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Singapore’s hawker scene has lost a quiet but enduring icon. Ms Tan Bee Hua (陳美烨), the second-generation owner of Tan’s Tu Tu Coconut Cake at Havelock Road Cooked Food Centre, has passed away peacefully at the age of 63.
The news was shared on the stall’s official Instagram and Facebook pages on 29 Jul 2025, prompting an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from customers. “She always love(d) her job and took pride in perfecting her Tu Tu kuehs to contribute to Singapore’s rich food heritage,” the post reads.
This beloved stall traces its roots back to the 1930s, when Ms Tan’s late father began selling the traditional Chinese snack, then a plain song kueh, before popularising the now-familiar coconut- and peanut-filled versions. Years later, Ms Tan gave up her 25-year corporate career to take over the business from her late brother — a decision made with both pride and a heavy heart.
Since 2004, she remained committed to the family’s tradition, hand-making each piece with care at her stalls in the (now defunct) Clementi stall and, later, Havelock. Tan’s Tu Tu Coconut Cake is known for its soft, fluffy rice flour shells and aromatic fillings of Coconut, Peanut, and Original. Each piece is priced at S$0.90, or S$4 for a set of 5.
To many, this wasn’t just a snack — it was a taste of nostalgia that was made all the more special by Ms Tan’s dedication and warm presence.
In light of her passing, the stall will be closed for the foreseeable future as the family makes arrangements. No reopening date has been announced.
Tributes have since flooded in across platforms, with many sharing stories of childhood visits, heartfelt exchanges, and how Ms Tan’s tu tu kueh was one of the best in Singapore.
Ms Tan’s passing marks the end of an era — but her legacy, and the joy she brought through every handmade piece of tu tu kueh, will live on in the hearts of many.
Our deepest condolences to Ms Tan’s loved ones during this difficult time. May you rest in peace, Ms Tan.
