Chef expresses pride Sarawak Laksa is PM's choice

"I feel a sense of pride and this may be my way of introducing Sarawak's signature dish to the people."

That was the reaction of chef Ahid Bohri, 60, when asked on how he felt about being chosen to prepare a dish of udang galah (giant prawn) Sarawak laksa for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak last night.

According to him, this was the second time the Prime Minister had savoured the special dish prepared by him after the first time last year.

"Sarawak Deputy State Secretary Datuk Misnu Taha informed me the Prime Minister wants to once again eat udang galah Sarawak laksa.

"So I was asked to prepare 31 bowls of udang galah Sarawak laksa last night," he told Bernama here today.

Upon arrival here last night, Najib made a walkabout at the Kubah Ria, which is situated by the banks of the Sarawak River.

Later he enjoyed local dishes such as Sarawak laksa, kolok mee and sotong tutok (tapped octopus).

With an experience of over 10 years in the culinary field, Ahid said he felt proud that the 'must have' dish is the prime minister's choice.

"What distinguishes my Sarawak laksa with others is the original paste used which was made by the first Sarawak laksa paste trader in the state," he said.

In preparing the special dish for the Prime Minister, the father of six said he was assisted by his son.

"I sell a bowl of Sarawak laksa at RM5 per bowl. Udang galah Sarawak laksa is sold according to its weight at RM10 per 100 grams," said Ahid, who owns three stalls in and around Kuching city.