Malaysia's First Kopitiam Awarded the La Commanderie des Cordons Bleus de France Medal
The Hainanese in Malaysia hold their homeland close to their hearts, naming their establishment Hainan Village. Nestled on Pangkor Island, located on the southwest coast of Perak, Malaysia, this kopitiam draws deep connections to its roots. Pangkor Island is not only renowned as one of Malaysia's most beautiful islands but also celebrated for its warm and friendly community.
Hainan Village inception is deeply intertwined with the essence of Hainanese tea houses on Pangkor Island. Julie, the founder and a proud Hainanese, fondly recalls her father’s fishing days. From a young age, she loved spending time in Hainanese kopitiam, sipping on Hainanese coffee, and ordering an extra cup for her father, awaiting his safe return from the sea.
This aromatic cup of Hainanese coffee is more than just a beverage; it embodies the warmth of familial bonds and the joy of life shared between father and daughter. For the local residents, it holds irreplaceable significance—a traditional flavor that evokes cherished memories and a sense of belonging.
Cherish the Earth and Animals, Savor a Meatless Feast
Growing up on an island, Julie, our founder, was raised by a fisherman father and a devoted mother. Her mother, a woman of simplicity and care, always wished for the safety and health of her family. Thus, on the first and fifteenth of each lunar month, she prepared only vegetarian meals. This practice was not only a prayer for family wellbeing but also an encouragement for a healthier diet rich in vegetables and legumes.
Aware that meatless dishes might seem bland, her mother diligently experimented with sauces and cooking techniques, using a variety of ingredients to make each vegetarian dish delectable and visually appealing. These meals, bursting with flavor, quickly became family favorites, and the days of vegetarian feasts turned into highly anticipated occasions for Julie’s father.
Julie decided to infuse her mother’s deep maternal love into Hainan Village. By blending traditional recipes with modern cooking methods and incorporating spice-rich sauces, she crafts dishes that are both delicious and healthy. At Hainan Village, every meal is prepared with a commitment to protecting the earth and caring for animals. Come to Hainan Village and let this love nourish your palate.
Unity Among Three Races
With a history spanning 60 years, the most remarkable aspect of the Hainanese kopitiam is its inclusive atmosphere. Not only Chinese patrons, but also friends from other ethnic communities gather under one roof, enjoying coffee and meals together in perfect harmony. This warm and welcoming scene, with every cup of coffee, every slice of bread, and every shared laugh, is deeply imprinted in Julie’s memory.
Julie is dedicated to preserving the flavors and the warm, inclusive atmosphere of the original kopitiam. She hopes that Hainan Village will continue to evoke these cherished memories, allowing those in Kuala Lumpur to relive the tastes and warmth of their hometown.
Awards and Honors
