SlideShare a Scribd company logo
1 of 39
1
School of Architecture, Building and Design 
Foundation in Natural and Built Environment [FNBE] 
English II 
Ms. Cassandra 
English Final Project – Research Assignment Report 
FNBE February 2014 
Group member : 
Amos Tan Chi Yi 0318330 
Chia Sue Hwa 0317920 
Nor Syarianna Neo 0318236 
Neoh Jia Wen 0318228 
Foo Shi-Ko 0318262 
Muhammad Amir bin Azmi 0318091 
2
Table of Contents 
No. 
Title 
Page number 
1. 
Artistic cover 
1 
2. 
Cover page 
2 
3. 
Table of contents 
3 
3 
4. 
Key Summary 
2.1 Location 
2.2 The Team 
2.3 The Assignment 
2.4 Research Questions 
2.5 Methodology 
4 - 6 
5. 
Research report 
a. Description of the history of trade. 
b. Description of the business. 
c. Comparative Analysis. 
7 – 9 
10 – 12 
13 – 21 
6. 
Recommendations 
22– 23 
7. 
Bibliography 
24 
8. 
Appendices 
25 – 38 
9. 
References 
39
Key Summary 
4 
4.2.1 Location 
Considering both Bak Kut Teh restaurants are situated in two entirely different districts, the geographical 
difference between the two create many points of comparison to our advantage. The first one we visited on a 
one-day road trip to Tanjung Sepat, a small town in Kuala Langat, Selangor. Located along the Straits of 
Malacca, it is primarily a fishing town specialising as a source of fresh seafood to its inhabitants and also as 
exportation. Namely, the *** is a simple, open-air restaurant directly by the side of an internal road in town, a 
clever spot to attract their desired market. 
On the other hand, the second restaurant we visited was 15 minutes away from our campus: SS14, a large 
commercial and residential enclave located just off the busy Persiaran Kewajiban and NPE Highway in Subang 
Jaya. Nestled in a row of shop lots also distinguished for several other Bak Kut Teh restaurants, the 
surroundings of Restoran Ah Ping is frequently crowded with residents and office staff parking their cars, 
looking for a good meal. Although slightly cramped and hidden, this restaurant is certainly strategic in terms of 
location. 
4.2.2 The Team 
A six-man team, we were rather well-equipped in terms of manpower and skill set specialisation. Amos Tan, the 
commanding leader was largely in charge of managing our overall tasks, while Anna and Sue assisted and 
handled main research and presentation of information for the report and slides. Shi-Ko and Kayla took charge 
of information recording and further research whereas Amir assisted in recording and as an extra hand to help 
out in any task. During the period of data collection, namely the interviews, all members played an active role in 
recording information. Not to forget frequent inputs and opinions from everyone during all stages of the 
assignment.
5 
4.2.3 The Assignment 
Comparative research as the core methodology, the task for each group study two trades or businesses of the 
same type in any part of Peninsula Malaysia and the Klang Valley. As the focus, these two examples were 
analyzed through a combination of both primary sources e.g. interviews and data obtained through 
questionnaires while on the site visit and also secondary sources, such as printed media and the internet. Our 
team delegated our tasks accordingly and evenly during collection and presentation of information. 
4.2.4 Research Questions 
Referred and modified from the appendix in the assignment brief, the following are a few examples of questions 
that were used for the comparative study between the two Bak Kut Teh Restaurants. 
A. Brief Description of the Businesses 
i) What are the names of the businesses? 
ii) Where are the current locations of the businesses? 
iii) Number of branches? 
B. Comparative Analysis of the Businesses’ Competitive Traits 
i) Number of competitors in their respective geographical markets; 
ii) What are the brief bios of each business’ top 3 competitors? 
iii) How do the businesses compete with their competitors? What strategies were/are employed, and how 
successful are they?
6 
4.2.5 Methodology 
4.2.5.1 Data Collection 
Interviews were conducted with the managers at each Bak Kut Teh restaurant through physical visits on two 
separate occasions. Readily equipped with the necessities such as a camera for video recording and photos, 
mobile phone for additional voice recording and stationary for interview notes, we were well prepared and did 
not come across any major obstacles. We also printed out the interview questions and held sufficient 
discussions beforehand to prepare us intellectually. Furthermore, language barriers did not pose as a challenge 
as we have a multi- lingual team, members who can communicate fluently in both Mandarin and Cantonese 
dialect as well as English and Bahasa Melayu. 
4.2.5.2 Data Presentation 
By the end of the assignment, presenting a written report as well as a verbal presentation meant effective 
communication of the information we gathered. Put to work, we collectively analysed the similarities and 
differences between the two restaurants and split up the sub-topics amongst ourselves to further analyse, 
tabulate and research specifically. This method of delegation worked for us because it lessened the burden on 
every member while ensuring an assortment of quality work. Lastly, we edited the report to ensure it contained 
the most accurate facts and format before submission. After completing most of the report, we then started to 
filter information to place on the Powerpoint slides for our oral presentation. Following that, we practiced and 
drilled our knowledge on our own subtopics to be presented with the help of each other until we could rehearse 
it fluently.
Research Report 
7 
A. Description of the history of trade. 
If there is one subject that intrigues the people staying in Klang, it would be the debate on the best bak kut teh 
served in Klang Valley. There are those who would swear by a particular shop that they frequently patronise 
and others who have tried a few shops here and there and stuck to the best of the lot. These food lovers will 
scrutinise every single aspect of the dish, down to how strong the herbal taste should be in the soup or how thick 
the gravy should be. We found this to be true as certain people who enjoy this dish only frequent their favourite 
shop and do not go to other shops. 
Bak kut teh is believed to have originated from the Fujian province of China. The introduction of the dish to 
Singapore and Malaysia is attributed to Hokkien immigrants who moved to this region in the 19th century. The 
dish is said to have been popular with the Chinese coolies as a hearty breakfast before embarking on their 
backbreaking tasks of the day. 
Bak kut teh is a soup based dish consisting of different cuts of pork meat simmered in a herb based broth for 
hours. Most shops will normally use pork ribs, but they are also known to include other cuts of pork into the 
herbal broth as well. Meat from other parts tend to be softer and delicate compared to meat from the pork ribs, 
though most of it will just melt away as soon as it is spooned into the mouth. The herbs and spices that are 
normally used to give it that distinct taste are star anise, cinnamon, cloves, female ginseng (locally known as 
dong guai), fennel seeds and garlic, which is boiled for hours together with the selected cuts of meat. The meat 
becomes infused with all the flavours from the herbs and spices, and the sweetness from the meat seeps into the 
broth, mellowing the tangy and sharp taste of the herbs. Other ingredients commonly found in a bowl of bak kut 
teh are mushrooms, fried tofu puffs, pieces of dried tofu and iceberg lettuce. 
There are numerous variants of bak kut teh with its cooking style closely influenced by the prevailing Chinese 
enclave of a certain geographical location. 
Singapore Bak Kut Teh has three popular types which are the Teochew style, which is light in color but uses 
more pepper and garlic in the soup. The second being the Hoklo (Hokkien), who prefer saltier food, use more
soy sauce resulting in a darker soup. The third being the Cantonese, with a soup-drinking culture, add medicinal 
herbs to create a stronger flavoured soup. 
Malaysian Bak Kut Teh, is usually in a dry form and has also recently become increasingly popular, especially 
in Klang town. Although called dry, the broth is in fact reduced to a thicker gravy, to which other ingredients 
such as wolfberries, dried dates, dried chillies and dried squid are added. Unlike the original rib soup, the dry 
version has a tangier, sharper taste and is more akin to a herbal stew than the classical broth. It is often 
recommended locally in Malaysia as an excellent hangover cure. A less fatty variation of bak kut teh made with 
chicken instead of pork is called chik kut teh. It also serves as a halal version of the dish catered to Muslims, 
whose religion forbids them to consume pork. 
Throughout the years, creative traders have come to realize that some patrons do welcome the idea of having 
side dishes along with the main dish. It is now common to find these restaurants now offering dishes like 
blanched iceberg lettuce drizzled with a mixture of oyster sauce, fried shallots and a little bit of the oil from the 
fried shallots and other dishes to their customers. The restaurateurs also offer additional ingredients like enoki 
mushrooms, chicken feet, fried strips of 
dough or locally known as youtiao for dipping into the soup or even meatballs at additional prices. It is 
normally eaten with fragrant rice and sprinkles of fried shallots and raw garlic. Some shops also serve it with 
yam rice as an alternative to plain rice. To pique the interests of bak kut teh lovers, another version of this dish 
was introduced. The broth is boiled and reduced to a thicker gravy and contains added ingredients like dried 
chilli and dried squid. As a result, the gravy is darker in colour, has a spicy aftertaste with a distinct aroma from 
the dried squid. This style is fast gaining popularity, especially in Klang. There is now even a dish called Chik 
Kut Teh, which substitutes chicken for pork. The dish was introduced during the Nipah virus outbreak in 
Malaysia, which caused many locals to be wary of consuming pork. 
It is fascinating to see how a simple dish like this became a famous and widely eaten staple in Malaysia. This 
dish was supposed to be a nourishing dish for Chinese coolies who came to Port Klang to work during the 
British colonial era. Herbs and spices said to be good for health were gathered, with pork added to add flavour 
to the broth, resulting in this dish. Hot tea is always drunk together with this meal as it is believed that the high 
8
amount of fats in the dish is removed because the tea is able to flush out excess oil from within the body. Most 
bak kut teh lovers will request extra bowls of soup. Some shops are very generous with their soup, obliging 
customers with their repeated requests. Others will kindly but firmly tell the customers that soup refills are 
limited as it is very precious. There are even rumours that some of the soup pots are continuously refilled with 
fresh soup everyday, to keep the intense flavours from the day before inside the pot, thereby making it even 
more mouth-watering. 
9
10 
5.b. Description of Businesses 
i. Restaurant Ah Hock Bak Kut The 
Restoran Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh is well known for its seafood Bak Kut Teh and it is a must-visit for those who 
crave for a taste of fresh catch. It is located in Tanjung Sepat, a fishing village situated in between Banting and 
Sepang in Selangor. The restaurant is actually an old wooden shop which does not have elegant decoration, air 
conditioner, comfortable tables and chairs. The shop is extremely rustic and run-down, with rusty zinc roofs, 
rotten wooden columns and without walls. They don’t even have a proper menu too but the taste of the food 
will be another story. 
Seafood Bak Kut Teh, a type of Bak Kut Teh that is the least found in Malaysia. It is special as it combine the 
traditional Chinese dish with the abundance of fresh seafood, to create Bak Kut Teh featuring not only pork, but 
fish, crab as well as prawn. Sungai Pelek which located 20km away from Tanjung Sepat, has become the key 
supply of pork for the 12 years and meanwhile, Tanjung Sepat as a fishing village support its freshest catch. The 
sweetness of seafood flavor makes the broth tasty but it won’t cause awkwardness when it combines with pork. 
Before entering the business of selling Bak Kut Teh, Mr Cheah Song Qing, the founder used to rear pigs as a 
living, but the income of rearing pigs was too low to support the family. Thus, in 1999, Mr Cheah decided to 
open up a new business and sell Seafood Bak Kut Teh in Kuala Lumpur. He combined the traditional chinese 
delicacy with the specialty seafood. In 2002, he decided to move his business to Tanjung Sepat where it still 
remains in operation. 
Since Tanjung Sepat is a tourist attraction, most of the tourist have their lunch in Restaurant Ah Hock Bak Kut 
Teh. Meanwhile, most of the residence in Tanjung Sepat flood the restaurant during breakfast as they always 
