by Wang Zexu 1002580460, Wang Minyu 1002577905
Yin Chenxueer 1002580666, Zhang Lizi 1002580620

The midday sun brings sweltering heat to Kuala Lumpur, and a little-known snack shop beside UCSI University holds warmth for overseas learners. Twenty-four-year-old local owner Aiman previously worked as an electrical engineer before launching this small retail business. He arrives to restock at 10 a.m. every day and stays open until 10 p.m. The shop becomes stuffy and crowded at noon, his busiest shift, making daily operations exhausting with only thin profit margins

A 20-something shop owner who used to be an electrical engineer runs his store underscorching midday heat. He heals confused international students with his own life stories

Most customers are international students, whose politeness and kindness make Aiman eager to open up and chat with them. He regularly draws on his tough engineering career experiences to encourage students struggling with academic stress. He tells them never to give up when facing difficulties, because constant effort can overcome any obstacle.

Aiman introduces local snacks to international student customers | Caption: He patiently shares different local treats with every young visitor

Having lived through the struggles of being a student himself, he deeply understands the loneliness of studying far away from home. He is always willing to spare time listening to young people’s worries and offering heartfelt encouragement. Many students leave the shop with renewed confidence after their casual talks with him.

Aiman sorts and arranges packs of traditional snacks at noon | Caption: He prepares goods alone to welcome the busiest midday crowd

Amid commercialised campus surroundings, this snack shop sells more than local traditional snacks. The young entrepreneur shares his genuine empathy and life lessons, crafting a touching, comforting story unique to the neighbourhood around UCSI University

Our filming team documents the shop’s daily moments | Caption: Behind-the-scenes shot of our interview and feature shooting