90 years later, family-run Yacob Sahib Trading remains Kuching’s go-to spice shop

The variety of spices sold at Yacob Sahib Trading at Gambir Street Kuching.

By Wilfred Pilo

KUCHING, Dec 15: Even after 90 years of business, Yacob Sahib Trading in Kuching is still the go-to shop for purchasing spices.

The third-generation proprietor of the shop, 52-year-old trader Mohamad Iskandar, said spices were now part of his life as he had taken over the business from his father, Abdul Kader Yacob, who took it over from his grandfather, O. A Mohamed Yacob.

Boasting a variety of more than 60 spices, Mohamad said his favourite was Indian cumin due to its sweet, spicy flavour, which he uses to enhance the taste of his favourite barbeque and satay dishes.

Mohamad Iskandaris, the third-generation proprietor of Yacob Sahib Trading.

“If you love to barbeque, cumin is a must-have spice. This spice is also versatile enough to be added to any spicy dish,” he said to DayakDaily.

Established in 1933, the business has changed from general trading to focusing mainly on spices and herbs.

“We specialise in these commodities as its importer, exporter, and general merchant for our local market. People come here mainly to buy spice or customise it based on their needs.

“To make it easier, we have packed common spices together as merchandise. We have a small factory nearby to do this,” he said.

Mohamad’s father, Abdul Kader Yacob, in the earlier days of the shop’s establishment.

Mohamad revealed that the most expensive spice sold at his shop is saffron, imported from Spain, which he sells at RM24 per gramme.

“I am pleased that even after 90 years, our shop is still serving the needs of our customers. Most of them are regulars, and we know what they need.”

He added that their shop is always busy during festival periods, especially during Ramadan.

Among the popular spices from the shop, he said, are turmeric, chilli, fennel seeds, coriander, poppy seeds, cloves, cinnamon, star annis, and cardamon.

Yacob Sahib Trading is located at 25A Jalan Gambir, Kuching. — DayakDaily

Yacob Sahib Trading at Jalan Gambir in Kuching.