sold out before 12.30p.m. There is approximately 50 customers daily and fluctuating to 80 customers during 
holiday period because the visiting of more tourist. Restaurant Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh open for business at 
7.00a.m. and usually closed by 12.30p.m. It is the busiest Bak Kut Teh restaurant at Tanjung Sepat as the 
parking space is always breeze at the peak breakfast hour.
There is only one competitor in the area which is Restaurant Yi Kee Seafood Bak Kut Teh. However, 
Restaurant Yi Kee Seafood Bak Kut Teh is not as popular as Restaurant Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh. Restaurant Ah 
Hock Bak Kut Teh has been featured in on the internet websites and blogs, newspaper articles and reviews and 
even Tanjung Sepat Tourism Brochure. Besides, Restaurant Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh has a newer and better 
constructed building than Restaurant Yi Kee Seafood Bak Kut Teh. To handle the competition in business, 
Restaurant Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh cooperate with the other competitor by innovating and creating new dishes. 
Although the interior and exterior of Restaurant Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh are rusty, the taste of the seafood Bak 
Kut Teh will never rust in every customer’s heart. 
11 
ii. Retaurant Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh 
Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh is one of the earliest Bak Kut Teh restaurants in Subang Jaya, with a combined* 
operation time of around 13 years. Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh is located in SS14, Subang Jaya, in what is locally 
called “Bak Kut Teh Jie” (Bak Kut Teh Row), so called because of the abundance of Bak Kut Teh restaurants 
there. 
Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh has a rich history that started way before the restaurant’s current reincarnation in Subang 
Jaya. According to the current owner, the elder brother of the founder had actually started his own Bak Kut Teh 
business and was doing well. This inspired the founder to open up a stall in Subang Jaya to help sell Bak Kut 
Teh ini 1989. When he first started, it was nothing more than a stall in a hawker centre. After years of work, 
they had enough capital to open up their own restaurant in 2004, and have been in operation ever since. 
Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh prides itself in selling only Bak Kut Teh, vegetables and Chinese tea. It is a very 
specialized restaurant, with the owner proudly boasting that “they don’t know how to make anything other than 
Bak Kut Teh.” Thus, it is of no surprise that the Bak Kut Teh served there is critically acclaimed, with many 
bloggers and reviewers proclaiming it as the “best in Subang Jaya, and maybe even the Klang Valley.” Ah Ping 
Bak Kut Teh is often frequented by the locals in Subang Jaya, and the restaurant can always be seen packed full 
of its loyal patrons, especially during a rainy evening or during dinner hours. According to the interviewee, a 
whopping 300 customers visit the restaurant during the weekdays, and up to an incredible 500 customers are 
served during both weekends. Amazing still is the fact that the restaurant is operated by a small staff of 6. The 
owner has expressed no intention of expansion.
The restaurant’s location in Bak Kut Teh Row in SS14 makes it face stiff competition from 5 d ifferent Bak Kut 
Teh restaurants in the very near vicinity; they are Yu Kee Bak Kut Teh, Wing Hiong Bak Kut Teh, Chuan 
Chiew Bak Kut Teh, Chuan Bak Kut Teh and Da De Bak Kut Teh. Although three of them are relatively 
inferior to Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh in terms of price, food and value, Chuan Chiew Bak Kut Teh and Yu Kee Bak 
Kut Teh are competitive with the restaurant, with their own offerings closely matching Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh’s 
offerings. In addition, they are also in direct competition of a chicken rice shop called Jia Siang. Although both 
restaurants are offering completely different foods, the customers are known to be swayed by both types of food. 
As the customers for chicken rice are known to have a liking for Bak Kut Teh, and vice versa, it is clear to see 
that these two restaurants, however different, are in direct competition with each other. 
To combat this threat, Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh is placing its faith in the uniqueness of its food. While the servings 
are plentiful with a lot of delicious pork, it is the unique method of Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh that has won the 
hearts and stomachs of its customers, so said the interviewee. “I can give you the recipe, or even give you a 
pack of all the ingredients,” she said. “But without the method your result will be completely inferior to what 
we have.” Indeed, the main appeal of Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh is not the servings, the price or the friendliness of 
the staff. It is the particular aroma and delicious taste of its Bak Kut Teh that gave the restaurant the edge. 
12
13 
C. Comparative Analysis 
Item 
Ah Hock Seafood Bak Kut Teh 
Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh 
i. Competitors 
There is only one competitor in the 
area, 
Yi Kee Seafood Bak Kut Teh. 
There are five other Bak Kut Teh restaurants 
in close proximity: Yu Kee Bak Kut Teh, 
Wing Hiong Bak Kut Teh, Chuan Chiew Bak 
Kut Teh, Chuan Bak Kut Teh and Da De Bak 
Kut Teh. In addition, a popular chicken rice 
shop is also in direct competition: Jia Siang 
Chicken Rice. 
ii. Brief 
Descriptions of 
Competitors 
1. Yi Kee Seafood Bak Kut Teh 
- Not as famous as Ah Hock Seafood 
Bak Kut Teh, isn’t featured in 
brochures or newspaper articles. 
- The building is newer and better 
constructed. 
- The prices are roughly the same as Ah 
Hock Seafood Bak Kut Teh. 
1. Yu Kee Bak Kut Teh 
- Has decent Bak Kut Teh, with attractive 
price. 
- Located in a corner store on the street. 
- Popular among the locals. 
- Business hours are exactly the same. 
2. Wing Hiong Bak Kut Teh 
- Generally accepted among the locals that 
this restaurant has inferior Bak Kut Teh. 
- The prices are cheap, but poor in value. 
- Not a popular restaurant.
14 
3. Chuan Bak Kut Teh 
- The taste is decent overall. 
- Price is slightly higher than Ah Ping Bak 
Kut Teh 
- Relatively popular with locals. 
4. Da De Bak Kut Teh 
- Better furnished than the rest, with 
professionally done menus. 
- However, it is not popular with the locals, 
citing inferior taste and expensive prices. 
5. Chuan Chiew Bak Kut Teh 
- Decent Bak Kut Teh with good price. 
6. Jia Siang Chicken Rice 
- Extremely popular with the locals. 
- Delicious chicken rice widely known to be 
the best in Subang Jaya at a cheap price. 
- Always packed during its long opening 
hours. 
iii. Competition 
strategies 
1.Pricing 
-Actively collaborates with competitor 
to ensure prices are the same. 
- Sets its prices cheaper than the average in 
the area. 
2.Advertisement
- Featured on the Tanjung Sepat 
Tourism Brochure. 
- Featured in newspaper articles and 
reviews. 
- Featured on internet websites and 
blogs. 
- Favourite among locals, advertised 
via word of mouth. 
15 
- Featured on internet websites and blogs. 
- Favourite among locals, advertised via word 
of mouth. 
3.Signature Dish 
- Their Seafood Bak Kut Teh is 
claimed to be their own invention. 
They combine the traditional Chinese 
dish with the abundance of fresh 
seafood found in Tanjung Sepat, to 
create Bak Kut Teh featuring not only 
pork, but fish, crab as well as prawn. 
- Although Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh features a no 
frills package, their signature Bak Kut Teh is 
highly renown among the locals, with people 
praising its particular taste and aroma due to 
its different methods of preparation, the details 
of which are a closely guarded trade secret. 
4.Quality of Service 
- The family owned and family 
operated restaurant is incredibly 
friendly, with the owners sometimes 
sitting down with the customers to 
chat. 
- Service is extremely quick, fast and efficient. 
In the busy city, there is no time for 
chitchatting, and their quality and method of 
service is designed to keep the customers 
moving.
16 
iv. What are the 
obstacles faced by 
the new 
businesses? 
The sheer amount of effort required to 
set up a Bak Kut Teh business is 
incredible, requiring hundreds of hours 
of planning and execution. This has 
scared away new businesses. 
The oversaturation of the Bak Kut Teh 
industry in Subang Jaya has made any attempt 
at opening a new business incredibly difficult. 
In order to compete, they have to create a 
unique signature dish, at an attractive price, 
while simultaneously building up an online 
presence. In addition, Subang Jaya customers 
are also known to be extremely critical and 
sharp-tongued, and would not hesitate to 
criticize any new restaurant for the most trivial 
of failures. 
Both businesses also cited the large capital needed to open a new business in their 
respective areas. 
v. Nature 
of 
Market 
- Oligopoly. Competition is stagnant 
due to cooperation between Ah Hock 
Seafood Bak Kut Teh and its 
competitor. 
- Perfectly competitive. Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh 
is operating at place full of competitors, and 
needs to be at the top of their game in order to 
survive.
vi. Summary Table of Similarities and Difference between two restaurants. 
Ah Hock Seafood Bak Kut Teh 
Similarities 
17 
Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh 
Seafood Bak Kut Teh 
Main products sold 
Bak Kut Teh 
5 Employees, all of them local 
and part of the owner’s family 
Workers 
6 Employees, all of them local 
Shortsighted 
Future plan 
Shortsighted 
None 
Current branches 
None
Ah Hock Seafood Bak Kut Teh 
Differences 
Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh 
18 
Mr. Cheah Song Qing, the founder of 
the business used to rear pigs for a 
living, but the income was too low, thus 
prompting Mr. Cheah to open a new 
business and sell Seafood Bak Kut Teh, 
offering a unique take on the traditional 
Chinese dish. They first started 
operations in 1999 in Kuala Lumpur, 
and move to Tanjung Sepat in 2002, 
where it still remains in operation. 
Founder and 
History 
The elder brother of the founder had 
actually started his own successful 
business. This inspired the founder to 
open up a stall in Subang Jaya to help sell 
Bak Kut Teh ini 1989. When he first 
started, it was nothing more than a stall in 
a hawker centre. After years of work, they 
had enough capital to open up their own 
restaurant in SS14 in 2004, and have been 
in operation ever since. 
Ah Hock Seafood Bak Kut Teh is 
located in Tanjung Sepat. It looks like 
a shack, with rusty zinc plating 
covering this building without walls. 
Address: 
Ah Hock Seafood Bak Kut The, 
Lot 2260, Lorong 7, 
Jalan Besar 45300, Tanjung Sepat, 
Selangor, Malaysia 
Location 
Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh is located in SS14, 
Subang Jaya, along a stretch of road 
locally known as “Bak Kut Teh Jie” (Bak 
Kut Teh Row). The restaurant is a proper, 
clean building. 
Address: 
AH PING BAK KUT TEH 
42, Jalan SS14/2 
47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor
19 
Seafood Bak Kut Teh, rice, vegetables, 
oil sticks and tea. 
Types of products 
sold 
Pork Bak Kut Teh, rice, vegetables, oil 
sticks and tea. 
Half day, 7AM – 12:30PM 
Business hour 
Evenings only, 5PM – 9PM 
Entirely family-owned and family 
operated. Three generations are 
currently operating the restaurant. 
Business operation 
Started with help from family, currently 
only the owner is handling the operations. 
Staff are hired. 
About 50 + customers daily, 
fluctuating to 80 during holiday 
periods. 
Number of 
customers 
About 300 customers on weekdays, and 
up to 500 on weekends. 
The locals and tourists. 
Targeted market 
The locals only. 
Featured in Tanjung Sepat Tourist 
Brochure, internet blogs and 
newspaper articles. 
Media 
Featured in internet blogs only. 
Cooperate with the other competitor, 
innovate and create new dishes. 
Combating 
competition 
Focus on their unique “Ah Ping Bak Kut 
Teh taste”
20 
Extremely rustic and run-down, with 
rusty zinc roofs, rotten wooden 
columns and without walls. 
Restaurant layout 
and atmosphere 
Relatively modern. Situated in a proper 
terrace building, with fans, clean walls 
and the like. 
Around RM400,000 
Annual Revenue 
Around RM500,000
21 
Vii. Conclusion 
According to the aforementioned analysis, these two businesses are in many ways completely different. Yes, 
both of them sell Bak Kut Teh, are popular to the locals and are heavily featured online. However, that’s where 
the similarities end. These restaurants are incredibly specialized for their local market. Ah Hock Seafood Bak 
Kut Teh offers a more homely, authentic and rustic atmosphere because it is suitable for the quiet and tranquil 
town of Tanjung Sepat, where its customers aren’t in a hurry, aren’t particular and are closely knit with each 
