Langkawi has definitely changed a lot, for the better, of course. I am amazed that there’s this place called MakLang by Ilham Ceramic – a small cafe that serves local delicacies like Laksa Utara and Nasi Lemak, located in Kampung Bendang Baru which also provides pottery workshops and classes to their patrons.
Origins of MakLang by Ilham Ceramic
Founder, Mohammad Radzi Ismail’s journey into the food and beverage domain was not premeditated but born out of the persistent requests from his pottery students. Radzi started teaching pottery classes since 2020, during the pandemic. He noticed a recurring query from participants about the availability of food & refreshments. Responding to this demand, he initially started by sourcing local treats like kuih-muih and snacks from nearby stalls. However, as the suggestions to start a café grew. He saw an opportunity to enhance the overall experience for his clients and support the ceramic business further.
At the moment, the pottery class is on hiatus due to a staffing shortage resulting from the departure of one of their instructors. However, once a new teacher is onboarded, the classes will recommence. I am eagerly anticipating the resumption of classes. In the meantime, they continue crafting and selling pottery items such as plates, cups, and pots in their modest shop, alongside various other handicraft products.
Location and Ambiance
Situated adjacent to the pottery workshop and showroom on a plot of land owned by Radzi’s grandfather, MakLang by Ilham Ceramic opened its doors on 1 February 2023. The cozy structure exudes a welcoming atmosphere, providing patrons with a charming setting to enjoy a delightful fusion of art and culinary delights.
Homage to Mak Lang
Named in honour of Radzi’s mother, Barishah Hussein, affectionately known as Mak Lang in the village, the restaurant pays tribute to her culinary legacy. MakLang by Ilham Ceramic offers a diverse menu, spanning breakfast, lunch, and snacks, ensuring a delightful dining experience throughout the day.
They are open everyday, except Friday, 8am to 6pm and serve 7 kinds of laksa namely laksa biasa, laksa telur goreng, laksa isi ketam, laksa udang, laksa sambal sotong, laksa kepah and laksa campur (isi ketam + udang + sambal sotong). There are rice dishes too like nasi lemak, nasi sambal petai and others. They are also famous for their cucur udang for they sold out very quickly.
Preserving Family Recipes
Despite his initial reluctance to be labeled a ‘tukang masak’, Radzi took it upon himself to learn the cherished family recipes. Inspired by his mother’s culinary skill, who used to cater for large events and weddings, Radzi is now the guardian of these culinary traditions. With Mak Lang’s guidance, he ensures that these recipes endure and continue to tantalize taste buds which I personally think that he has successfully achieved this.
Honestly, I would return to this location for another serving of laksa, and ideally, by then, their pottery workshops will have resumed their usual schedule, allowing me to participate.
MakLang by Ilham Ceramic
No 33 (150A), Kg. Bendang Baru,
Kampung Kuah, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah
Open 8am to 6pm daily (except Friday)
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xHZk7pcPpUp74R9Y8
IG: https://www.instagram.com/maklang1952
FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089818930983
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