AT 67, Nellie Bok is proof that it’s never too late to pursue your passion. A proud Penangite residing in Paya Terubong, Bok has transformed her love for cooking into a thriving home-based business known as Nell’s mykitchen.
During an interview conducted at Komtar recently, Bok shared how her journey into the culinary world began rather unexpectedly.
“I was actually in the real estate business before this.
“It was only after I retired and the Movement Control Order (MCO) was enforced that I started selling food from home,” she said.
The turning point came when a friend, Timothy Tye, founder of the Facebook community group SojiMart, invited her to join the platform.
SojiMart was created to help Malaysians shop and build businesses during the pandemic.
Through this exposure, Bok began advertising her food, and what started as a side hobby quickly evolved into a full-time venture.
“Passion played a big part. I had so much spare time during MCO, and I have always loved cooking.
“When you truly enjoy making something for others to appreciate, it’s not just about the money—it’s about the joy it brings,” she said.
Today, Nell’s mykitchen is known for its wide array of delicious offerings.
Bok’s signature items include the unique nasi lemak cake, traditional cookies, nasi ulam, roti jala with curry chicken, Chinese noodles, bak chang (rice dumplings), mooncakes, prawn noodles, ayam goreng berempah, and much more.
She also caters for small gatherings such as birthday parties and office functions.
When it comes to delivery, Bok relies on delivery riders and Grab services—except for her fragile nasi lemak cake, which she personally delivers to ensure its safe arrival.
Entirely self-taught, Bok has been passionate about cooking since her working days, often preparing meals for her family.
Her culinary talents have even caught the attention of Storm Asia Magazine, where some of her dishes have been featured.
Looking ahead, Bok hopes to expand her venture by conducting cooking and baking classes.
“I would love to teach others how to cook. It’s something I genuinely enjoy sharing,” she added.
Customers interested in ordering can reach Bok via her Facebook page: Nell’s mykitchen.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Law Suun Ting and from Nell’s mykitchen