other. Whereas Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh focuses on speed and efficiency, offering delicious food and good value 
with fast service because of its location in Subang Jaya, a fast-paced city where everybody is in a hurry yet 
expects the absolute best for their hard-earned money. 
Addressing the elephant in the room is the fact that these restaurants are offering different products. Seafood 
Bak Kut Teh is admittedly an acquired taste, and certainly isn’t for the “landdwellers” in the Klang Valley. A 
person from Subang Jaya will not necessarily enjoy the seafood in its Bak Kut Teh, and would prefer the vanilla 
unadulterated Bak Kut Teh offered by Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh. Vice versa for a person from Tanjung Sepat, 
where he has spent his entire life near the sea. 
The difference in competition is also massive, with both restaurants adopting different strategies to combat it. 
Ah Hock Seafood Bak Kut Teh has limited competition, going as far as to cooperate with said competitor. This 
effectively creates an oligopoly. In contrast, Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh faces extreme competition from five 
different Bak Kut Teh restaurants as well as a chicken rice restaurant. Besides, these restaurants are only in the 
same district; there are a lot more restaurants found in the surrounding districts of SS15, SS19 and SS18, with 
another famous and popular Bak Kut Teh restaurant in SS18. 
Overall, it is impossible to consider which restaurant has more business potential; both restaurants are designed 
to run specifically to meet the requirements of their respective markets.
Recommendations 
Based on our analysis regarding the two restaurants, Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh and Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh, we have 
proposed a few recommendations to further improve their competitiveness in the future. 
22 
A. Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh Restaurant 
Current Area of Improvement 
Recommendation 
Stagnant expansion of restaurant branches. 
The family owners of the restaurant could consider 
plans of further developing one or more branches to 
other nearby towns that lack variety in food. This way, 
entirely new sources of income are made possible. 
Regularity of dish choices in the menu. 
The chefs could attempt at introducing an array of 
fresh recipes that still encompass the specialties of the 
restaurant, besides remaining the original menu. This 
move could possibly introduce new customer groups 
and increase the popularity of the restaurant. 
Stuffy and dark atmosphere of restaurant 
Owners should upgrade the physical outlook of the 
restaurant structure by converting it into an indoor 
building, to rid the hot and humid afternoons. 
Installing air-conditioning and better lighting might 
also encourage and increase customer satisfaction.
23 
. 
B. Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh Restaurant 
Current Area of Improvement 
Recommendation 
Short opening hours. 
Restaurant owners could look into lengthening the 
operating hours to include lunchtime.Reason being, 
the lunch crowd in the urban residential area is 
immense due to nearby offices, which could 
bringabout significant profit. 
Regularity of dish choices in the existing menu. . 
Restaurant chefs could introduce new dishes to create 
morevariety in the existing menu while still retaining 
the original quality. This would definitely draw in a 
wider assortment of food enthusiasts in the city who 
are searching for authentic, different tastes. 
Hot and cramped environment in the restaurant. 
To differ themselves from the several other 
competitor restaurants in the shop lot, the owners 
could consider occupying the unit next to their 
current one. Thus, a spacious and well-ventilated 
surrounding would provide more comfortable 
surroundings to the customers.
Bibliography 
1. Robyn, E. (2008). Food & Drink. Australia, AUS : Kuala Lumpur, Melaka & Penang. 
2. James. P. (2010). Seafood Handbook. Hoboken, New Jersey : John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 
3. Terry. T. (2003). Shiok! Exciting Tropical Asian Flavors, Joo Seng Road, Singapore: Priplus Edition 
(HK) Ltd 
24
Appendix 
A compilation of handwritten documents and photos that were involved in the process of studying and 
comparing the two Bak Kut Teh restaurants. 
A. Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh Restaurant, Tanjung Sepat. 
Close up of the front entrance or side opening of Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh Restaurant 
25 
I. Photos 
Yu Kee Bak Kut Teh 
Restaurant, one of Ah 
Hock’s nearby 
competitors.
A panoramic shot of Ah Hock Restaurant’s interior atmosphere – 
rather informal and traditional 
Some articles taken from 
newspaper complimenting 
and promoting the 
restaurant's well-known 
Seafood Bah Kut Teh. 
26
27 
II. Documents 
Above: Printed interview questions and handwritten notes.
28 
B. Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh Restaurant 
I. Photos 
Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh Restaurant, frontal view. 
The long façade of the restaurant is reminiscent of traditional shop houses, which maintains its traditional aspect.
Restoran Yu Kee and Restoran Ming Siang Bak Kut Teh, nearby competitors of Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh. 
A group photo with the founder of Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh, 
Mr. Lim Wei Ing and his wife. 
29
30 
II. Documents 
III. Namecard 
Above: Printed interview questions and handwritten notes.
31 
MINUTES OF MEETING (1) 
DATE 25th October 2014 
TIME 4:23 PM 
VENUE E3.09, Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus 
ATTENDEES: 
NAMES OF GROUP MEMBERS TUTORIAL GROUP ROLE 
Amos Tan Chi Yi Wednesday N/A 
Chia Sue Hwa Wednesday N/A 
Kayla Neoh Jia Wen Wednesday N/A 
Mohammad Amir Azmi Wednesday N/A 
Anna Neo Wednesday N/A 
Foo Shi-ko Wednesday N/A 
MINUTES 
NO. ACTIVITY DETAILS 
1. Introduction Details of brief discussed and made clear 
2. Discussion 
of execution 
Details of how to proceed were discussed and determined. 
(See Table 1.1) 
3. Delegation 
of Duties 
Duties and details of duties were made clear and delegated to every 
member. (See Table 1.2) 
4. End Meeting adjourned. 
APPENDIX: 
TABLE 1.1: SCHEDULE OF EXECUTION 
DATE ACTION 
By 8/11 Selection and interview appointment of Out of Klang Valley (OKV) business. 
8/11 Interview of OKV business. 
By 15/11 Selection and interview appointment of In Klang Valley (IKV) business. 
15/11 Interview of IKV business.
32 
TABLE 1.2: DELEGATION OF DUTY 
NAMES ROLE 
Amos Tan Chi Yi Leader / Transport / Secretary 
Chia Sue Hwa Research / Recording / Interviewer 
Kayla Neoh Jia Wen Research / Report writing 
Mohammad Amir Azmi Recording / Report writing 
Foo Shi-ko Report writing / Presentation 
Anna Neo Research / Presentation / Interviewer
33 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING (2) 
DATE: 7th November 2014 
TIME: 10:32 AM 
VENUE: Outside Library, Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus 
DETAILS: 
MEETING CALLED BY: Chia Sue Hwa 
NOTES TAKEN BY: Amos Tan 
SUBJECT: Regarding Preparation of Trip to OKV Business. 
ATTENDEES: 
NAME TUTORIAL GROUP ROLE 
Amos Tan Chi Yi Wednesday Leader / Transport / Secretary 
Chia Sue Hwa Wednesday Research / Recording / Interviewer 
Kayla Neoh Jia Wen Wednesday Research / Report writing 
Mohammad Amir Azmi Wednesday Recording / Report writing 
Anna Neo Wednesday Report writing / Presentation 
Foo Shi-ko Wednesday Research / Presentation / Interviewer 
MINUTES: 
NO. ACTIVITY DETAILS 
1. Introduction Brief of current situation. 
2. Discussion 
of business 
Business located and interview appointed. Discussion and creation of 
itinerary. (See Table 2.1) 
3 Delegation 
of Duties 
Duties and details of duties were made clear and delegated to every 
member. (See Table 2.2) 
4. Discussion 
of logistics 
Things to bring, transport arrangement and things to do discussed 
and set. (See Table 2.3) 
5. End Meeting adjourned.
34 
APPENDIX: 
TABLE 2.1: ITINERARY FOR 8TH NOVEMBER 2014 
TIME ACTION 
7:00 AM Meeting at roundabout and departure for Tanjung Sepat 
8:00 AM Estimated arrival at Tanjung Sepat, sightseeing 
9:00 AM Business opens, breakfast at said business 
10:00 AM Interview at business 
11:00 AM Sightseeing of surrounding areas 
3:00 PM Return to Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus 
TABLE 2.2: DELEGATION OF DUTY 
NAMES ROLE 
Amos Tan Chi Yi Transport and transcript writing 
Chia Sue Hwa Transcript writing 
Kayla Neoh Jia Wen Unable to attend 
Mohammad Amir Azmi Transcript writing and recording 
Foo Shi-ko Transcript writing and interviewing 
Anna Neo Unable to attend 
TABLE 2.3: LOGISTICS 
Logistics Details 
Transport Amos will be driving. 
Things to bring Questions, pen and paper, recording devices 
Things to do Eat, interview and record.
35 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING (3) 
DATE: 23rd November 2014 
TIME: 4:23 PM 
VENUE: E3.11, Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus 
DETAILS: 
MEETING CALLED BY: Amos Tan 
NOTES TAKEN BY: Amos Tan 
SUBJECT: Regarding Preparation of Trip to IKV Business on 24/11/14 and 
25/11/14 
ATTENDEES: 
NAME TUTORIAL GROUP ROLE 
Amos Tan Chi Yi Wednesday Leader / Transport / Secretary 
Chia Sue Hwa Wednesday Research / Recording / Interviewer 
Kayla Neoh Jia Wen Wednesday Research / Report writing 
Mohammad Amir Azmi Wednesday Recording / Report writing 
Anna Neo Wednesday Report writing / Presentation 
Foo Shi-ko Wednesday Research / Presentation / Interviewer 
MINUTES 
NO. ACTIVITY DETAILS 
1. Introduction Brief of current situation. 
2. Discussion 
of business 
Business located and interview appointed. Discussion and creation of 
itinerary. (See Table 3.1 and Table 3.2) 
3 Delegation 
of Duties 
Duties and details of duties were made clear and delegated to every 
member. (See Table 3.3) 
4. Discussion 
of logistics 
Things to bring, transport arrangement and things to do discussed 
and set. (See Table 3.4) 
5. End Meeting adjourned. 
APPENDIX: 
TABLE 3.1: ITINERARY FOR 24th November 2014 
TIME ACTION 
6:00 PM Arrival at IKV Business, have dinner at location, take pictures. 
7:00 PM Return to Taylor’s University.
36 
TABLE 3.2: ITINERARY FOR 25th November 2014 
TIME ACTION 
4:00 PM Arrival at IKV Business, begin interview 
5:30 PM Return to Taylor’s University. 
TABLE 3.3: DELEGATION OF DUTY 
NAMES ROLE 
Amos Tan Chi Yi Transport and recording 
Chia Sue Hwa Unable to attend 
Kayla Neoh Jia Wen Transcript writing 
Mohammad Amir Azmi Unable to attend 
Foo Shi-ko Transcript writing 
Anna Neo Transcript writing and interviewing 
TABLE 3.4: LOGISTICS 
Logistics Details 
Transport Amos will be driving. 
Things to bring Questions, pen and paper, recording devices
37 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING (4) 
DATE: 29th November 2014 
TIME: 2:45 PM 
VENUE: E3.09, Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus 
DETAILS: 
MEETING CALLED BY: Amos Tan 
NOTES TAKEN BY: Amos Tan 
SUBJECT: Regarding Compilation of Data and Report Writing 
ATTENDEES: 
NAME TUTORIAL GROUP ROLE 
Amos Tan Chi Yi Wednesday Leader / Transport / Secretary 
Chia Sue Hwa Wednesday Research / Recording / Interviewer 
Kayla Neoh Jia Wen Wednesday Research / Report writing 
Mohammad Amir Azmi Wednesday Recording / Report writing 
Anna Neo Wednesday Report writing / Presentation 
Foo Shi-ko Wednesday Research / Presentation / Interviewer 
MINUTES 
NO. ACTIVITY DETAILS 
1. Introduction Brief of current situation. 
2. Discussion 
of situation 
Details of current situation discussed, problems addressed. (See 
Table 4.1) 
3 Delegation 
of Duties 
Duties and details of duties were made clear and delegated to every 
member. (See Table 4.2) 
4. Work Report writing and compiling undertaken. 
5. End Meeting adjourned. 
APPENDIX: 
TABLE 4.1: ADDRESSING PROBLEMS 
PROBLEM SOLUTION 
Report not 
finished. 
Report will be finished before end of meeting. 
Incomplete 
information 
More research to be done.
38 
TABLE 4.2: DELEGATION OF DUTY 
NAMES ROLE 
Amos Tan Chi Yi Report writing (miscellaneous) 
Chia Sue Hwa Report writing (Summary) 
Kayla Neoh Jia Wen Report writing (Description of business) 
Mohammad Amir Azmi Report writing (History of trade) 
Foo Shi-ko Cover design 
Anna Neo Compilation of information / Research
References 
1. Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh @ SS14, Subang Jaya (2012 ,12 July).Retrieved 29 November, 2014, from 
http://www.j2kfm.com/ah-ping-bak-kut-teh-ss14-subang-jaya/ 
2. Galvin. T. ( 2010, 26 August). Ah Ping Bah Kut Teh, a Klang delicacy in Subang Jaya.Retrieved 29 
November, 2014, from http://blog.galvintan.com/2010/08/ah-ping-bah-kut-teh/ 
3. CC (2014, 3 March). Yikee Seafood Bak Kut The. Retreved 29 November, 2014, from 
http://www.broughtup2share.com/2014/03/yikee-seafood-bak-kut-teh-tanjung-sepat/ 
4. Calvin ( 2011, 7 March). Seafood Bak Kut The at Tanjung Sepat. Retrieved 30 November, 2014,from 
http://calvin-myjourney.blogspot.com/2011/03/seafood-bak-kut-teh-at-tanjung-sepat.html 
39

