This article is available in video format: Youtube
From Beautician to Breakfast Star
When Dephanie, a part-time beautician in Kuching, Sarawak, decided to help her mother at their humble kolo mee stall, she probably did not expect to become an overnight internet sensation. But after a few candid videos surfaced on social media, her small corner at Peding Food Court turned into the latest must-visit hotspot.
In an interview with SAYS, Dephanie admitted she was unfazed by the sudden buzz. According to her Facebook, her first viral moment came on 11 April, showing her casually working alongside her mother. Her simple post, inviting people to “support” her from 8.30 am on weekdays, quietly set the stage for a social media storm.
Likes, Shares, and a Line Out the Door
Things escalated quickly. A second video posted on 14 April racked up over 2,800 likes, bringing a wave of curious foodies straight to her stall. In less time than it takes to finish a bowl of kolo mee, Dephanie became a local celebrity.
One particular video shared by Sarawak Foodie took the buzz to another level, amassing over two million views on Facebook and more than 420,000 on TikTok. It turns out, nothing sells noodles faster than a good story — and maybe a bit of viral charm.
Balancing Two Worlds
Starting 14 April, Dephanie committed herself full-time to the stall in the mornings, balancing her beautician gigs in the afternoons. With a little help from her husband when his schedule allows, the family-run business is running smoother — and busier — than ever.
The secret sauce? A mix of social media magic, old-fashioned hard work, and a genuinely endearing backstory. As Dephanie herself put it, the attention has been good for business, and she remains unfazed by the limelight.
Rising Above the Green-Eyed Monsters
While basking in her newfound success, Dephanie also had a message for those who might be feeling a little green. “Everyone should focus on their own business without being envious or critical out of jealousy,” she said, adding, “I am not stealing or robbing; I am simply earning money through my own abilities.”
Hard to argue with that unless someone has figured out a way to cook up envy into a side dish.
Final Thoughts
Dephanie’s story is a feel-good example of how the right opportunity, a bit of timing, and a whole lot of hustle can change someone’s fortunes overnight. On the flip side, it also reminds us that viral fame can come with unexpected pressures. Still, if the toughest part is handling a few grumpy competitors while serving up delicious bowls of kolo mee, it sounds like a pretty good problem to have.
