Historical Air Itam Asam Laksa Stall Forced To Close Over Harassment By Debt Collectors
The asam laksa shop in Air Itam, Penang sold its last bowl yesterday, 18 May.
By Daranee Balachandar — 19 May 2021, 01:10 PM
The Air Itam Market Laksa shop in Penang announced that it will close temporarily in a Facebook post yesterday, 18 May
The shop owner Ang Kak Seong said that he had to close the world-renowned asam laksa shop after being financially hit by the MCO and harassment from debt collectors, reported Malaysiakini.
"[May 18] will be the last day of business (...) Thanks for supporting for so many years," Ang wrote on Facebook.
The Air Itam Market Laksa — which opened in 1955 — has accumulated a loyal following of customers over the years.
The shop owner said that the closure was due to constant harassment from debt collectors looking for his eldest son who owes them money
"I have been forced to pay off my son's loans again and again," the 72-year-old was quoted saying by Malay Mail.
Following the constant harassment over the debt incurred by his 47-year-old son, Ang reached out to Air Itam assemblyperson Joseph Ng for help in the matter.
"His son has repeatedly defaulted on multiple sets of debts, so the creditors went to the laksa stall to collect money several times," Ng said in a statement.
"Ang was unable to repay the debt for his son so the whole family, including his wife and daughters, have decided to break family ties with his eldest son."
It is reported that Ang's son has since gone missing.
Ng also said that the shop owner hopes creditors will stop harassing him.
Ang disclosed that the laksa business has been struggling to stay afloat ever since the COVID-19 pandemic hit
Business at the shop has dropped drastically since last year as travel restrictions were enforced in the country due to the pandemic, reported Free Malaysia Today.
Ang expressed his gratitude to his customers who have loyally supported his business and thanked his neighbours at the Air Itam Market for helping his business flourish all these years.
He also thanked the media for their coverage of his business and exposure which led to his shop gaining recognition over the years.
Ng added, "Temporarily quitting is a compelling and painful decision, but Ang hopes that everyone can understand his pain and suffering."
The assemblyperson expressed his hope that Ang would reconsider his decision and reopen his shop in the near future after a short break.
"The impact of the movement control orders has made the life of traders difficult, and Ang is no different," he said.
