IPOH: After 111 years in business, a popular soy sauce factory in Gopeng is closing its doors.
The Hup Teck Soy Sauce Factory, established in 1914 will cease operations on Jan 28.
Owner Low Bak Tong, 72, a bachelor, said the younger generation is not interested in continuing the business.
"So with a heavy heart, we need to shut down the business. I started working at the factory after my father passed away when I was in my 30s. My two other partners are also senior citizens and have called it quits," he said.
Low said his younger brother is in Australia and his partner’s children are pursuing other careers, leaving no one to take over the business.
He then added that age is catching up and it is not easy to work in this field anymore.
"It's not an easy job. We have to carry heavy drums, and I can no longer do that. Once we posted on Facebook about the factory closing, people started coming by to purchase the soy sauce in bulk. Every last drop of soy sauce is sold out," he said.
Low said after retirement he plans to spend time with friends.
"I have a lot of catching up to do, as all these years I have been busy working. If there is an opportunity for me to go on tours with friends, I will do that as well. I want to have a stress-free life now, and this Chinese New Year will be different," he said.
Low said despite the difficult decision, they had to say goodbye after 111 years of producing one of the best soy sauces.
"We are grateful for the support gained all these years. You all are the reason for our success, and we are humbled to have served our clients," he added.
