Nasi Lemak Bumbung Revisited

It had been a long time — nearly a decade — since I last sat down for a plate of nasi lemak at Nasi Lemak Bumbung in SEA Park. Back in the day, it was almost a weekly ritual after attending church nearby. Revisiting after so many years, I noticed that the place has changed in some ways: better organised, with proper lighting now, giving it a much cleaner and more comfortable feel compared to the chaotic, dimly lit atmosphere it once had.

The Nasi Lemak Ayam is now priced at RM9. The rice remained firm and carried a faint but noticeable aroma of pandan, a small detail that still sets it apart from many other nasi lemak stalls. The sambal was of the savoury variety — not overly spicy, but full of that umami depth I personally prefer.

The fried chicken, however, didn’t taste quite as I remembered. While it was still crispy, it wasn’t as flavourful as it used to be — and curiously, it also wasn’t as oily. I wonder if this change towards a “healthier” preparation might have dulled some of the rich, indulgent flavours that once made it so memorable.

Despite the slight shift in taste, Nasi Lemak Bumbung remains very much a PJ institution — one of those iconic spots that holds layers of memories for many. It’s comforting to know that even though time has brought changes, the core experience of enjoying a late-night nasi lemak at Nasi Lemak Bumbung is still intact. Their service is quick and efficient.