| James Kon |
IT’S a treasure trove of a different kind. Haji Suhaili bin Haji Kawang currently owns one of the biggest collections of Coca-Cola memorabilia in Brunei Darussalam, after he fell in love in 2003 with several collectibles and antiques connected to the popular soft-drink manufacturer.
The former civil servant, who lives in Kampong Salar, Muara, has a wide range of Coca-Cola merchandise, from cups to clocks, Coca-Cola tins from different countries, toys, key chains, fridge magnets and many more.
A special corner of his house has been set aside for the display of the collectibles, with some tucked away safely behind locked glass cabinets.
His passion for all things Coca-Cola began while on a three-month course in the United States, in 2003.
It was there that Haji Suhaili first become attracted to the red-and-white logo of the soft-drink giant.
Haji Suhaili bin Haji Kawang holding a huge bottle of Coca-Cola filled with caps of Coca-Cola drinks
Coca-Cola Polar bear memorabilia – PHOTOS: JAMES KON
“I become fascinated with Coca-Cola while I was in the United States,” said Haji Suhaili, 62, in an interview at his home. “If I see any red-coloured items in a shop, I’d check out whether it is Coca-Cola.”
On his return to Brunei, Haji Suhaili brought with him a suitcase full of Coca-Cola memorabilia.
Despite his extraordinary hobby, his wife, Hajah Baidah binti Haji Jumat, is extremely supportive, and frequently buys Coca-Cola merchandise for him when she goes on overseas trips.
“Without her support and understanding, it would be very hard to keep on collecting Coca-Cola items,” said Haji Suhaili.
A table made from Coca-Cola crates
Glass cabinet filled with Coca-Cola memorabilia
One of Haji Suhaili’s most prize collections
In more than a decade, Haji Suhaili has managed to collect more than a thousand of Coca-Cola memorabilia.
He vows to continue with his passion, and to keep on adding more antiques to his collection.
Beside Coca-Cola, Haji Suhaili has an impressive collection of brass artefacts at his home. He also keeps the vinyl player that he bought with his first pay cheque, which still is in working condition.
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