THE curtain is coming down on a nostalgic 68-year-old chai diam ma (traditional sundry shop) located in the quiet neighbourhood of Kampung Kastam, Gelugor, within the Seri Delima constituency.
Established in 1957, the same year Malaysia gained independence, the shop, which was passed down through two generations, is set to close its doors for good next month.
A recent visit by Buletin Mutiara revealed that many of the store’s shelves have already been cleared, with most grocery items sold as part of its clearance sale ahead of its closure.
Its owner, 75-year-old Yeoh Guan Lee, remains calm and content despite the emotional significance of shutting down a shop that has been part of his daily life for decades.
“This shop has a long, rich history, just like the old furniture and vintage items still here.
“But life must go on. I made a promise to myself that is to close this shop before I pass on.
“I feel now is the right time to enjoy life with my family and embrace full retirement. I have no regrets. Everything in life has its end, and it’s just a matter of time,” he said.
Yeoh’s two daughters are now adults, aged 44 and 46, and he also has a 10-year-old grandson.
“I want to spend more time with my 70-year-old wife and the rest of my family. After all, money can’t be earned forever,” he quipped.
As a family man, Yeoh lives just 100 metres away in a nearby terrace house. He walks to his shop daily and still enjoys his routine tasks, no matter rain or shine.
“Whenever I feel tired, I’ll take a nap behind the shop, or sometimes walk home for a quick rest.
“My wife even asked me to reconsider my decision, but after seeing the bigger picture, I’ve made up my mind,” he said.
He fondly recalled how his father had purchased the shop lot decades ago for just RM21,700.
“Luckily, my father bought this place back then. Now, I plan to rent it out for about RM3,000 a month.”he added.
Originally from Langkawi, Yeoh moved to Penang many years ago.
One of his daughters, formerly an air stewardess, would bring him unique cans from different countries during her travels while Yeoh still keeps those cans as memories.
On his plan, Yeoh wants to travel round the world, probably taking a cruise to Japan first in June, and prioritise his health.
“After decades operating the shop, it is time for me to take a good rest,” he added.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siew Chia En