More Related Content

Similar to BAHKUTTEH Full report compilation

Full report compilation
Full report compilationFull report compilation
Full report compilationsuehwa533
 
English Final Project
English Final Project English Final Project
English Final Project GillianChong
 
Key summary-english-report
Key summary-english-reportKey summary-english-report
Key summary-english-reportWC Yan
 
Key summary-english-report
Key summary-english-reportKey summary-english-report
Key summary-english-reportLiming Hiew
 
Key summary-english-report
Key summary-english-reportKey summary-english-report
Key summary-english-reportTay Jit Ying
 
report full pdf.pdf
report full pdf.pdfreport full pdf.pdf
report full pdf.pdftaysiewwen
 
Report full-pdf
Report full-pdfReport full-pdf
Report full-pdfJoeylau97
 
report-full-pdf.pdf
report-full-pdf.pdfreport-full-pdf.pdf
report-full-pdf.pdfleejanett3
 
English 2 report
English 2 report English 2 report
English 2 report Devin Wong
 
Research report
Research reportResearch report
Research reportAlexis Wei
 
Eng 2 Research report
Eng 2 Research reportEng 2 Research report
Eng 2 Research reportCherilyn Chia
 
Key summary-english-report
Key summary-english-reportKey summary-english-report
Key summary-english-reportThien Hee
 
english report
english reportenglish report
english reportThien Hee
 
English II assignment II report
English II assignment II reportEnglish II assignment II report
English II assignment II reportLam Wee
 
Englishreport 150611070251-lva1-app6892
Englishreport 150611070251-lva1-app6892Englishreport 150611070251-lva1-app6892
Englishreport 150611070251-lva1-app6892qayyum23
 
Integated final report bak kut teh (2)
Integated final report   bak kut teh (2)Integated final report   bak kut teh (2)
Integated final report bak kut teh (2)G-ny Gynie
 
Bak Kut Teh Final Report
Bak Kut Teh Final ReportBak Kut Teh Final Report
Bak Kut Teh Final ReportNatalie Yunxian
 

Similar to BAHKUTTEH Full report compilation (20)

Full report compilation
Full report compilationFull report compilation
Full report compilation
 
English Final Project
English Final Project English Final Project
English Final Project
 
Economics
EconomicsEconomics
Economics
 
Key summary-english-report
Key summary-english-reportKey summary-english-report
Key summary-english-report
 
Key summary-english-report
Key summary-english-reportKey summary-english-report
Key summary-english-report
 
Key summary-english-report
Key summary-english-reportKey summary-english-report
Key summary-english-report
 
report full pdf.pdf
report full pdf.pdfreport full pdf.pdf
report full pdf.pdf
 
Report full-pdf
Report full-pdfReport full-pdf
Report full-pdf
 
report-full-pdf.pdf
report-full-pdf.pdfreport-full-pdf.pdf
report-full-pdf.pdf
 
English 2 report
English 2 report English 2 report
English 2 report
 
Research report
Research reportResearch report
Research report
 
Research report
Research reportResearch report
Research report
 
Eng 2 Research report
Eng 2 Research reportEng 2 Research report
Eng 2 Research report
 
Key summary-english-report
Key summary-english-reportKey summary-english-report
Key summary-english-report
 
english report
english reportenglish report
english report
 
English II assignment II report
English II assignment II reportEnglish II assignment II report
English II assignment II report
 
English report
English reportEnglish report
English report
 
Englishreport 150611070251-lva1-app6892
Englishreport 150611070251-lva1-app6892Englishreport 150611070251-lva1-app6892
Englishreport 150611070251-lva1-app6892
 
Integated final report bak kut teh (2)
Integated final report   bak kut teh (2)Integated final report   bak kut teh (2)
Integated final report bak kut teh (2)
 
Bak Kut Teh Final Report
Bak Kut Teh Final ReportBak Kut Teh Final Report
Bak Kut Teh Final Report
 

More from Shiko Foo

Csi project 1
Csi project 1Csi project 1
Csi project 1Shiko Foo
 
Bservicereport 2
Bservicereport 2Bservicereport 2
Bservicereport 2Shiko Foo
 
BCON II PROJECT 1
BCON II PROJECT 1BCON II PROJECT 1
BCON II PROJECT 1Shiko Foo
 
44 king street report
44 king street report44 king street report
44 king street reportShiko Foo
 
CULTURE Compilation report
CULTURE Compilation reportCULTURE Compilation report
CULTURE Compilation reportShiko Foo
 
Final site a analysis
Final site a analysisFinal site a analysis
Final site a analysisShiko Foo
 
Joan of arc group journal
Joan of arc group journalJoan of arc group journal
Joan of arc group journalShiko Foo
 
For never (1)
For never (1)For never (1)
For never (1)Shiko Foo
 
Introspection
IntrospectionIntrospection
IntrospectionShiko Foo
 
Psychology jounal
Psychology jounalPsychology jounal
Psychology jounalShiko Foo
 
BUSINESS CHARITY DRIVE Final report
BUSINESS CHARITY DRIVE Final reportBUSINESS CHARITY DRIVE Final report
BUSINESS CHARITY DRIVE Final reportShiko Foo
 
Compare or contrast
Compare or contrastCompare or contrast
Compare or contrastShiko Foo
 
BAHKUTTEH SLIDES
BAHKUTTEH SLIDESBAHKUTTEH SLIDES
BAHKUTTEH SLIDESShiko Foo
 
Mural presentation slides
Mural presentation slidesMural presentation slides
Mural presentation slidesShiko Foo
 

More from Shiko Foo (20)

Csi project 1
Csi project 1Csi project 1
Csi project 1
 
AA Report
AA ReportAA Report
AA Report
 
Bservicereport 2
Bservicereport 2Bservicereport 2
Bservicereport 2
 
BCON II PROJECT 1
BCON II PROJECT 1BCON II PROJECT 1
BCON II PROJECT 1
 
44 king street report
44 king street report44 king street report
44 king street report
 
Kl finale
Kl finaleKl finale
Kl finale
 
CULTURE Compilation report
CULTURE Compilation reportCULTURE Compilation report
CULTURE Compilation report
 
Final site a analysis
Final site a analysisFinal site a analysis
Final site a analysis
 
Joan of arc group journal
Joan of arc group journalJoan of arc group journal
Joan of arc group journal
 
Script(c&c)
Script(c&c)Script(c&c)
Script(c&c)
 
For never (1)
For never (1)For never (1)
For never (1)
 
Introspection
IntrospectionIntrospection
Introspection
 
Psychology jounal
Psychology jounalPsychology jounal
Psychology jounal
 
Advertising
AdvertisingAdvertising
Advertising
 
BUSINESS CHARITY DRIVE Final report
BUSINESS CHARITY DRIVE Final reportBUSINESS CHARITY DRIVE Final report
BUSINESS CHARITY DRIVE Final report
 
Acoffeetail
AcoffeetailAcoffeetail
Acoffeetail
 
Compare or contrast
Compare or contrastCompare or contrast
Compare or contrast
 
BAHKUTTEH SLIDES
BAHKUTTEH SLIDESBAHKUTTEH SLIDES
BAHKUTTEH SLIDES
 
Mural presentation slides
Mural presentation slidesMural presentation slides
Mural presentation slides
 
Mural art
Mural artMural art
Mural art
 

Recently uploaded

Vip Dewas Call Girls #9907093804 Contact Number Escorts Service Dewas
Vip Dewas Call Girls #9907093804 Contact Number Escorts Service DewasVip Dewas Call Girls #9907093804 Contact Number Escorts Service Dewas
Vip Dewas Call Girls #9907093804 Contact Number Escorts Service Dewasmakika9823
 
Lowrate Call Girls In Sector 18 Noida ❤️8860477959 Escorts 100% Genuine Servi...
Lowrate Call Girls In Sector 18 Noida ❤️8860477959 Escorts 100% Genuine Servi...Lowrate Call Girls In Sector 18 Noida ❤️8860477959 Escorts 100% Genuine Servi...
Lowrate Call Girls In Sector 18 Noida ❤️8860477959 Escorts 100% Genuine Servi...lizamodels9
 
