KLUANG Rail Coffee celebrated its 84th year in business with an induction into the Malaysia Book of Records as the country’s oldest railway kopitiam.
The certificate presentation was held on Monday at its very first outlet at the Kluang railway station in Johor.
Founded by Lim Luan Hee in 1938, Kluang Rail Coffee is a family business that started operations in the early years of World War II (WWII) and saw challenges aplenty with then Malaya’s occupation by the English and Japanese forces.
With just one kati (600g) of sugar and several cans of milk, Lim started a canteen serving the residents and government officials within the vicinity during that era.
Over time, the canteen grew to become the very first kopitiam or coffee shop in Kluang under Lim’s son, Lim Heng Yong, and later his grandson, Lim Jit Chen.
Jit Chen said the evolution of Hainanese cuisine was greatly influenced by both the English and Asian tastes.
“For example, the English have toast and jam for breakfast. During those days (WWII), jam was imported and expensive. Even butter was a luxury.
“Thus, the local breakfast evolved to offer toast with butter and kaya (coconut egg jam). Half boiled eggs, however, is a uniquely Asian addition.”
Today, a new railway station in Kampung Masjid Lama takes care of the commuting needs of residents, but the original station, built in 1909, continues to be maintained as a heritage building.
The presence of Kluang Rail Coffee has helped the old station become a popular historical tourist attraction in the district of Kluang.
Jit Chen said the business will evolve with times, but the owners must continue to honour its rich heritage and this must be reflected in their service to the community.
“Kluang Rail Coffee is what we would like to call a ‘rail born’ and truly a Malaysian kopitiam. It is an outlet that has brought so many Malaysians together with so many stories told over a cup of coffee for the past 84 years.
“It’s not just about a drink or the food, but it’s about the experiences and the bond that is created among and with our customers.”
Moving forward, the recognition from the Malaysia Book of Records will serve as a launching pad for Kluang Rail Coffee’s future expansion.
Kluang Rail Coffee Sdn Bhd director Lim Jit Tong said the next chapter will involve not only bringing the brand and signature taste to other parts of the country, but also to further promote Kluang as a must-visit tourist attraction.
This, he added, will be accomplished based on dedication and commitment to serve great coffee and food; to build great customer relations and experience; and to provide superb service at affordable prices. — by TMR / Pic source: Kluang Rail Coffee
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