IPOH: When word got out that a century-old soy sauce factory in Gopeng was about to close its doors, the customers came running.
Many bought in bulk to ensure that they could continue to enjoy their favourite soy sauce for a while, at least.
“Once we posted on social media on the factory closing, people started coming to buy the soy sauce in bulk,” said owner Low Bak Tong, 72. “Every last drop of soy sauce has been sold.”
After being in business for 111 years, the popular Hup Teck Soy Sauce Factory, established in 1914 was scheduled to cease operations on Tuesday, the eve of Chinese New Year. But with all his stock sold out, the factory is as good as closed now.
End of an era: After being in business for 111 years, the popular Hup Teck Soy Sauce Factory, established in 1914 was scheduled to cease operations on Tuesday, the eve of Chinese New Year. But with all his stock sold out, the factory is as good as closed now.
Low, a bachelor, took over when he was in his 30s after his father died. However, he said the younger generation was not interested in carrying on with the business.
“I have two other partners, who are also senior citizens, and we have decided to call it quits. It’s with a heavy heart that we have to shut down the business,” he said.Low said his younger brother was in Australia, and that his partner’s children were doing other jobs, and there was no one to take over the business.
With age catching up, Low said it was no longer viable for him to continue working.
“It is not an easy job, we have to carry heavy drums, and I can no longer do that,” he said.
After his retirement, Low said, he would now spend time with friends.
“I have a lot of catching up to do, as I have been busy working all these years. If there is an opportunity for me to go on tours, I will do that as well.
“I want to have a stress-free life now. This Chinese New Year will be different,” he said.
“Still, we are grateful for all the support gained all these years. Our customers are the reason for our success, and we are humbled to have served our clients.”
