SERIAN: From the early afternoon at Serian’s Ramadan bazaar, visitors are greeted by a bustling drinks stall with a name that piques curiosity – Air Balang Berhantu.
The man behind the stall, 33-year-old Irwan Paili, has been serving up his signature beverages since 2017, captivating customers with vibrant flavours and generous ingredients.
By day, Irwan is a contractor, balancing his full-time job before setting up his stall in the evening.
His dedication has made Air Balang Berhantu a staple at food festivals and bazaars across Serian and Simunjan.
“The name means ‘haunting drinks’ because once people try them, they keep coming back,” he told Sarawak Tribune.
This year, he offers eight refreshing varieties, including Blackcurrant Mojito, Apple Mojito, Strawberry Mojito, Laicikang, Khatira, Chocolate, Mango Yogurt, and Mix Fruit Yogurt.
His mojito series stands out with real fruit pieces, jelly, and basil seeds, while his chocolate, mango, and mix fruit drinks are enriched with scoops of ice cream.
“It’s not just about making a profit. I want to give customers the best, especially in this blessed month,” he said, stressing his commitment to quality.
Unlike some vendors who limit ingredients, Irwan ensures each cup is packed with fruit and toppings, believing that generosity enhances both taste and customer satisfaction.
His approach has paid off as his stall sees a steady stream of patrons daily, drawn not just by the flavours but by the value they receive.
Prices are set at RM4 per cup and RM6 for a packet drink, which offers a larger serving.
To accommodate modern payment preferences, Irwan accepts both cash and DuitNow QR, making transactions seamless for customers.
With two assistants helping him serve the crowd, his stall remains efficient despite the high demand.
As the Ramadan bazaar continues, Air Balang Berhantu remains a must-visit for those seeking a truly refreshing experience.
For Irwan, the joy of serving others goes beyond business.
“It’s about sharing good flavours and good moments, one cup at a time,” he said.
