(From left) Emcee and deejay Tincy Tan with Kluang Rail Coffee director Lim Ben Winn, Jit Tong, Jit Chen and Malaysia Book of Records marketing director Jwan Heah during the award presentation.
KLUANG Rail Coffee’s name is now etched in the Malaysia Book of Records (MBR) as the oldest railway kopitiam in Malaysia.
The eatery’s operator Lim Jit Chen said his late grandfather Lim Huan Hee opened the family-run business in 1938.
“Kluang Rail Coffee began as a canteen along Jalan Stesen in Kluang, Johor.
“The railway formed the backbone of Malaya’s transportation and communication network back then.
“Kluang railway station, built in 1909, was strategically located close to the police station, post office, hospital and government administrative offices.
“This made the canteen extremely convenient, especially since it began serving breakfast from as early as 6.30am,” said Jit Chen.
He said the evolution of Hainanese cuisine was greatly influenced by both English and Asian tastes.
“For example, the English have toast with jam for breakfast but during the Second World War, jam was expensive.
“Thus the local breakfast evolved to offer half-boiled eggs and toast with butter and kaya, which is an Asian addition,” he added.
Jit Chen said the business would continue to honour its rich heritage, reflected in its service to the community.
“It is not just about food and drinks, but the experiences and bond created with our customers,” he said.
He added that in 2008, he and his cousin Lim Jit Tong worked to build upon the business with the introduction of a more extensive local and international menu.
While a new railway station has been built in Kampung Masjid Lama, the old station remains as a heritage building.
Jit Tong, who is Kluang Rail Coffee Sdn Bhd director, said the recognition from MBR would serve as a launching pad for future expansion.
“This recognition is due to support from the people of Kluang.
“The next chapter will involve not only bringing the brand to other parts of the country but also promoting Kluang as a tourist attraction,” he said.
