Friday, September 4, 2009

1 (RINGGIT)MALAYSIA

Photo: The New Straits Times


Had enough of 1Malaysia slogans? Yeah, me too. I am more interested in 1(Ringgit)Malaysia – meals. Did you know that you can actually get a meal for only RM1? Nah, impossible! Not in the city of Kuala Lumpur. Here you can't get a decent meal for less than RM3.00. That's exactly what I thought until I saw the above headlines in the papers.
RM1? That’s about S$0.40 or US$0.28! For that you get a plate of roti canai with your pick of a curry AND a glass of teh tarik! I haven’t paid so little for a nourishing meal since my student days back in the 1960s.

Your money's worth @ only RM1

If you are horrified by the inflated prices of buka puasa (breaking of fast) buffets at hotels, you will understand why it’s such a welcome relief to know that there are folks out there like Mustapa Kamal Maulut who truly embody the spirit of ‘People first, Performance now”. He is chairman of Ukhwah Koperasi Pendidikan Islam Malaysis Bhd which owns the restaurant offering RM1 meals. This guy definitely knows how to win over the hearts and stomachs of Malaysians.

Patrons making their selection at the restaurant.


That’s not all. On Fridays, patrons at the restaurant can eat as much as they want and pay whatever they feel is fit. Friday’s proceeds are donated to charity. I don’t know about you, but I’m heading there this Friday. Hope I can get a seat. In case you want to tuck in too, the restaurant’s in Lorong Medan Tuanku Satu.

Almost sold out!


In these days of high prices, low quality and poor service, it’s a cause to celebrate when one comes across a case to the contrary. That was how I felt when I chanced upon some roadside stalls selling buka puasa fare. For RM1, I could have my pick of any three kueh (cakes) from a tantalizing assortment of kueh of all colours and shapes – just like the people flocking there to make their purchases. The vendors beckoned with warm smiles and friendly invitations to sample and buy. And I did!
For these humble people, quality control and good service come from a genuine desire to offer their best. That's a sure way to draw customers. You don't need an MBA to make a success of your business ventures. Put people first before profits, and you are on your way to achieving your goals. So simple lah, but few practitioners of this philosophy.

My kind of Malaysian street scene...

3 comments:

AT said...

Over in KL you have RM1 Roti and drink, whereas here in Kuching we have RM2 for a plate of chicken rice. The sellers are doing good business here.
Alwin

seniorsaloud said...

Was in Kuching over the weekend. Love the food there! Had my first taste of seaweed fried rice, deep fried mushroom and bitter gourd at a vegetarian restaurant. Also tried the real Sarawak laksa. Pity I had no time to enjoy more of the local fare. Lovely, clean city.

AT said...

Glad that you enjoyed your stay in Kuching! Yes! Sarawak laksa is famous. Next time you come try our local cendol with red beans, must be coconut milk and not canned milk. Its different from KL.
Alwin