The 46-year-old, who is popularly known as “Abang Tingkap”, shared that he started his business at Arked Pokok Assam 1 after suffering from chronic venous ulcers last year. The condition makes it difficult for him to stand for long periods.

This has left him with no choice but to earn a living on his own, relying on his cooking skills to support his family.

“I don’t want to trouble any employer. This illness really affects me since I can’t stand for long,” he said.

Shortly after starting his business last August, the name Abang Tingkap went viral. Today, Ramli has three workers helping him as he prepares hot meals such as as fried rice, char kuey teow and fried noodles.

He credits social media for helping his business grow, but noted that his success is largely thanks to his wife, who gives him strength.

Still, Ramli admits that life “isn’t always comfortable”, saying: “There were days when we didn’t even get a single order. At one point, I thought of giving up when we ran out of money, and we had to survive on ikan bilis and eggs.

“But I don’t want pity,” he stressed. “As long as I can, I will keep trying. I want to prove that even with limitations, we can still earn a living.”

Ramli added that he is very grateful for the support of customers and fellow traders in Langkawi.

“Thanks to my business, I can earn a living, pay rent and have enough capital. Most importantly, I don’t have to depend on handouts.”

Follow Abang Tingkap Langkawi on Facebook.

Abang Tingkap
Restoran Arked Pokok Assam 1,
Persiaran Bunga Raya,
Kuah, Kedah