A passionate entrepreneur dedicated to quality experiences and heartfelt connections, Edward Low Yoong Choy, CEO of Kopi Street, has made a mark in the local F&B industry. With a vision to create a welcoming space, he established Kopi Street as a go-to kopitiam for authentic local delights. In an interview with Top 10 of Malaysia, Edward talks about his journey, the values shaping his success, and his aspirations.
Edward Low’s path to entrepreneurship was anything but conventional. A graduate of TAR College, he began his professional journey in the IT sector before transitioning into the insurance industry as a full-time agent. His career then took another turn when he ventured into the marketing department of the hospitality sector, gaining invaluable experience and insight into consumer behaviour and brand positioning.
With a vision to create a warm and welcoming space where people could enjoy authentic local delicacies, Edward took a bold step in 2007 and established his own kopitiam. Recalling the early days, he shares, “I remember waking up before sunrise to prepare the food for customers.” That small restaurant in Kepong soon became a beloved gathering place for regular patrons, and the humble venture began to flourish.
The fundamental idea behind Kopi Street was to provide a comfortable and inviting environment where people could spend quality time together. “We noticed that human touch is important for a neighbourhood kopitiam,” Edward remarks. Ensuring quality and sustainability in both food and beverages has been a key focus, as he aims to create memorable moments for customers.
Consistency is one of the cornerstones of Kopi Street’s success. Delivering high-quality food and service is paramount to building and maintaining customer trust. “Earning trust from the customers is the most crucial thing to make sure,” Edward emphasises. Customer experience is always a priority, and he firmly believes that a satisfied customer is the backbone of a thriving business. “Happy customers, happy business,” he adds.
What sets Kopi Street apart from other kopitiams is its unique signature menu. Items such as their specialty coffee, nasi lemak, and homemade pan mee have become customer favourites. “Each menu we make is unique and authentic,” Edward shares. He believes that offering dishes that resonate with customers on a personal level helps foster a sense of belonging, making them feel at home at Kopi Street.
Despite the restaurant’s success, Edward acknowledges that running a business comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the key difficulties is adapting to ever-changing consumer trends. “Keeping up with customers’ preferences requires continual adaptation,” he notes. To maintain an edge over competitors, he places strong emphasis on performance and presentation. “Quality over quantity,” he remarks, highlighting the importance of maintaining high standards in every aspect of the business.
As a leader, Edward believes in leading with empathy and understanding, particularly towards his staff. “By building strong relationships, I aim to create a positive workplace culture,” he says. Empowerment and trust are vital aspects of his leadership approach, as he recognises that fostering confidence and accountability among employees contributes to overall business success.
Edward finds great inspiration in seeing customers enjoy their meals. “Hearing a customer say this place reminds them of ‘home’ motivates me to keep delivering that heartfelt experience,” he shares. Over the years, many customers have grown up with Kopi Street, further fuelling his passion for providing excellent service and high-quality food.
Balancing professional and personal life is another area where Edward places significant importance. Despite his demanding schedule, he ensures that he makes time for his family. “Family is my top priority,” he says. For aspiring entrepreneurs, he advises always to seek knowledge and learn continuously. “Every day is a lesson to learn from,” he remarks, encouraging young business owners to stay curious and adaptable in their entrepreneurial journeys.
With his unwavering commitment to quality, customer experience, and community, Edward Low continues to drive Kopi Street forward, preserving the tradition of the neighbourhood kopitiam while embracing the evolution of modern dining.
