Tan Yong Him did not invent that uniquely spiced dish called Sarawak laksa – there is probably no single person who can claim credit for that. But, just as Henry Ford did for the motorcar, Tan made it popular and available throughout the state and beyond.
And for that, countless Sarawakians living abroad give copious thanks – because this is more than just a delicious dish that reminds one of home. It is the taste that binds the true Sarawakian not only to his homeland but also to fellow expatriates in the same foreign localities.