VIP Call Girl Jamshedpur Aashi 8250192130 Independent Escort Service Jamshedpur
VIP Call Girl Jamshedpur Aashi 8250192130 Independent Escort Service JamshedpurVIP Call Girl Jamshedpur Aashi 8250192130 Independent Escort Service Jamshedpur
VIP Call Girl Jamshedpur Aashi 8250192130 Independent Escort Service JamshedpurSuhani Kapoor
 
BEST Call Girls In Old Faridabad ✨ 9773824855 ✨ Escorts Service In Delhi Ncr,
BEST Call Girls In Old Faridabad ✨ 9773824855 ✨ Escorts Service In Delhi Ncr,BEST Call Girls In Old Faridabad ✨ 9773824855 ✨ Escorts Service In Delhi Ncr,
BEST Call Girls In Old Faridabad ✨ 9773824855 ✨ Escorts Service In Delhi Ncr,noida100girls
 
0183760ssssssssssssssssssssssssssss00101011 (27).pdf
0183760ssssssssssssssssssssssssssss00101011 (27).pdf0183760ssssssssssssssssssssssssssss00101011 (27).pdf
0183760ssssssssssssssssssssssssssss00101011 (27).pdfRenandantas16
 
Insurers' journeys to build a mastery in the IoT usage
Insurers' journeys to build a mastery in the IoT usageInsurers' journeys to build a mastery in the IoT usage
Insurers' journeys to build a mastery in the IoT usageMatteo Carbone
 
Call Girls in Mehrauli Delhi 💯Call Us 🔝8264348440🔝
Call Girls in Mehrauli Delhi 💯Call Us 🔝8264348440🔝Call Girls in Mehrauli Delhi 💯Call Us 🔝8264348440🔝
Call Girls in Mehrauli Delhi 💯Call Us 🔝8264348440🔝soniya singh
 
Regression analysis: Simple Linear Regression Multiple Linear Regression
Regression analysis:  Simple Linear Regression Multiple Linear RegressionRegression analysis:  Simple Linear Regression Multiple Linear Regression
Regression analysis: Simple Linear Regression Multiple Linear RegressionRavindra Nath Shukla
 
Tech Startup Growth Hacking 101 - Basics on Growth Marketing
Tech Startup Growth Hacking 101  - Basics on Growth MarketingTech Startup Growth Hacking 101  - Basics on Growth Marketing
Tech Startup Growth Hacking 101 - Basics on Growth MarketingShawn Pang
 
Call Girls in Gomti Nagar - 7388211116 - With room Service
Call Girls in Gomti Nagar - 7388211116  - With room ServiceCall Girls in Gomti Nagar - 7388211116  - With room Service
Call Girls in Gomti Nagar - 7388211116 - With room Servicediscovermytutordmt
 
The CMO Survey - Highlights and Insights Report - Spring 2024
The CMO Survey - Highlights and Insights Report - Spring 2024The CMO Survey - Highlights and Insights Report - Spring 2024
The CMO Survey - Highlights and Insights Report - Spring 2024christinemoorman
 
Enhancing and Restoring Safety & Quality Cultures - Dave Litwiller - May 2024...
Enhancing and Restoring Safety & Quality Cultures - Dave Litwiller - May 2024...Enhancing and Restoring Safety & Quality Cultures - Dave Litwiller - May 2024...
Enhancing and Restoring Safety & Quality Cultures - Dave Litwiller - May 2024...Dave Litwiller
 
Non Text Magic Studio Magic Design for Presentations L&P.pptx
Non Text Magic Studio Magic Design for Presentations L&P.pptxNon Text Magic Studio Magic Design for Presentations L&P.pptx
Non Text Magic Studio Magic Design for Presentations L&P.pptxAbhayThakur200703
 
Intro to BCG's Carbon Emissions Benchmark_vF.pdf
Intro to BCG's Carbon Emissions Benchmark_vF.pdfIntro to BCG's Carbon Emissions Benchmark_vF.pdf
Intro to BCG's Carbon Emissions Benchmark_vF.pdfpollardmorgan
 
VIP Kolkata Call Girl Howrah 👉 8250192130 Available With Room
VIP Kolkata Call Girl Howrah 👉 8250192130  Available With RoomVIP Kolkata Call Girl Howrah 👉 8250192130  Available With Room
VIP Kolkata Call Girl Howrah 👉 8250192130 Available With Roomdivyansh0kumar0
 
VIP Call Girls Pune Kirti 8617697112 Independent Escort Service Pune
VIP Call Girls Pune Kirti 8617697112 Independent Escort Service PuneVIP Call Girls Pune Kirti 8617697112 Independent Escort Service Pune
VIP Call Girls Pune Kirti 8617697112 Independent Escort Service PuneCall girls in Ahmedabad High profile
 
Mondelez State of Snacking and Future Trends 2023
Mondelez State of Snacking and Future Trends 2023Mondelez State of Snacking and Future Trends 2023
Mondelez State of Snacking and Future Trends 2023Neil Kimberley
 
Sales & Marketing Alignment: How to Synergize for Success
Sales & Marketing Alignment: How to Synergize for SuccessSales & Marketing Alignment: How to Synergize for Success
Sales & Marketing Alignment: How to Synergize for SuccessAggregage
 

Recently uploaded (20)

Vip Dewas Call Girls #9907093804 Contact Number Escorts Service Dewas
Vip Dewas Call Girls #9907093804 Contact Number Escorts Service DewasVip Dewas Call Girls #9907093804 Contact Number Escorts Service Dewas
Vip Dewas Call Girls #9907093804 Contact Number Escorts Service Dewas
 
Lowrate Call Girls In Sector 18 Noida ❤️8860477959 Escorts 100% Genuine Servi...
Lowrate Call Girls In Sector 18 Noida ❤️8860477959 Escorts 100% Genuine Servi...Lowrate Call Girls In Sector 18 Noida ❤️8860477959 Escorts 100% Genuine Servi...
Lowrate Call Girls In Sector 18 Noida ❤️8860477959 Escorts 100% Genuine Servi...
 
VIP Call Girl Jamshedpur Aashi 8250192130 Independent Escort Service Jamshedpur
VIP Call Girl Jamshedpur Aashi 8250192130 Independent Escort Service JamshedpurVIP Call Girl Jamshedpur Aashi 8250192130 Independent Escort Service Jamshedpur
VIP Call Girl Jamshedpur Aashi 8250192130 Independent Escort Service Jamshedpur
 
BEST Call Girls In Old Faridabad ✨ 9773824855 ✨ Escorts Service In Delhi Ncr,
BEST Call Girls In Old Faridabad ✨ 9773824855 ✨ Escorts Service In Delhi Ncr,BEST Call Girls In Old Faridabad ✨ 9773824855 ✨ Escorts Service In Delhi Ncr,
BEST Call Girls In Old Faridabad ✨ 9773824855 ✨ Escorts Service In Delhi Ncr,
 
0183760ssssssssssssssssssssssssssss00101011 (27).pdf
0183760ssssssssssssssssssssssssssss00101011 (27).pdf0183760ssssssssssssssssssssssssssss00101011 (27).pdf
0183760ssssssssssssssssssssssssssss00101011 (27).pdf
 
Insurers' journeys to build a mastery in the IoT usage
Insurers' journeys to build a mastery in the IoT usageInsurers' journeys to build a mastery in the IoT usage
Insurers' journeys to build a mastery in the IoT usage
 
Call Girls in Mehrauli Delhi 💯Call Us 🔝8264348440🔝
Call Girls in Mehrauli Delhi 💯Call Us 🔝8264348440🔝Call Girls in Mehrauli Delhi 💯Call Us 🔝8264348440🔝
Call Girls in Mehrauli Delhi 💯Call Us 🔝8264348440🔝
 
Regression analysis: Simple Linear Regression Multiple Linear Regression
Regression analysis:  Simple Linear Regression Multiple Linear RegressionRegression analysis:  Simple Linear Regression Multiple Linear Regression
Regression analysis: Simple Linear Regression Multiple Linear Regression
 
Best Practices for Implementing an External Recruiting Partnership
Best Practices for Implementing an External Recruiting PartnershipBest Practices for Implementing an External Recruiting Partnership
Best Practices for Implementing an External Recruiting Partnership
 
Tech Startup Growth Hacking 101 - Basics on Growth Marketing
Tech Startup Growth Hacking 101  - Basics on Growth MarketingTech Startup Growth Hacking 101  - Basics on Growth Marketing
Tech Startup Growth Hacking 101 - Basics on Growth Marketing
 
Call Girls in Gomti Nagar - 7388211116 - With room Service
Call Girls in Gomti Nagar - 7388211116  - With room ServiceCall Girls in Gomti Nagar - 7388211116  - With room Service
Call Girls in Gomti Nagar - 7388211116 - With room Service
 
The CMO Survey - Highlights and Insights Report - Spring 2024
The CMO Survey - Highlights and Insights Report - Spring 2024The CMO Survey - Highlights and Insights Report - Spring 2024
The CMO Survey - Highlights and Insights Report - Spring 2024
 
KestrelPro Flyer Japan IT Week 2024 (English)
KestrelPro Flyer Japan IT Week 2024 (English)KestrelPro Flyer Japan IT Week 2024 (English)
KestrelPro Flyer Japan IT Week 2024 (English)
 
Enhancing and Restoring Safety & Quality Cultures - Dave Litwiller - May 2024...
Enhancing and Restoring Safety & Quality Cultures - Dave Litwiller - May 2024...Enhancing and Restoring Safety & Quality Cultures - Dave Litwiller - May 2024...
Enhancing and Restoring Safety & Quality Cultures - Dave Litwiller - May 2024...
 
Non Text Magic Studio Magic Design for Presentations L&P.pptx
Non Text Magic Studio Magic Design for Presentations L&P.pptxNon Text Magic Studio Magic Design for Presentations L&P.pptx
Non Text Magic Studio Magic Design for Presentations L&P.pptx
 
Intro to BCG's Carbon Emissions Benchmark_vF.pdf
Intro to BCG's Carbon Emissions Benchmark_vF.pdfIntro to BCG's Carbon Emissions Benchmark_vF.pdf
Intro to BCG's Carbon Emissions Benchmark_vF.pdf
 
VIP Kolkata Call Girl Howrah 👉 8250192130 Available With Room
VIP Kolkata Call Girl Howrah 👉 8250192130  Available With RoomVIP Kolkata Call Girl Howrah 👉 8250192130  Available With Room
VIP Kolkata Call Girl Howrah 👉 8250192130 Available With Room
 
VIP Call Girls Pune Kirti 8617697112 Independent Escort Service Pune
VIP Call Girls Pune Kirti 8617697112 Independent Escort Service PuneVIP Call Girls Pune Kirti 8617697112 Independent Escort Service Pune
VIP Call Girls Pune Kirti 8617697112 Independent Escort Service Pune
 
Mondelez State of Snacking and Future Trends 2023
Mondelez State of Snacking and Future Trends 2023Mondelez State of Snacking and Future Trends 2023
Mondelez State of Snacking and Future Trends 2023
 
Sales & Marketing Alignment: How to Synergize for Success
Sales & Marketing Alignment: How to Synergize for SuccessSales & Marketing Alignment: How to Synergize for Success
Sales & Marketing Alignment: How to Synergize for Success
 

