IT all began in a small home kitchen in 2015. What started as simple, heartfelt packed meals has grown into Aisha’s Lunchbox – a restaurant celebrated for Western and local dishes, now recognised for its professionalism and dedication to Sarawak’s culinary heritage.
Officially established in 2018, Aisha’s Lunchbox opens its doors to its first Ramadan buffet today (March 6) – a feast celebrating kampung flavours, tradition and culinary craftsmanship. Over 13 evenings, diners can savour dishes where traditional recipes meet modern presentation.
Each dish is prepared under the guidance of experienced chefs, while students from the Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS), a state government-backed training centre, gain real-world experience in a professional kitchen.
“Our Ramadan buffet is not only about serving food. It’s about creating an experience where diners enjoy authentic kampung flavours while our students learn to deliver professional service and high-quality dishes,” said Paulina Linang, the restaurant’s manager with nearly three decades of experience in hospitality.
Her experience is as rich as the dishes served. Having worked at international hotels including Hilton, Grand Margherita and Holiday Inn, she brings the same discipline and five-star standards to every corner of Aisha’s Lunchbox.
“Every staff member is trained thoroughly, covering service etiquette, movement, communication, protocol compliance and teamwork – from basic to advanced levels. We emphasise that this is not just a job. It is a profession requiring practical skills, responsibility and dedication,” she said.
Paulina’s vision extends beyond current success.
“My goal is for Aisha’s Lunchbox to operate with standards on par with a five-star hotel. Quality food, disciplined work, proper service systems and consistent staff training are our foundations,” she added.
Through its partnership with CENTEXS, Aisha’s Lunchbox nurtures local culinary talent while maintaining professional standards.
Malissa Sahari, Corporate and Strategic Communications Head at CENTEXS Commercial, explained that the collaboration is part of the ‘Traditional Sarawak Heritage Cookery’ programme, which preserves traditional recipes while preparing students for modern hospitality.
“Most dishes are prepared by experienced chefs, with support from CENTEXS alumni and students in industrial training. Around 70–80 per cent of graduates secure job opportunities before completing their studies.
“Industry representatives from Waterfront, Hilton and Grand Margherita are invited for interviews and engagement two weeks before the programme ends. Our curriculum is aligned with current industry needs,” she said.
Students themselves are living proof of the programme’s impact. Lorenzo Desmet Steve Hudson, now a staff member at Aisha’s Lunchbox, reflected:
“The training at CENTEXS was thorough. We focused on personal hygiene, food safety and hospitality fundamentals, while honing communication, customer service, operations, protocol compliance and working in a fast-paced environment. Customer satisfaction remained the top priority,” he said.
For Mohamad Syafiq Khairulnizam Abdullah, another alumnus:
“My training at CENTEXS was incredibly fulfilling. Through the F&B and housekeeping programmes, I gained knowledge that helped me adapt to the demands of Aisha’s Lunchbox. Madam Paulina guided us effectively, making the experience meaningful and practical.”
Together, these partnerships show that local heritage cuisine can flourish at the highest professional standards, merging tradition with industry expertise. Guests enjoy authentic flavours while students gain the skills and mentorship needed for successful hospitality careers.
This Ramadan, Aisha’s Lunchbox offers more than a meal – it provides an experience where heritage, taste and the future of Sarawak’s culinary talent intersect.
From a humble home kitchen to a restaurant poised for five-star excellence, Aisha’s Lunchbox tells a story of passion, mentorship and ambition, proving how dedication can transform both palates and futures.
