by Ravindran Raman Kutty
On Malaysia Day (September 16) of 1998, a humble but remarkable establishment opened its doors in our Bandar Sri Damansara community – Grand Union Supermarket.
For the past 26 years, it has been more than just a place to buy groceries. It has been a cornerstone of our daily lives, a hub where families gathered, a place of comfort, and a reflection of the strong bonds we’ve forged within our neighbourhood.
It was always a one-stop shop that catered to our almost every need. Where else could you find hardware, plastics, shoes, slippers, vegetables, and sundries all under one roof? For so many of us, it was a place where everything we needed was right just a few doors or roads away, with products offered at reasonable prices.
Whether it was a light bulb, a roll of duct tape, or a fresh bouquet of vegetables, we knew we could count on Grand Union to have them in stock. The store’s wide array of offerings saved us the hassle of hopping between different stores, and we became so accustomed to this convenience.
Prices were also always reasonable, making it a favourite stop among families, especially those with growing children. Our kids grew up with Grand Union. They ran down to the store to grab an ice cream or a chocolate bar at any time of the day, knowing they would find exactly what they were craving.
The store was a small, constant pleasure in their daily lives, where a simple treat could turn an ordinary afternoon into a special memory. Even now, as our kids have grown older, those moments still linger in our hearts.
Grand Union’s Mr Tan is at the heart of this beloved supermarket. He is an affable, kind-hearted man whose generosity and dedication went far beyond the shelves of his store. His support for the community over the years was unwavering. He always sought ways to contribute to the wellbeing of our residents. He is more than just a shopkeeper; he is a friend, a neighbour, and a constant presence in our lives.
But the supermarket will close its doors at the end of November 2024. As we bid farewell to Grand Union, it’s impossible not to feel a sense of loss. This wonderful family-run business was loyal and steadfast, growing alongside us, sharing our joys and challenges. Thank you, Mr. Tan, and the entire Grand Union team.
You guys will be missed, but your legacy will live on in our hearts.
(The writer is an ex-president of the Bandar Sri Damansara Residents Association)