GEORGE TOWN, April 3 — Penang lost a local culinary icon today with the passing of Ang Kak Seong, the owner of the renowned Air Itam Market Laksa stall, at the age of 77.

Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng shared the news on Facebook, offering his condolences to Ang’s family.

“Deepest condolences to Ang’s family on the loss of their beloved father. He was surrounded by his loving family at the time of his passing,” Ng wrote.

He added, “We will miss the sight of him standing in front of his stall, serving hot and delicious laksa to customers.”

Ang’s stall gained international recognition when it was featured on CNN’s World’s 50 Best Foods list in 2020, with Penang asam laksa ranked seventh.

The business, started by Ang’s parents and operating for 66 years, faced challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic and temporary closure in May 2021 due to declining sales and his son’s debts.

It later reopened in December 2021 after a six-month hiatus.