Shah Alam's 'Acik Kusyen': The artisan behind RM30,000 monthly car interior makeovers
Abu Zarin has 20 years of experience in car upholstery.
SHAH ALAM – From a modest workshop in Jelebu to transforming luxury vehicles like Porsches, Abu Zarin Abu Hassan, known as 'Acik Kusyen', has dedicated over 20 years to mastering car upholstery and interior modification.
With increasing demand, Abu Zarin relocated his workshop from Taman Senawang Jaya to a new, larger space in the Tasik Jaya Industrial Area earlier this year. Abu Zarin showing the Acik Kusyen workshop, now relocated to Taman Tasik Senawang.
This move offers clients a more comfortable experience and a bigger work area.
He began his career learning from his brother's furniture upholstery business before completing an automotive diploma.
'I started my own workshop after finishing my studies, offering services to repair torn seat cushions and install new ones in vehicles.
"I also provide cleaning services and full car interior decoration,' he said.
His business now handles approximately ten cars monthly, generating between RM20,000 to RM30,000.
Prices vary based on the service and materials used, ranging from RM900 for PVC seat covers to as much as RM9,000 for a complete vintage car interior restoration.
'The most expensive job I have handled was a vintage car that came in completely bare. We did the entire interior from start to finish. Our work is well received. Abu Zarin displaying the upholstery material options offered to customers at his workshop.
"Some even travel from Johor after hearing about us through social media or referrals,' he shared.
Abu Zarin's process involves customers selecting designs, materials and colours.
Sewing typically takes a week, and installation is completed in just one day.
Despite his success, he continues to improve his business skills through Risda training and support.
He also navigated tough periods, including the pandemic, by securing loans from Tekun and local banks.
Looking ahead, he hopes to eventually expand into the Klang Valley but is taking a measured approach to ensure quality and staff capacity.
'I definitely want to expand there, but for now I need to maintain quality and focus on what I have. Insyaallah, one day we will reach that goal,' he said.
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