INSPIRED BY A STRUGGLING CUSTOMER, KHAIRRUNI OFFERS KUIH RAYA FOR AS LOW AS RM6

By Razif Rosli

IPOH, March 20 (Bernama) -- A trader’s compassion for a struggling customer who could not afford kuih raya for their child sparked an initiative to sell these cookies for just RM6 per container.

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Khairruni Ahmad Zabidi, 64, recalled the heartbreaking moment and, after discussing it with her daughter, Norhidayu Abdullah, 34, decided to make cookies affordable for all.

She now sells over 100 types of festive cookies, which she makes with her sister, Suhairah Ahmad Zabidi, 66, and Norhidayu, at her stall in the parking lot of a Shell petrol station on Jalan Raja Ashman here.

“It’s common for children to cling to cookie jars, but with prices ranging from RM28 to RM35 per jar, some parents just can’t afford them.

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“So, I decided to sell biskut raya for as low as RM6, making it possible for customers with RM50 to buy up to eight containers,” she told Bernama.

Now in its second year, the Rahmah cookie initiative has received a strong response, with approximately 7,500 containers sold since March 15. The cookies include mazola, pineapple tarts, almond London, Nestum and oat cookies and rempeyek.

Khairruni said each container holds between 18 and 20 pieces, but her main priority is ensuring everyone can enjoy the festive season, even if it means earning only a small profit.

“All cookies are homemade in my kitchen with the help of 15 single mothers, providing them with a source of income.

“Alhamdulillah, the response has been very encouraging. Many customers from last year have returned, along with my long-time loyal buyers,” she said.

With over 20 years of experience making kuih raya, Khairruni said she prioritises taste and quality.

“Some may assume that our cookies are of lower quality due to the low price, but customers say they are comparable to premium cookies.

“In today’s economy, people are trying to save, so I help by offering affordable prices, and in return, they support my business,” she said, adding that cookies are baked daily based on demand.

Recalling the challenges of running a business, Khairruni said she once lost her trading space and struggled to find a new location until the petrol station owner offered her a spot in the parking lot.

“Besides sustaining our livelihood, this business also helps cover the medical expenses of my daughter, Norhidayu, who has health issues,” she said.

Meanwhile, a returning customer, Hasbol Mustafa, 41, said this was his second year purchasing kuih raya from the stall due to the variety and affordability.

“Whenever I return to Ipoh, I always stop by to stock up on kuih raya because they are delicious, have plenty of options and are reasonably priced. That’s why people keep coming back for these RM6 cookies as Aidilfitri approaches,” he said.

-- BERNAMA