BAHKUTTEH Full report compilation

  • 1. 1
  • 2. School of Architecture, Building and Design Foundation in Natural and Built Environment [FNBE] English II Ms. Cassandra English Final Project – Research Assignment Report FNBE February 2014 Group member : Amos Tan Chi Yi 0318330 Chia Sue Hwa 0317920 Nor Syarianna Neo 0318236 Neoh Jia Wen 0318228 Foo Shi-Ko 0318262 Muhammad Amir bin Azmi 0318091 2
  • 3. Table of Contents No. Title Page number 1. Artistic cover 1 2. Cover page 2 3. Table of contents 3 3 4. Key Summary 2.1 Location 2.2 The Team 2.3 The Assignment 2.4 Research Questions 2.5 Methodology 4 - 6 5. Research report a. Description of the history of trade. b. Description of the business. c. Comparative Analysis. 7 – 9 10 – 12 13 – 21 6. Recommendations 22– 23 7. Bibliography 24 8. Appendices 25 – 38 9. References 39
  • 4. Key Summary 4 4.2.1 Location Considering both Bak Kut Teh restaurants are situated in two entirely different districts, the geographical difference between the two create many points of comparison to our advantage. The first one we visited on a one-day road trip to Tanjung Sepat, a small town in Kuala Langat, Selangor. Located along the Straits of Malacca, it is primarily a fishing town specialising as a source of fresh seafood to its inhabitants and also as exportation. Namely, the *** is a simple, open-air restaurant directly by the side of an internal road in town, a clever spot to attract their desired market. On the other hand, the second restaurant we visited was 15 minutes away from our campus: SS14, a large commercial and residential enclave located just off the busy Persiaran Kewajiban and NPE Highway in Subang Jaya. Nestled in a row of shop lots also distinguished for several other Bak Kut Teh restaurants, the surroundings of Restoran Ah Ping is frequently crowded with residents and office staff parking their cars, looking for a good meal. Although slightly cramped and hidden, this restaurant is certainly strategic in terms of location. 4.2.2 The Team A six-man team, we were rather well-equipped in terms of manpower and skill set specialisation. Amos Tan, the commanding leader was largely in charge of managing our overall tasks, while Anna and Sue assisted and handled main research and presentation of information for the report and slides. Shi-Ko and Kayla took charge of information recording and further research whereas Amir assisted in recording and as an extra hand to help out in any task. During the period of data collection, namely the interviews, all members played an active role in recording information. Not to forget frequent inputs and opinions from everyone during all stages of the assignment.
  • 5. 5 4.2.3 The Assignment Comparative research as the core methodology, the task for each group study two trades or businesses of the same type in any part of Peninsula Malaysia and the Klang Valley. As the focus, these two examples were analyzed through a combination of both primary sources e.g. interviews and data obtained through questionnaires while on the site visit and also secondary sources, such as printed media and the internet. Our team delegated our tasks accordingly and evenly during collection and presentation of information. 4.2.4 Research Questions Referred and modified from the appendix in the assignment brief, the following are a few examples of questions that were used for the comparative study between the two Bak Kut Teh Restaurants. A. Brief Description of the Businesses i) What are the names of the businesses? ii) Where are the current locations of the businesses? iii) Number of branches? B. Comparative Analysis of the Businesses’ Competitive Traits i) Number of competitors in their respective geographical markets; ii) What are the brief bios of each business’ top 3 competitors? iii) How do the businesses compete with their competitors? What strategies were/are employed, and how successful are they?
  • 6. 6 4.2.5 Methodology 4.2.5.1 Data Collection Interviews were conducted with the managers at each Bak Kut Teh restaurant through physical visits on two separate occasions. Readily equipped with the necessities such as a camera for video recording and photos, mobile phone for additional voice recording and stationary for interview notes, we were well prepared and did not come across any major obstacles. We also printed out the interview questions and held sufficient discussions beforehand to prepare us intellectually. Furthermore, language barriers did not pose as a challenge as we have a multi- lingual team, members who can communicate fluently in both Mandarin and Cantonese dialect as well as English and Bahasa Melayu. 4.2.5.2 Data Presentation By the end of the assignment, presenting a written report as well as a verbal presentation meant effective communication of the information we gathered. Put to work, we collectively analysed the similarities and differences between the two restaurants and split up the sub-topics amongst ourselves to further analyse, tabulate and research specifically. This method of delegation worked for us because it lessened the burden on every member while ensuring an assortment of quality work. Lastly, we edited the report to ensure it contained the most accurate facts and format before submission. After completing most of the report, we then started to filter information to place on the Powerpoint slides for our oral presentation. Following that, we practiced and drilled our knowledge on our own subtopics to be presented with the help of each other until we could rehearse it fluently.
  • 7. Research Report 7 A. Description of the history of trade. If there is one subject that intrigues the people staying in Klang, it would be the debate on the best bak kut teh served in Klang Valley. There are those who would swear by a particular shop that they frequently patronise and others who have tried a few shops here and there and stuck to the best of the lot. These food lovers will scrutinise every single aspect of the dish, down to how strong the herbal taste should be in the soup or how thick the gravy should be. We found this to be true as certain people who enjoy this dish only frequent their favourite shop and do not go to other shops. Bak kut teh is believed to have originated from the Fujian province of China. The introduction of the dish to Singapore and Malaysia is attributed to Hokkien immigrants who moved to this region in the 19th century. The dish is said to have been popular with the Chinese coolies as a hearty breakfast before embarking on their backbreaking tasks of the day. Bak kut teh is a soup based dish consisting of different cuts of pork meat simmered in a herb based broth for hours. Most shops will normally use pork ribs, but they are also known to include other cuts of pork into the herbal broth as well. Meat from other parts tend to be softer and delicate compared to meat from the pork ribs, though most of it will just melt away as soon as it is spooned into the mouth. The herbs and spices that are normally used to give it that distinct taste are star anise, cinnamon, cloves, female ginseng (locally known as dong guai), fennel seeds and garlic, which is boiled for hours together with the selected cuts of meat. The meat becomes infused with all the flavours from the herbs and spices, and the sweetness from the meat seeps into the broth, mellowing the tangy and sharp taste of the herbs. Other ingredients commonly found in a bowl of bak kut teh are mushrooms, fried tofu puffs, pieces of dried tofu and iceberg lettuce. There are numerous variants of bak kut teh with its cooking style closely influenced by the prevailing Chinese enclave of a certain geographical location. Singapore Bak Kut Teh has three popular types which are the Teochew style, which is light in color but uses more pepper and garlic in the soup. The second being the Hoklo (Hokkien), who prefer saltier food, use more
  • 8. soy sauce resulting in a darker soup. The third being the Cantonese, with a soup-drinking culture, add medicinal herbs to create a stronger flavoured soup. Malaysian Bak Kut Teh, is usually in a dry form and has also recently become increasingly popular, especially in Klang town. Although called dry, the broth is in fact reduced to a thicker gravy, to which other ingredients such as wolfberries, dried dates, dried chillies and dried squid are added. Unlike the original rib soup, the dry version has a tangier, sharper taste and is more akin to a herbal stew than the classical broth. It is often recommended locally in Malaysia as an excellent hangover cure. A less fatty variation of bak kut teh made with chicken instead of pork is called chik kut teh. It also serves as a halal version of the dish catered to Muslims, whose religion forbids them to consume pork. Throughout the years, creative traders have come to realize that some patrons do welcome the idea of having side dishes along with the main dish. It is now common to find these restaurants now offering dishes like blanched iceberg lettuce drizzled with a mixture of oyster sauce, fried shallots and a little bit of the oil from the fried shallots and other dishes to their customers. The restaurateurs also offer additional ingredients like enoki mushrooms, chicken feet, fried strips of dough or locally known as youtiao for dipping into the soup or even meatballs at additional prices. It is normally eaten with fragrant rice and sprinkles of fried shallots and raw garlic. Some shops also serve it with yam rice as an alternative to plain rice. To pique the interests of bak kut teh lovers, another version of this dish was introduced. The broth is boiled and reduced to a thicker gravy and contains added ingredients like dried chilli and dried squid. As a result, the gravy is darker in colour, has a spicy aftertaste with a distinct aroma from the dried squid. This style is fast gaining popularity, especially in Klang. There is now even a dish called Chik Kut Teh, which substitutes chicken for pork. The dish was introduced during the Nipah virus outbreak in Malaysia, which caused many locals to be wary of consuming pork. It is fascinating to see how a simple dish like this became a famous and widely eaten staple in Malaysia. This dish was supposed to be a nourishing dish for Chinese coolies who came to Port Klang to work during the British colonial era. Herbs and spices said to be good for health were gathered, with pork added to add flavour to the broth, resulting in this dish. Hot tea is always drunk together with this meal as it is believed that the high 8
  • 9. amount of fats in the dish is removed because the tea is able to flush out excess oil from within the body. Most bak kut teh lovers will request extra bowls of soup. Some shops are very generous with their soup, obliging customers with their repeated requests. Others will kindly but firmly tell the customers that soup refills are limited as it is very precious. There are even rumours that some of the soup pots are continuously refilled with fresh soup everyday, to keep the intense flavours from the day before inside the pot, thereby making it even more mouth-watering. 9
  • 10. 10 5.b. Description of Businesses i. Restaurant Ah Hock Bak Kut The Restoran Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh is well known for its seafood Bak Kut Teh and it is a must-visit for those who crave for a taste of fresh catch. It is located in Tanjung Sepat, a fishing village situated in between Banting and Sepang in Selangor. The restaurant is actually an old wooden shop which does not have elegant decoration, air conditioner, comfortable tables and chairs. The shop is extremely rustic and run-down, with rusty zinc roofs, rotten wooden columns and without walls. They don’t even have a proper menu too but the taste of the food will be another story. Seafood Bak Kut Teh, a type of Bak Kut Teh that is the least found in Malaysia. It is special as it combine the traditional Chinese dish with the abundance of fresh seafood, to create Bak Kut Teh featuring not only pork, but fish, crab as well as prawn. Sungai Pelek which located 20km away from Tanjung Sepat, has become the key supply of pork for the 12 years and meanwhile, Tanjung Sepat as a fishing village support its freshest catch. The sweetness of seafood flavor makes the broth tasty but it won’t cause awkwardness when it combines with pork. Before entering the business of selling Bak Kut Teh, Mr Cheah Song Qing, the founder used to rear pigs as a living, but the income of rearing pigs was too low to support the family. Thus, in 1999, Mr Cheah decided to open up a new business and sell Seafood Bak Kut Teh in Kuala Lumpur. He combined the traditional chinese delicacy with the specialty seafood. In 2002, he decided to move his business to Tanjung Sepat where it still remains in operation. Since Tanjung Sepat is a tourist attraction, most of the tourist have their lunch in Restaurant Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh. Meanwhile, most of the residence in Tanjung Sepat flood the restaurant during breakfast as they always sold out before 12.30p.m. There is approximately 50 customers daily and fluctuating to 80 customers during holiday period because the visiting of more tourist. Restaurant Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh open for business at 7.00a.m. and usually closed by 12.30p.m. It is the busiest Bak Kut Teh restaurant at Tanjung Sepat as the parking space is always breeze at the peak breakfast hour.
