EVERY year when Merdeka month arrives, food stall operator Wan Rahimi Wan Mokhtar will become the talk of the town. This is the occasion when the 57-year-old decorates his premises in eye-catching designs to celebrate National Day on Aug 31.
The premises stands out from other eateries in the vicinity and is an eye-catcher for motorists plying Jalan Tanjung Lumpur in Peramu.
Wan Rahimi, fondly known as “Mie Merdeka” said he displayed the Jalur Gemilang flags at every corner of the stall, putting together Merdeka-themed paintings, walls adorned with portraits of Malaysia’s prime ministers, a Jalur Gemilang replica made of recycled plastic bottles, and an arch painted with the word “Merdeka”.
Wan Rahimi’s efforts do not stop there. His antique Mini Cooper car is decorated with various sizes of the Jalur Gemilang and stickers bearing the images of prime ministers on its bonnet while his Suzuki van is painted with the Jalur Gemilang colours.
He said he had been decorating the premises for the past 18 years. Each year, he tries out new ideas to brighten up the premises.
“This year, I will draw a mural featuring the country’s prime ministers. My two friends will assist me. It is expected to be completed next week. Since certain materials are expensive, I prefer to use recycled items. They will be vibrant once painted with the Jalur Gemilang colours.
“I do this as a mark of respect to those who had struggled for (the nation’s) independence and hope the younger generation will become more patriotic. My customers enjoy the surroundings and they never leave the premises without snapping pictures,” he told the New Straits Times.
“People, including veteran soldiers and teachers, would stop by to have a short conversation with me. Besides having their meals or drinks, talking about the Jalur Gemilang-themed premises will be the highlight,” he said, adding that “nasi dagang” was among the popular dishes at his premises which sells breakfast and lunch.
Wan Rahimi, whose premises was picked to represent Pahang on five occasions in the national-level Merdeka Decoration contest, said despite his efforts, there were some who criticised him for wasting his time and money.
“I have spent thousands of ringgit and will continue as long as my health allows me to run my business. I am not bothered (by the criticism) as everyone is free to express their views... I am doing this for self-fulfilment and to show Malaysians that the month of August is special.”