Raffles Institution pays tribute to 'Uncle Heng', beloved cafe operator who served school for over 40 years
School canteens are among the fondest memories many people carry from their school days. They are not only places where friends across classes can catch up with each other, but also serve as an oasis away from the classrooms, refuelling hungry stomachs and satisfying cravings with snacks and drinks.At the former Raffles Junior College and its current incarnation, the integrated Raffles Institution (RI), many of those memories are intertwined with one familiar figure: Heng Ah Kim, affectionately known to generations of Rafflesians as Uncle Heng.Uncle Heng died at the age of 85 on Monday (Sept 21).For more than four decades, Heng operated Heng's Cafe at the former Paterson Road and Mount Sinai campuses before moving with the school to its current Bishan campus."Uncle Heng was a constant in the Raffles community. Behind the counter, he was always there with a ready smile, a warm welcome and genuine care for those he served. "Auntie Heng was by his side throughout, and together they built something that went far beyond a drinks and snacks stall," RI wrote in a Facebook post on Wednesday.