‘Old school’ Foh Sang woos young and old
Published on: Sunday, March 08, 2020
By: Lorena Binisol
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Its facelift last year breathe new life to the old shops but at the same time, maintaining its old-school appearance.
One of the barber shops which has been there for decades continues to serve its long-time customers. The chairs are old-fashioned and the barbers themselves who are advanced in age still loyally serve their customers.
It was thanks to the new generation for instilling new ideas to make the place more energetic and livelier.
With decorative ornaments and graffiti, it somehow has a semblance to Penang’s famous old towns.
Although it is frequented by the older generation, youngsters go there too, either to take their parents or older relatives there, or to patron some popular food outlets there that are available after-hours. The seniors also enjoy having their morning coffee while read newspapers as early as six in the morning there.
According to this writer’s observation, former judges, prominent lawyers and politicians are among the loyal visitors.
“I think the shoplots had been in existence since 1971, a few years after I moved in to the housing in that vicinity in 1976. So, it is likely Foh Sang had been around for almost 50 years now,” said Valentine, a resident there.
Meanwhile, in Donggongon, many efforts had been done to boost its existing landscape. Among the efforts included giving the public toilets a makeover with vibrant colours. It is adjacent to the present weekly Tamu in Donggongon.
“I remember Donggongon town’s latrines where it was near the existing wet market. It stinks to the high heavens. The flowers bloom like anything because of the ‘fertiliser’.
“Thank goodness it (latrines) was pulled down, such a relief to the nostrils,” said Valentine.
He remembered the statue of a Kadazan hero (Datuk Peter Mojuntin) was placed near the latrines. It was, however, relocated to the central part of town.
Thanks to the authorities for initiating its effort to improve every nook and corner of the place, it becomes friendly and more frequented now than before.
However, a resident said making changes is a great thing but maintaining it would be another story.
People’s mentality towards maintaining the place would be crucial. Otherwise, it would go to waste.
“Look at Foh Sang area, although most traders retain their shops as per the olden days, they take cleanliness seriously. Customers do not mind at all whether it is modern or old. What matters is hygiene,” stressed Valentine.
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