A LONG-established sports shoe retailer at Komtar, Eng Hoe & Co, marked 45 years of operation this year, continuing its quiet presence built on trust and loyal customers rather than heavy promotion.
The shop’s owner, Tommy Ooi, was presented with a certificate of appreciation by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow during the Komtar Carnival held in early December.
The recognition was given to businesses that have operated in Komtar for more than 40 years.
Ooi said the award reflected not only the shop’s long history, but also its journey alongside Komtar’s development over the decades.
He shared that Eng Hoe’s roots go back to the 1970s, when his father started the business along Penang Road.
“At that time, the shop sold a variety of imported goods, similar to a small department store, and was part of Penang’s early commercial scene.
“When Komtar was developed, the family relocated the business. In 1980, they bought their current shop lot on the second floor of Komtar for RM160,000.
“Eng Hoe was among the earliest traders to move into the complex,” he told Buletin Mutiara.
It was also during this period that the business shifted focus, gradually specialising in sports goods, especially sports shoes.
Ooi recalled that business was slow in the early years as only a small number of shops were operating in Komtar.
“The situation improved in the mid-1980s when supermarkets, fashion outlets and entertainment venues opened in Komtar, drawing large crowds and boosting sales for shops within the complex,” he said.
A major turning point came in 1989 when Ooi introduced Brooks running shoes. The brand later became Eng Hoe’s main product and remains its signature offering today. The shop also sells basketball shoes, hiking footwear and selected sports apparel.
However, Ooi noted that Komtar’s popularity has been declining over the years as new shopping malls opened around the city.
Currently, Eng Hoe depends mainly on long-time customers and new visitors who learn about the shop through online reviews, while younger customers are fewer.
Meanwhile, Komtar management has announced a new rental incentive starting in 2026 in conjunction with the building’s 40th anniversary. The scheme offers a full rental waiver in the first year, 50% rent in the second year and full rent from the third year, with a minimum lease of three years.
Ooi welcomed the move, saying it could help attract more businesses, increase foot traffic and revive the shopping environment in Komtar.
He also suggested that more activities should be organised throughout different sections of Komtar, adding that spreading events across the large complex would help more businesses benefit.
After 45 years of operation, Eng Hoe & Co has become more than just a retail shop, standing as a symbol of resilience and long-term commitment alongside the growth of George Town.
Story by Edmund Lee