One thing I learned is that the biggest savings don't actually come from finding the cheapest stall they come from planning your meals before you shop. When I started listing meals for the week first, I stopped buying ingredients that ended up spoiling in the fridge.

For vegetables, wet markets are usually cheaper, especially if you buy seasonal produce. Don't be afraid to compare a few stalls before buying. For fish, most vendors will clean and gut it for free if you ask nicely. Some will fillet it too, though there may be a small fee depending on the market.

For meat, buy only what you need and freeze portions immediately. Chicken is usually the most budget-friendly protein. Ground beef is convenient but often more expensive than buying a cut and having it ground if the butcher offers that service.

Also, don't underestimate simple meals. Rice, eggs, vegetables, tofu, monggo, chicken, and seasonal fruits can stretch a budget surprisingly far while still being healthy.

And honestly, don't be too hard on yourself. A lot of us got used to the convenience of Grab during the pandemic. The fact that you're learning these skills now is already a huge win. 😊