  • 11. There is only one competitor in the area which is Restaurant Yi Kee Seafood Bak Kut Teh. However, Restaurant Yi Kee Seafood Bak Kut Teh is not as popular as Restaurant Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh. Restaurant Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh has been featured in on the internet websites and blogs, newspaper articles and reviews and even Tanjung Sepat Tourism Brochure. Besides, Restaurant Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh has a newer and better constructed building than Restaurant Yi Kee Seafood Bak Kut Teh. To handle the competition in business, Restaurant Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh cooperate with the other competitor by innovating and creating new dishes. Although the interior and exterior of Restaurant Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh are rusty, the taste of the seafood Bak Kut Teh will never rust in every customer’s heart. 11 ii. Retaurant Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh is one of the earliest Bak Kut Teh restaurants in Subang Jaya, with a combined* operation time of around 13 years. Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh is located in SS14, Subang Jaya, in what is locally called “Bak Kut Teh Jie” (Bak Kut Teh Row), so called because of the abundance of Bak Kut Teh restaurants there. Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh has a rich history that started way before the restaurant’s current reincarnation in Subang Jaya. According to the current owner, the elder brother of the founder had actually started his own Bak Kut Teh business and was doing well. This inspired the founder to open up a stall in Subang Jaya to help sell Bak Kut Teh ini 1989. When he first started, it was nothing more than a stall in a hawker centre. After years of work, they had enough capital to open up their own restaurant in 2004, and have been in operation ever since. Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh prides itself in selling only Bak Kut Teh, vegetables and Chinese tea. It is a very specialized restaurant, with the owner proudly boasting that “they don’t know how to make anything other than Bak Kut Teh.” Thus, it is of no surprise that the Bak Kut Teh served there is critically acclaimed, with many bloggers and reviewers proclaiming it as the “best in Subang Jaya, and maybe even the Klang Valley.” Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh is often frequented by the locals in Subang Jaya, and the restaurant can always be seen packed full of its loyal patrons, especially during a rainy evening or during dinner hours. According to the interviewee, a whopping 300 customers visit the restaurant during the weekdays, and up to an incredible 500 customers are served during both weekends. Amazing still is the fact that the restaurant is operated by a small staff of 6. The owner has expressed no intention of expansion.
  • 12. The restaurant’s location in Bak Kut Teh Row in SS14 makes it face stiff competition from 5 d ifferent Bak Kut Teh restaurants in the very near vicinity; they are Yu Kee Bak Kut Teh, Wing Hiong Bak Kut Teh, Chuan Chiew Bak Kut Teh, Chuan Bak Kut Teh and Da De Bak Kut Teh. Although three of them are relatively inferior to Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh in terms of price, food and value, Chuan Chiew Bak Kut Teh and Yu Kee Bak Kut Teh are competitive with the restaurant, with their own offerings closely matching Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh’s offerings. In addition, they are also in direct competition of a chicken rice shop called Jia Siang. Although both restaurants are offering completely different foods, the customers are known to be swayed by both types of food. As the customers for chicken rice are known to have a liking for Bak Kut Teh, and vice versa, it is clear to see that these two restaurants, however different, are in direct competition with each other. To combat this threat, Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh is placing its faith in the uniqueness of its food. While the servings are plentiful with a lot of delicious pork, it is the unique method of Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh that has won the hearts and stomachs of its customers, so said the interviewee. “I can give you the recipe, or even give you a pack of all the ingredients,” she said. “But without the method your result will be completely inferior to what we have.” Indeed, the main appeal of Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh is not the servings, the price or the friendliness of the staff. It is the particular aroma and delicious taste of its Bak Kut Teh that gave the restaurant the edge. 12
  • 13. 13 C. Comparative Analysis Item Ah Hock Seafood Bak Kut Teh Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh i. Competitors There is only one competitor in the area, Yi Kee Seafood Bak Kut Teh. There are five other Bak Kut Teh restaurants in close proximity: Yu Kee Bak Kut Teh, Wing Hiong Bak Kut Teh, Chuan Chiew Bak Kut Teh, Chuan Bak Kut Teh and Da De Bak Kut Teh. In addition, a popular chicken rice shop is also in direct competition: Jia Siang Chicken Rice. ii. Brief Descriptions of Competitors 1. Yi Kee Seafood Bak Kut Teh - Not as famous as Ah Hock Seafood Bak Kut Teh, isn’t featured in brochures or newspaper articles. - The building is newer and better constructed. - The prices are roughly the same as Ah Hock Seafood Bak Kut Teh. 1. Yu Kee Bak Kut Teh - Has decent Bak Kut Teh, with attractive price. - Located in a corner store on the street. - Popular among the locals. - Business hours are exactly the same. 2. Wing Hiong Bak Kut Teh - Generally accepted among the locals that this restaurant has inferior Bak Kut Teh. - The prices are cheap, but poor in value. - Not a popular restaurant.
  • 14. 14 3. Chuan Bak Kut Teh - The taste is decent overall. - Price is slightly higher than Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh - Relatively popular with locals. 4. Da De Bak Kut Teh - Better furnished than the rest, with professionally done menus. - However, it is not popular with the locals, citing inferior taste and expensive prices. 5. Chuan Chiew Bak Kut Teh - Decent Bak Kut Teh with good price. 6. Jia Siang Chicken Rice - Extremely popular with the locals. - Delicious chicken rice widely known to be the best in Subang Jaya at a cheap price. - Always packed during its long opening hours. iii. Competition strategies 1.Pricing -Actively collaborates with competitor to ensure prices are the same. - Sets its prices cheaper than the average in the area. 2.Advertisement
  • 15. - Featured on the Tanjung Sepat Tourism Brochure. - Featured in newspaper articles and reviews. - Featured on internet websites and blogs. - Favourite among locals, advertised via word of mouth. 15 - Featured on internet websites and blogs. - Favourite among locals, advertised via word of mouth. 3.Signature Dish - Their Seafood Bak Kut Teh is claimed to be their own invention. They combine the traditional Chinese dish with the abundance of fresh seafood found in Tanjung Sepat, to create Bak Kut Teh featuring not only pork, but fish, crab as well as prawn. - Although Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh features a no frills package, their signature Bak Kut Teh is highly renown among the locals, with people praising its particular taste and aroma due to its different methods of preparation, the details of which are a closely guarded trade secret. 4.Quality of Service - The family owned and family operated restaurant is incredibly friendly, with the owners sometimes sitting down with the customers to chat. - Service is extremely quick, fast and efficient. In the busy city, there is no time for chitchatting, and their quality and method of service is designed to keep the customers moving.
  • 16. 16 iv. What are the obstacles faced by the new businesses? The sheer amount of effort required to set up a Bak Kut Teh business is incredible, requiring hundreds of hours of planning and execution. This has scared away new businesses. The oversaturation of the Bak Kut Teh industry in Subang Jaya has made any attempt at opening a new business incredibly difficult. In order to compete, they have to create a unique signature dish, at an attractive price, while simultaneously building up an online presence. In addition, Subang Jaya customers are also known to be extremely critical and sharp-tongued, and would not hesitate to criticize any new restaurant for the most trivial of failures. Both businesses also cited the large capital needed to open a new business in their respective areas. v. Nature of Market - Oligopoly. Competition is stagnant due to cooperation between Ah Hock Seafood Bak Kut Teh and its competitor. - Perfectly competitive. Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh is operating at place full of competitors, and needs to be at the top of their game in order to survive.
  • 17. vi. Summary Table of Similarities and Difference between two restaurants. Ah Hock Seafood Bak Kut Teh Similarities 17 Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh Seafood Bak Kut Teh Main products sold Bak Kut Teh 5 Employees, all of them local and part of the owner’s family Workers 6 Employees, all of them local Shortsighted Future plan Shortsighted None Current branches None
  • 18. Ah Hock Seafood Bak Kut Teh Differences Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh 18 Mr. Cheah Song Qing, the founder of the business used to rear pigs for a living, but the income was too low, thus prompting Mr. Cheah to open a new business and sell Seafood Bak Kut Teh, offering a unique take on the traditional Chinese dish. They first started operations in 1999 in Kuala Lumpur, and move to Tanjung Sepat in 2002, where it still remains in operation. Founder and History The elder brother of the founder had actually started his own successful business. This inspired the founder to open up a stall in Subang Jaya to help sell Bak Kut Teh ini 1989. When he first started, it was nothing more than a stall in a hawker centre. After years of work, they had enough capital to open up their own restaurant in SS14 in 2004, and have been in operation ever since. Ah Hock Seafood Bak Kut Teh is located in Tanjung Sepat. It looks like a shack, with rusty zinc plating covering this building without walls. Address: Ah Hock Seafood Bak Kut The, Lot 2260, Lorong 7, Jalan Besar 45300, Tanjung Sepat, Selangor, Malaysia Location Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh is located in SS14, Subang Jaya, along a stretch of road locally known as “Bak Kut Teh Jie” (Bak Kut Teh Row). The restaurant is a proper, clean building. Address: AH PING BAK KUT TEH 42, Jalan SS14/2 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor
  • 19. 19 Seafood Bak Kut Teh, rice, vegetables, oil sticks and tea. Types of products sold Pork Bak Kut Teh, rice, vegetables, oil sticks and tea. Half day, 7AM – 12:30PM Business hour Evenings only, 5PM – 9PM Entirely family-owned and family operated. Three generations are currently operating the restaurant. Business operation Started with help from family, currently only the owner is handling the operations. Staff are hired. About 50 + customers daily, fluctuating to 80 during holiday periods. Number of customers About 300 customers on weekdays, and up to 500 on weekends. The locals and tourists. Targeted market The locals only. Featured in Tanjung Sepat Tourist Brochure, internet blogs and newspaper articles. Media Featured in internet blogs only. Cooperate with the other competitor, innovate and create new dishes. Combating competition Focus on their unique “Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh taste”
  • 20. 20 Extremely rustic and run-down, with rusty zinc roofs, rotten wooden columns and without walls. Restaurant layout and atmosphere Relatively modern. Situated in a proper terrace building, with fans, clean walls and the like. Around RM400,000 Annual Revenue Around RM500,000
