Kuala Pilah coffee shop, 70 years on, still where all races share a table

KUALA PILAH – Despite the rise of modern cafes, a traditional coffee shop that has been operating for more than 70 years remains a favourite breakfast spot for the multiracial community here.

Kedai Kopi Ah Meng, established after World War II, is known not only for its traditional menu but also as a meeting place for local residents across several generations.

Its fourth-generation operator, Tan Dao Qin, 26, said he took over the family legacy after completing a public relations degree at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) because he wanted to ensure the heritage continued.

"I notice the most interesting thing about this shop is that Malays, Chinese and Indians can sit at the same table, chat and enjoy food together. Such an atmosphere is getting harder to find," he said when met by Kosmo! in Kampung Parit here yesterday morning. (Quote translated from Malay.)

He said nearly 90 per cent of the shop's customers are Malays, with the remainder Chinese and Indians.

"We have many choices of drinks and food, but customers most enjoy coffee with nasi lemak, curry noodles or toast in the morning," he said.

For regular customer Mohd Zin Abdullah, 49, the shop has a charm of its own that has made it a must-visit for years.

"I have been coming here for a long time. The food and coffee are really special. This shop is also one of the attractions in Kuala Pilah because it brings together customers from various backgrounds," he said.

Alam Flora retiree Mohd Raymie Tahir, 56, said Kedai Kopi Ah Meng had been the village 'hot spot' since he was a child.

"In the past, if you wanted to meet friends or old acquaintances, you came here. That atmosphere remains until today. I come two or three times a week. The coffee is really good, so are the toast, curry noodles and cakoi. It is this traditional atmosphere that keeps me coming back," he said.

He said the heritage of traditional coffee shops such as Ah Meng should be preserved as they hold the history and identity of Kuala Pilah.

"I hope shops like this continue to be preserved. It is not just a place to eat, but part of the history and memories of the Kuala Pilah community," he said.