By Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, Nov 19: A witty greeting from his customers, calling him Master Q or Lao Fu Zi, a famous Hong Kong comic character, never fails to brighten the day of 52-year-old Foochow “Kampua Mee” connoisseur and cafe operator, Mr Ling.
Ling, who prefers to be addressed simply as Mr Ling, said his customers often liken him to the comic character, and he takes it all in stride.
Their playful banter, he admits, has been a boon as he crafts the iconic Sibu-style noodles at his eatery for the past four years.
“The comic character help small operators like us. I’m more or less a ‘one-man show’ when it comes to preparing the dishes. I appreciate their wit as it adds to the experience,” Ling told Dayak Daily.
However, he prefers to name his stall Ah Hee Kampua Sibu, which also serves as his nickname.
“I used this name at our family shop back in Sibu, so it felt fitting to bring it here to the cafe,” he explained.
With 30 years of experience under his belt, Ling considers himself a master in the art of making kampua, a savoury, aromatic noodles that are a local Sarawak favourite.
“Being a Sibu native and having grown up with my family making these noodles, I aim to bring that authentic taste here to Kuching. I’ve been making Kampua since I was a teenager, so I’m not far from perfection. It’s my version, but it’s the Kampua locals from Sibu love,” he said.
Regulars, especially fellow Sibu natives, consistently give his noodles the thumbs up. “It makes me proud to see them enjoy my Kampua. It tells me I’m getting it right,” he chuckled.
Beyond Sibu-style Kampua, Ling also serves other popular Foochow dishes, including wanton dumplings, Ba Ding Herb Mee Sua, and Red Wine Mee Sua.
Having raised his children, Ling hopes his daughter, who is already involved in the culinary trade, might one day take over the business.
“My son is pursuing an engineering degree locally, but all my children can cook, so they could explore this trade if they wish,” he said with a smile.
Ah Hee Kampua Sibu is located at Lao Fu Zi Kopitiam, RH Plaza, operating from 6am to 3.30pm, closed on Thursdays. For enquiries, call 010-592 9898. — DayakDaily
