near Clementi MRT, where a customer claimed to have been overcharged and misled by inaccurate weighing practices. Here’s what happened, how to spot similar scams, and what you can do if you encounter such practices.
The Allegations: Overcharging and Hidden Weighing Scales
A Reddit user, Mashed_Potato_0, shared their frustrating experience at a mala stall, alleging that the stall:
- Overpriced the food selection despite choosing mostly vegetables (which are typically cheaper than meat).
- Refused to show the weight on the scale, which was covered behind an object.
- Added 'free' vegetables after questioning the price, yet when weighed at home, the total was significantly less than expected.
- Refused service after the customer insisted on seeing the weight before confirming the order.
This isn’t an isolated case—many Singaporeans chimed in with similar experiences, both at this stall and at other mala outlets across the country.
Other Reports: Ingredient Removal & Dishonest Practices
Many users responded with their own horror stories about mala stalls engaging in dubious tactics:
"Wait till you know some shops would remove some of the ingredients in the kitchen before cooking, even if they charge you correctly based on what you took." – skybobobear
"I picked a lot of fish since they charged by weight, but when my food came, there was only one piece of fish left." – oheggtart
A common complaint involved Gong Yuan Mala, particularly their Kovan branch, where multiple users claimed that selected ingredients mysteriously went missing after cooking.
"Gong Yuan mala does this. Once might be an accident, but I decided to boycott them after it happened a few times." – fallow0
What You Can Do If You Encounter Dishonest Stalls
If you suspect a food stall is cheating customers, there are steps you can take to report and spread awareness:
1. Report to Weights and Measures Office (WMO)
Singapore’s Weights and Measures Office (WMO) regulates weighing practices to ensure fair trade. You can report any suspected malpractice by:
📞 Calling: 6898 1800
✉️ Emailing: weightsandmeasures@enterprisesg.gov.sg
🌍 Visiting: www.weightsandmeasures.gov.sg
2. Leave a Google Review
Many users suggest leaving detailed negative reviews on Google or Facebook to warn others.
"Look at the Google reviews of that place—you’re not alone." – Sharp_Appearance7212
3. Vote with Your Wallet
As several commenters pointed out, simply stop supporting dishonest businesses.
"You think they’re cheating you and you still go back and try to give them money? Vote with your wallet la." – erisestarrs
"If a shop is bad, that will be the one and only time I spend money there." – sniktology
4. Name and Shame
Public awareness can push dishonest businesses to change.
"Name and shame! People deserve to know." – ChiliPedi
"It’s at the Kopitiam, Block 450, called Holy Flavour Palace if I’m not mistaken." – Mashed_Potato_0
Final Thoughts: Beware of Dishonest Hawkers
While most hawker stalls in Singapore operate fairly, some take advantage of unclear pricing, hidden weighing scales, and ingredient removals to overcharge unsuspecting customers. If you ever feel something is off:
✅ Request to see the weight clearly before confirming your order.
✅ Weigh your food at home to check for discrepancies.
✅ Report the stall if you notice a pattern of dishonesty.
✅ Warn others through Google reviews and social media.
Singaporeans take their food seriously, and dishonest businesses won’t survive if enough people speak up. Stay vigilant and support the hawkers that respect their customers!
