By Wilfred Pilo
For more than 35 years, regulars at A1 Food Centre in the BDC Commercial Centre have known one food vendor simply as ‘Kueh Chap’—a nickname inspired by his signature Teochew dish.
The traditional dish features flat rice noodles served in a rich, herbal soy-based broth, accompanied by an assortment of braised pork, offal, tofu, and boiled eggs.
The ever-friendly 65-year-old vendor, who prefers to be known by his nickname, starts his day early to prepare the dish for his loyal customers.
After decades of refining his craft, he has mastered the art of preparing the traditional delicacy, developing his signature recipe through years of dedication and practice.
“I taught myself. I love tradition, so I spent years refining my signature broth, carefully preparing its base and balancing rich aromas with selected spices,” he said.
He added that the dish is served with homemade chilli sauce and a drizzle of vinegar to complement its flavours.
After years of following the same routine, preparing the ingredients at home before heading to the food centre has become second nature.
“It’s not just a business; it’s my profession,” he said.
For him, the trade is also a source of pride, having supported his family and helped his children become independent.
Although none of his children has followed in his footsteps, he believes they could take over the trade if they wished.
“They have watched me prepare the dish over the years, so they already have a good idea of how it is done. I am confident they could do it,” he said.
He also acknowledged the Teochew Chinese community for introducing kueh chap to Sarawak, where it has since become part of the State’s diverse food culture.
He believes traditional favourites such as kueh chap, kolo mee, Sarawak laksa, and kampua mee play an important role in bringing people from different backgrounds together.
“BDC is a place where people from different races come together to enjoy good food. Kueh chap is one of the dishes we share.
“I am happy to see people enjoying what I prepare, and I’m touched that they call me by the dish’s name.
“After all these years, I take great pride in having mastered the recipe. Seeing happy faces enjoying my food makes it all worthwhile,” he said.
His kueh chap stall is located at A1 Food Centre in the BDC Commercial Centre and operates daily from 6.30am to 11am, except Mondays. — DayakDaily
