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Immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Malaysian culture with Sembang Kopitiam, a delightful read that is sure to transport readers on a nostalgic journey through the wonderfully unconventional moments of everyday Malaysian life.
The newly launched book takes on a humorous and quirky yet charming approach, shining light on the colourful and undeniably relatable experiences of everyday Malaysians brought to life through 40 (or 39A, in reference to a local cultural aversion to the number four that is deemed unlucky) amusing yet heartfelt stories.
The brainchild of a talented team of accomplished lecturers from Sunway University, Sembang Kopitiam celebrates the beauty of ordinary life that unite us all through these little moments – from a grandmother’s bold attempt to purchase a snake from a mini-mart to a boy’s RM16.90 toilet saga.
With its name taking after the casual chatter often shared over kopi (coffee) and kaya (coconut jam) toast at the kopitiam (local coffee shops) – the compilation of short stories reflects the vibrant diversity of Malaysia’s shared experiences.
“Perfectly capturing the essence of everyday Malaysian life, Sembang Kopitiam was born out of a desire to preserve and share the rich tapestry of authentic voices of Malaysians for future generations. Here at Sunway University, we take pride in fostering creativity and storytelling, and this book is a testament to the incredible talent and passion of our academic community,” expressed Group CEO of Sunway Education, Professor Dato’ Elizabeth Lee.
Rather than mind-blowing or out-of-the-world stories, these experiences are everyday anecdotes typically heard from a friend, neighbour – or even the chicken rice uncle – shared with that familiar warmth and wit.
The creative minds behind this unique collection are Sunway University lecturers, Professor Adrian Lee Yuen Beng, a seasoned academic and filmmaker, and Bernard Manickam, an award-winning short story writer, bringing their storytelling expertise to the table. Adding a touch of vibrancy and personality to the book with stunning illustrations are fellow Sunway University lecturers, Maslisa Zainuddin, a passionate artist and advocate for upcycled art together with Melissa Ann Marie James, a graphic designer with a flair for visuals that inspire social change.
Perfect for a relaxing afternoon or as a thoughtful gift, Sembang Kopitiam is currently available at Dokusho Bookstore in Ara Damansara, and Gerakbudaya Bookshop in George Town, Penang. Whether you are reminiscing about the good old days or discovering new stories, this book promises to bring laughter, nostalgia, and a sense of connection to all readers.