KAMSIAH’S TRADITIONAL KUIH KAPIT POPULAR DURING FESTIVALS, INCLUDING CHINESE NEW YEAR

KANGAR, Jan 6 (Bernama) -- The traditional kuih kapit (love letter) made by Kamsiah Tahir, 65, from Kampung Seberang Tokpi in Kuala Perlis, has become a beloved treat, especially during festive seasons like Chinese New Year and Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

Passed down from her late mother, Puteh Che Pa, Kamsiah’s kuih kapit continues to win the hearts of many customers of all ethnicities.

Affectionately known as ‘Mak Long Kamsiah’, she stays true to her mother’s original recipe and has experienced a surge in orders as Chinese New Year approaches later this month.

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In 1984, Kamsiah’s mother began making and selling the delicacy at the Kuala Perlis morning market, inspired by a Chinese friend who adored the treat.

“The demand for kuih kapit increases during festive seasons, with loyal customers from various communities praising its authentic taste,” she shared in an interview with Bernama at her home.

She said that Chinese customers prefer a texture that is not too crunchy, while others have even requested extra eggs to make the kuih kapit taste richer.

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“I am grateful that it is still a popular choice, and I will continue to maintain the authentic taste and quality of the kuih,” she said.

Kamsiah said she uses classic ingredients such as fresh coconut milk, rice flour, sugar and Grade A eggs to ensure a consistent, long-lasting flavour that does not become stale.

During festive seasons, her kuih kapit sales could exceed 600 jars, with each jar containing 50 pieces priced at RM15.

She said making it requires nearly 10 hours of preparation for a two-kilogramme batch of flour, demanding precision to prevent burning and careful folding to ensure the kuih kapit retains its perfect shape.

Kamsiah has also ensured that the snack-making skill has been passed down to her four daughters since they were young.

"My youngest daughter, Maizatul Izzati Musa, 24, helps me and is eager to continue our family legacy," she said, adding that she sells the kuih from home and promotes it online.

Eng Kiau, 58, a loyal customer from Kuala Perlis, expressed her fondness for Kamsiah’s kuih kapit, especially during Chinese New Year.

“Mak Long Kamsiah’s kuih kapit is unique. It's crisp, doesn't get stale quickly and has a wonderfully rich flavour," she said.

-- BERNAMA