NANI'S KUIH BAKUL A FAVOURITE TREAT FOR CNY CELEBRATIONS

By Nurul Syahirah Zulkifli

KANGAR, Jan 10 (Bernama) -- The popular ‘kuih bakul’, traditionally enjoyed during the Chinese New Year celebrations, made by a housewife from Taman Indera here, has not only become a festive treat but also a favourite gift for friends and family during the CNY season.

Nani Maslina Sulaiman Najidi, 50, who has been making kuih bakul since 2017, said there is always high demand for her homemade kuih bakul during the festive season.

"Making kuih bakul is not easy as it requires up to 24 hours of cooking, followed by three days of drying the banana leaves to ensure the kuih doesn't mould. This requires a lot of patience, but Alhamdulillah, it has become easier after several years," she told Bernama when met today.

The mother of four said she receives orders for over 1,200 pieces of kuih bakul every Chinese New Year, with each 300-gram piece priced at RM15 and wrapped in banana leaves, while the kuih in paper cups is priced at RM11.

Nani Maslina said most of her Chinese customers buy her kuih bakul to give as gifts or serve to guests, including their Muslim friends, creating a harmonious atmosphere and strengthening unity among different ethnic groups.

Nani Maslina explained that to ensure the quality and freshness of the kuih bakul, she uses vacuum packaging for deliveries outside of Perlis. However, delivery challenges persist, including the risk of delays that may lead to damage to the kuih.

"Alhamdulillah, the feedback from customers has been very positive. In fact, I once received an order from a son who wanted to fulfil his father's final request to enjoy the kuih bakul, as he was battling stage-four cancer," she said.

She is also willing to share her knowledge and skills in making kuih bakul with younger generations interested in learning how to make this traditional Chinese delicacy.

-- BERNAMA