Kota kinabalu: Despite turning 70, veteran locksmith Poh Kim Tong remains adept at keeping his traditional locksmith business going, a trade he has been running for more than four decades, amid the rapid pace of modernisation.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Poh's journey began when he moved from Sungai Petani, Kedah to the district in 1979. Together with his wife, Lim Chun Hiong, 76, he set up the business to finance their children's education until they secured stable careers in Kota Kinabalu.

"In the past, brass was stronger and purer, whereas today, there are more alloys, and people also use electronic locks more often. However, we still make conventional keys for cars and motorcycles, charging only between RM3 and RM10," Poh told Bernama.

In his 43 years in the business, Poh has witnessed significant technological changes, with key cutting time reduced from 30 minutes using manual methods to five minutes with modern machines. He also maintains a 38-year-old Japanese-made machine at his shop, reflecting his commitment to preserving traditional methods.

Poh hopes the small business that has been crucial in supporting his family's daily expenses can continue to thrive and not fade into obscurity. He expressed concern over the lack of interest among young people in learning the trade, as they perceive it as difficult, dirty work that involves polishing metal.

Despite challenges from competition posed by electronic locks and a decline in customers following the development of satellite towns, Poh's business continues to survive. This resilience is largely due to the strong support of loyal customers across generations who regard him as a close friend.

One such loyal customer is Selvia Ben, 46, who has been availing Poh's key-cutting services since she was a schoolgirl. "Since I was little, my mother would always bring me here to have keys made. I have never gone anywhere else. I have had my gate keys, house keys and all my car keys made here," she shared.