Welcome To The Ship

3 decades ago in Malaysia entrepreneurs were understandably hesitant of venturing
into the western food restaurant business. They were still trying to wean themselves
from the influences of their pre-independence colonial masters and to rediscover
their local Asian values.

Nevertheless, there were these young restauranteurs who believed that good food always
crosses cultures and prejudices, and appeals to discerning consumers. Mr. Foo Hee Hoon,
Mr. Foo Hee Loon and other partners almost single-handedly took on the formidable challenge
to start The Ship restaurant (The Ship), opening at Jalan Sultan Ismail what was later to become one of the many more outlets all over Malaysia. Although it wasn't exactly smooth sailing all the way, there was never a doubt that its captain at the helm was steadily steering it towards sure success.

Mr. Foo Hee Hoon and his equally talented wife together with their hand-picked chefs were on hand daily to serve up a wide variety of the tastiest western food from the choicest and freshest ingredients, which had patrons returning for more. This eventually gained The Ship the reputation of serving The Best Steak In Town, which essentially was the great food, well served under a unique decorative setting and on top of that all prices are value for money. The unique exterior of its restaurant resemble an almost life-size hull of a ship, and on stepping inside one will be impressed with the finely recreated likeness of a sea-going vessel.

Complementing the theme is service provided by captains and crews in maritime uniform. Such is the attraction of The Ship that it is common for foreign visitors of the country to seek its whereabouts. The Ship has, by word of mouth, contributed in making Malaysia a popular tourist destination. This, too, is just another indication of The Ship sailing on to greater heights. If imitation is a form of flattery, The Ship must be doing something right, because many others have since followed suit with western restaurants sprouting up everywhere. In the face of growing competition, The Ship not only confidently hold on to its own premier position but has since expanded further with 5 more outlets at strategic locations, and more are being planned. More importantly, each of these outlets has proven a tremendous success story in its own right.

Not one to rest on its laurels, the founder of The Ship's understanding of local consumers' preference has kept him ahead of competitors. The booming economy in the late 1980s contributed to Malaysia consumers expecting more than a good meal alone, so The Ship introduced live musical entertainment to its selected outlets, bringing in the concept of wine, dine and be entertained. Customers' response was nothing short of fantastic, and musical entertainment has since become a favourite, regular part of The Ship.

The Ship foresees bright prospects in strengthening and expanding its thriving business, and plans are being carefully made by Mr. Foo and his capable managers to diversify into ventures synergistic with the core business. With the continued loyal support of its many customers, suppliers, management, staffs and friends, The Ship will not only be assured of its own success but will also contribute meaningfully to the success of The Nation's Vision 2020.