KLANG, May 9 — Klangites were up early to vote and for the foodies, Eng Chun Bak Kut Teh was their preferred destination immediately after casting their votes.

The shop's Taman Sentosa outlet offered 500 bowls of bak kut teh free today to those who voted.

By 8.15am, some 250 people were there to claim what was rightly theirs ― the city’s famous pork ribs dish served in a broth of herbs and spices.

A regular customer who wanted to be known as Lee, 55, said he woke up much earlier than previous elections to claim the treat.

“This is my weekly joint. When I heard that they were giving away free bak kut teh, I couldn’t resist.

“It’s nice to see businesses doing their best to ensure everyone goes out to vote,” he said.

Another voter who came from Kota Kemuning said there’s nothing better than a free meal to start off his day.

“It’s my first time here. A free meal to kick off the GE14 ― we Malaysians couldn’t ask for more.”

The restaurant which runs two outlets ― the other in Taman Berkeley ― opened its doors at 7am today to prepare for the large number of customers.

Co-owner Chia Soon Khing, 40, said he was impressed with the large turnout.

“This shows many Malaysians have done their part, and I’ve done what I can to ensure every vote counts.”

Klang’s most famous dish a hit among residents.
Klang’s most famous dish a hit among residents.

Chia said the shop had given away about 350 bowls of bak kut teh by 9am and was sold out by 10am.

“Due to overwhelming demand we’ve increased the number to 600 free bowls.

“I apologise to the few customers who couldn’t get their free treat as we have run out of bak kut teh.”

The restaurant took to its Facebook page on April 13 to share the good news to voters ahead of Election Day.

All a voter had to do was to show their finger dipped in the indelible ink to enjoy a free bowl of Klang’s most famous dish. 

Unfortunately for some, they could not make it in time for the offer.

Klang is one of the 222 parliamentary seats up for grabs in GE14.

Its candidates are incumbent Charles Santiago from Pakatan Harapan, Barisan Nasional’s Datuk Ching Eu Boon, PAS’ Khairul Shah Abdullah and independent G. Puvananderan.

Chia and his team prepared about 300 bowls in less than two hours.
Chia and his team prepared about 300 bowls in less than two hours.