'Sup Meletup' seller feels like World Cup winner when PM visits stall

Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stopped by for a meal at the stall known for its various types of soup dishes before making his way to the Saidina Othman Ibn Affan Mosque, Bandar Tun Razak, to perform Friday prayers.

Zolkhoari, 50, had been informed about the Prime Minister's visit by a PKR leader two days ago and since then he had been waiting with bated breath.

"Since starting the business in 2002, the others and I never imagined that a person who holds the title of the country's number one leader would stop by and enjoy our specials.

"When I saw Datuk Seri Anwar get out of the car and walk to our stall, only God knows how I felt ... it was like winning the World Cup," he told Bernama when met after the Prime Minister had left.

Zolkhoari said to ensure the smooth operation of his stall during the Prime Minister's visit, he had asked for help from 10 workers from his two premises in other places to help the 10 existing workers.

"I was quite touched and proud to see the Prime Minister slurping the 'bihun sup' served and also sampling the deliciousness of 'satar' and also 'satay', which are among the 'killer dishes' of our stall," he said.

Zolkhoari, who is also Bandar Sri Permaisuri Food Court Vendor Association chairman, said he took the opportunity to submit an application to Anwar to expand the parking lot and add a roof to the open space in front of the premises operating in the food court.

He said the 34 existing parking lots are not enough to accommodate the presence of customers, especially during peak hours, considering that there are 30 business premises operating there.

"Alhamdulillah, the Prime Minister acknowledged the issues I raised and will extend our request to the relevant authorities," he said.