  • 21. 21 Vii. Conclusion According to the aforementioned analysis, these two businesses are in many ways completely different. Yes, both of them sell Bak Kut Teh, are popular to the locals and are heavily featured online. However, that’s where the similarities end. These restaurants are incredibly specialized for their local market. Ah Hock Seafood Bak Kut Teh offers a more homely, authentic and rustic atmosphere because it is suitable for the quiet and tranquil town of Tanjung Sepat, where its customers aren’t in a hurry, aren’t particular and are closely knit with each other. Whereas Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh focuses on speed and efficiency, offering delicious food and good value with fast service because of its location in Subang Jaya, a fast-paced city where everybody is in a hurry yet expects the absolute best for their hard-earned money. Addressing the elephant in the room is the fact that these restaurants are offering different products. Seafood Bak Kut Teh is admittedly an acquired taste, and certainly isn’t for the “landdwellers” in the Klang Valley. A person from Subang Jaya will not necessarily enjoy the seafood in its Bak Kut Teh, and would prefer the vanilla unadulterated Bak Kut Teh offered by Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh. Vice versa for a person from Tanjung Sepat, where he has spent his entire life near the sea. The difference in competition is also massive, with both restaurants adopting different strategies to combat it. Ah Hock Seafood Bak Kut Teh has limited competition, going as far as to cooperate with said competitor. This effectively creates an oligopoly. In contrast, Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh faces extreme competition from five different Bak Kut Teh restaurants as well as a chicken rice restaurant. Besides, these restaurants are only in the same district; there are a lot more restaurants found in the surrounding districts of SS15, SS19 and SS18, with another famous and popular Bak Kut Teh restaurant in SS18. Overall, it is impossible to consider which restaurant has more business potential; both restaurants are designed to run specifically to meet the requirements of their respective markets.
  • 22. Recommendations Based on our analysis regarding the two restaurants, Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh and Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh, we have proposed a few recommendations to further improve their competitiveness in the future. 22 A. Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh Restaurant Current Area of Improvement Recommendation Stagnant expansion of restaurant branches. The family owners of the restaurant could consider plans of further developing one or more branches to other nearby towns that lack variety in food. This way, entirely new sources of income are made possible. Regularity of dish choices in the menu. The chefs could attempt at introducing an array of fresh recipes that still encompass the specialties of the restaurant, besides remaining the original menu. This move could possibly introduce new customer groups and increase the popularity of the restaurant. Stuffy and dark atmosphere of restaurant Owners should upgrade the physical outlook of the restaurant structure by converting it into an indoor building, to rid the hot and humid afternoons. Installing air-conditioning and better lighting might also encourage and increase customer satisfaction.
  • 23. 23 . B. Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh Restaurant Current Area of Improvement Recommendation Short opening hours. Restaurant owners could look into lengthening the operating hours to include lunchtime.Reason being, the lunch crowd in the urban residential area is immense due to nearby offices, which could bringabout significant profit. Regularity of dish choices in the existing menu. . Restaurant chefs could introduce new dishes to create morevariety in the existing menu while still retaining the original quality. This would definitely draw in a wider assortment of food enthusiasts in the city who are searching for authentic, different tastes. Hot and cramped environment in the restaurant. To differ themselves from the several other competitor restaurants in the shop lot, the owners could consider occupying the unit next to their current one. Thus, a spacious and well-ventilated surrounding would provide more comfortable surroundings to the customers.
  • 24. Bibliography 1. Robyn, E. (2008). Food & Drink. Australia, AUS : Kuala Lumpur, Melaka & Penang. 2. James. P. (2010). Seafood Handbook. Hoboken, New Jersey : John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 3. Terry. T. (2003). Shiok! Exciting Tropical Asian Flavors, Joo Seng Road, Singapore: Priplus Edition (HK) Ltd 24
  • 25. Appendix A compilation of handwritten documents and photos that were involved in the process of studying and comparing the two Bak Kut Teh restaurants. A. Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh Restaurant, Tanjung Sepat. Close up of the front entrance or side opening of Ah Hock Bak Kut Teh Restaurant 25 I. Photos Yu Kee Bak Kut Teh Restaurant, one of Ah Hock’s nearby competitors.
  • 26. A panoramic shot of Ah Hock Restaurant’s interior atmosphere – rather informal and traditional Some articles taken from newspaper complimenting and promoting the restaurant's well-known Seafood Bah Kut Teh. 26
  • 27. 27 II. Documents Above: Printed interview questions and handwritten notes.
  • 28. 28 B. Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh Restaurant I. Photos Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh Restaurant, frontal view. The long façade of the restaurant is reminiscent of traditional shop houses, which maintains its traditional aspect.
  • 29. Restoran Yu Kee and Restoran Ming Siang Bak Kut Teh, nearby competitors of Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh. A group photo with the founder of Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh, Mr. Lim Wei Ing and his wife. 29
  • 30. 30 II. Documents III. Namecard Above: Printed interview questions and handwritten notes.
  • 31. 31 MINUTES OF MEETING (1) DATE 25th October 2014 TIME 4:23 PM VENUE E3.09, Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus ATTENDEES: NAMES OF GROUP MEMBERS TUTORIAL GROUP ROLE Amos Tan Chi Yi Wednesday N/A Chia Sue Hwa Wednesday N/A Kayla Neoh Jia Wen Wednesday N/A Mohammad Amir Azmi Wednesday N/A Anna Neo Wednesday N/A Foo Shi-ko Wednesday N/A MINUTES NO. ACTIVITY DETAILS 1. Introduction Details of brief discussed and made clear 2. Discussion of execution Details of how to proceed were discussed and determined. (See Table 1.1) 3. Delegation of Duties Duties and details of duties were made clear and delegated to every member. (See Table 1.2) 4. End Meeting adjourned. APPENDIX: TABLE 1.1: SCHEDULE OF EXECUTION DATE ACTION By 8/11 Selection and interview appointment of Out of Klang Valley (OKV) business. 8/11 Interview of OKV business. By 15/11 Selection and interview appointment of In Klang Valley (IKV) business. 15/11 Interview of IKV business.
  • 32. 32 TABLE 1.2: DELEGATION OF DUTY NAMES ROLE Amos Tan Chi Yi Leader / Transport / Secretary Chia Sue Hwa Research / Recording / Interviewer Kayla Neoh Jia Wen Research / Report writing Mohammad Amir Azmi Recording / Report writing Foo Shi-ko Report writing / Presentation Anna Neo Research / Presentation / Interviewer
  • 33. 33 MINUTES OF THE MEETING (2) DATE: 7th November 2014 TIME: 10:32 AM VENUE: Outside Library, Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus DETAILS: MEETING CALLED BY: Chia Sue Hwa NOTES TAKEN BY: Amos Tan SUBJECT: Regarding Preparation of Trip to OKV Business. ATTENDEES: NAME TUTORIAL GROUP ROLE Amos Tan Chi Yi Wednesday Leader / Transport / Secretary Chia Sue Hwa Wednesday Research / Recording / Interviewer Kayla Neoh Jia Wen Wednesday Research / Report writing Mohammad Amir Azmi Wednesday Recording / Report writing Anna Neo Wednesday Report writing / Presentation Foo Shi-ko Wednesday Research / Presentation / Interviewer MINUTES: NO. ACTIVITY DETAILS 1. Introduction Brief of current situation. 2. Discussion of business Business located and interview appointed. Discussion and creation of itinerary. (See Table 2.1) 3 Delegation of Duties Duties and details of duties were made clear and delegated to every member. (See Table 2.2) 4. Discussion of logistics Things to bring, transport arrangement and things to do discussed and set. (See Table 2.3) 5. End Meeting adjourned.
  • 34. 34 APPENDIX: TABLE 2.1: ITINERARY FOR 8TH NOVEMBER 2014 TIME ACTION 7:00 AM Meeting at roundabout and departure for Tanjung Sepat 8:00 AM Estimated arrival at Tanjung Sepat, sightseeing 9:00 AM Business opens, breakfast at said business 10:00 AM Interview at business 11:00 AM Sightseeing of surrounding areas 3:00 PM Return to Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus TABLE 2.2: DELEGATION OF DUTY NAMES ROLE Amos Tan Chi Yi Transport and transcript writing Chia Sue Hwa Transcript writing Kayla Neoh Jia Wen Unable to attend Mohammad Amir Azmi Transcript writing and recording Foo Shi-ko Transcript writing and interviewing Anna Neo Unable to attend TABLE 2.3: LOGISTICS Logistics Details Transport Amos will be driving. Things to bring Questions, pen and paper, recording devices Things to do Eat, interview and record.
  • 35. 35 MINUTES OF THE MEETING (3) DATE: 23rd November 2014 TIME: 4:23 PM VENUE: E3.11, Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus DETAILS: MEETING CALLED BY: Amos Tan NOTES TAKEN BY: Amos Tan SUBJECT: Regarding Preparation of Trip to IKV Business on 24/11/14 and 25/11/14 ATTENDEES: NAME TUTORIAL GROUP ROLE Amos Tan Chi Yi Wednesday Leader / Transport / Secretary Chia Sue Hwa Wednesday Research / Recording / Interviewer Kayla Neoh Jia Wen Wednesday Research / Report writing Mohammad Amir Azmi Wednesday Recording / Report writing Anna Neo Wednesday Report writing / Presentation Foo Shi-ko Wednesday Research / Presentation / Interviewer MINUTES NO. ACTIVITY DETAILS 1. Introduction Brief of current situation. 2. Discussion of business Business located and interview appointed. Discussion and creation of itinerary. (See Table 3.1 and Table 3.2) 3 Delegation of Duties Duties and details of duties were made clear and delegated to every member. (See Table 3.3) 4. Discussion of logistics Things to bring, transport arrangement and things to do discussed and set. (See Table 3.4) 5. End Meeting adjourned. APPENDIX: TABLE 3.1: ITINERARY FOR 24th November 2014 TIME ACTION 6:00 PM Arrival at IKV Business, have dinner at location, take pictures. 7:00 PM Return to Taylor’s University.
  • 36. 36 TABLE 3.2: ITINERARY FOR 25th November 2014 TIME ACTION 4:00 PM Arrival at IKV Business, begin interview 5:30 PM Return to Taylor’s University. TABLE 3.3: DELEGATION OF DUTY NAMES ROLE Amos Tan Chi Yi Transport and recording Chia Sue Hwa Unable to attend Kayla Neoh Jia Wen Transcript writing Mohammad Amir Azmi Unable to attend Foo Shi-ko Transcript writing Anna Neo Transcript writing and interviewing TABLE 3.4: LOGISTICS Logistics Details Transport Amos will be driving. Things to bring Questions, pen and paper, recording devices
  • 37. 37 MINUTES OF THE MEETING (4) DATE: 29th November 2014 TIME: 2:45 PM VENUE: E3.09, Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus DETAILS: MEETING CALLED BY: Amos Tan NOTES TAKEN BY: Amos Tan SUBJECT: Regarding Compilation of Data and Report Writing ATTENDEES: NAME TUTORIAL GROUP ROLE Amos Tan Chi Yi Wednesday Leader / Transport / Secretary Chia Sue Hwa Wednesday Research / Recording / Interviewer Kayla Neoh Jia Wen Wednesday Research / Report writing Mohammad Amir Azmi Wednesday Recording / Report writing Anna Neo Wednesday Report writing / Presentation Foo Shi-ko Wednesday Research / Presentation / Interviewer MINUTES NO. ACTIVITY DETAILS 1. Introduction Brief of current situation. 2. Discussion of situation Details of current situation discussed, problems addressed. (See Table 4.1) 3 Delegation of Duties Duties and details of duties were made clear and delegated to every member. (See Table 4.2) 4. Work Report writing and compiling undertaken. 5. End Meeting adjourned. APPENDIX: TABLE 4.1: ADDRESSING PROBLEMS PROBLEM SOLUTION Report not finished. Report will be finished before end of meeting. Incomplete information More research to be done.
  • 38. 38 TABLE 4.2: DELEGATION OF DUTY NAMES ROLE Amos Tan Chi Yi Report writing (miscellaneous) Chia Sue Hwa Report writing (Summary) Kayla Neoh Jia Wen Report writing (Description of business) Mohammad Amir Azmi Report writing (History of trade) Foo Shi-ko Cover design Anna Neo Compilation of information / Research
  • 39. References 1. Ah Ping Bak Kut Teh @ SS14, Subang Jaya (2012 ,12 July).Retrieved 29 November, 2014, from http://www.j2kfm.com/ah-ping-bak-kut-teh-ss14-subang-jaya/ 2. Galvin. T. ( 2010, 26 August). Ah Ping Bah Kut Teh, a Klang delicacy in Subang Jaya.Retrieved 29 November, 2014, from http://blog.galvintan.com/2010/08/ah-ping-bah-kut-teh/ 3. CC (2014, 3 March). Yikee Seafood Bak Kut The. Retreved 29 November, 2014, from http://www.broughtup2share.com/2014/03/yikee-seafood-bak-kut-teh-tanjung-sepat/ 4. Calvin ( 2011, 7 March). Seafood Bak Kut The at Tanjung Sepat. Retrieved 30 November, 2014,from http://calvin-myjourney.blogspot.com/2011/03/seafood-bak-kut-teh-at-tanjung-sepat.html 39