GEORGE TOWN – It is now official. The Bangkok Lane Mee Greng stall is relocating to the New World Park hawker complex in Burmah Road after the movement control order (MCO) is lifted.
The stall that has been operating in the coffee-shop in Pulau Tikus for 76 years in Bangkok Lane had to find a new location after a dispute with the shop operator could not be resolved.
The stall is currently operated by Mahboob Md Zakarih, who took over from his late father in the 1990s. Mahboob’s daughter Sameema confirmed the relocation, saying that once the MCO is lifted, they plan to relocate to New World Park.
The stall will continue to be in Pulau Tikus until August 31 – that is when the lease expires. But Mahboob will begin setting up the main stall in New World Park once the MCO is lifted.
“Thank you for the support. We are grateful to all Malaysians,” said Sameema.
After a fallout with the coffeeshop operator, Mahboob, 67, was asked to leave early this year but managed to negotiate to stay until his lease is up.
He has been paying a monthly rent of RM1,800 based on a gentleman’s agreement between him and the coffeeshop operator for the past years.
By law, a notice to vacate should be served for at least three to six months prior.
“It is only humane, especially when my father is being chased out during the pandemic,” said Sameema.
The coffee-shop operator could not be reached for comment
Pulau Tikus assemblyman Chris Lee, who tried to intervene, said it is a private matter between both individuals, but he has expressed satisfaction that the issue has been resolved between the two.
He wished Mahboob all the best in his new location, saying he hopes that regular patrons will continue to support the hawker.
“It is a new start for the coffee-shop operator and him. I also hope the younger generation can emulate Mahboob and continue to make Pulau Tikus a reference point for affordable and tasty food.” – The Vibes, May 13, 2021
