ALOR SETAR: Che Omar Hamid, 51, is an enterprising trader in Pasir Kampung Berjaya, a market for antiques similar to that in Lorong Kulit of George Town, Penang.
A PASSION: Che Omar holds up one of his antiques for sale. — Bernama photo
He resigned from his government job four years ago to venture fully into selling antiques.
“I am very interested in antiques. I went around the country to obtain antique items. I accumulated the stuff with a revolving capital of RM10,000,” he told Bernama.
The items he has for sale include old charcoal irons, candle-holders, old coins and copper trays.
“Most of the stuff I sell are valued at less than RM100 a piece. The most expensive costs only RM500,” he said.
Che Omar said some people might argue that the goods at his stall were too expensive but antique enthusiasts know that price is not a determinant for rare items.
He said he had regular customers, and even the elite of society came to his stall to acquire certain antiques.
He also said that some of the charcoal irons he sold were about 200 years old and he had old coins dating back 300 to 500 years.
“I have about a tonne of antique items which have yet to be cleaned up for sale,” said Che Omar who also sells his wares in Kangar, Perlis.
He said he would buy antiques from prospective sellers by weight, at RM18 per kg.
Many of the antique items he sells also come from abroad, including countries such as China, Egypt, England, Germany, Indonesia, Japan and the Netherlands. — Bernama