27/03/2025

THURSDAY | MAR 27, 2025

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Malaysian Paper

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Poignant encounter sparks compassion

IPOH: An encounter with a struggling parent who could not afford kuih raya for his child prompted Khairruni Ahmad Zabidi, 64, to sell festive cookies for just RM6 per pack. After discussing the heart-wrenching incident with her daughter Norhidayu Abdullah, 34, they decided to make the Aidilfitri treats affordable for everyone. Khairruni sells over 100 types of cookies, which she makes with her sister, Suhairah Ahmad Zabidi, 66, and Norhidayu, at her stall in the parking lot of a petrol station in Jalan Raja Ashman. “It’s common for children to hanker for kuih raya , but with prices ranging from RM28 to RM35 per pack, some parents just can’t afford them. “So, I decided to sell them for RM6, making it possible for customers with RM50 to buy up to eight packs.” Now in its second year, her “Rahmah cookie initiative” has received a strong response, with approximately 7,500 packs sold since March 15, Bernama reported. The cookie varieties include mazola, o Home baker sells kuih raya at RM6 per pack to make festive treats available to everyone

the success of rehabilitation programmes by the Prisons Department. Such initiatives aim to equip inmates with valuable skills to help them rebuild their lives after release. The cookies are available daily from 9am to 4.30pm. Proceeds from the sales go to the Inmates’ Welfare and Rehabilitation Trust Fund, with participating inmates receiving incentives based on their skill levels. The funds also support the procurement of raw materials, facility upgrades, TVET skill training and rehabilitation activities, including religious events, sports, arts and cultural programmes. – Bernama “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 long-time loyal buyers,” she said. With over 20 years’ 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 brands. “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 the cookies are baked daily based on demand. Recounting the challenges of running her business, Khairruni said she once lost her trading space and struggled to find a new location before the petrol station owner offered her a spot in the parking lot. “Apart from sustaining our livelihood, this business also helps cover the medical expenses for Norhidayu, who has health issues,” she said. 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,” he said.

Khairruni recommending some of her bestsellers to visitors at her stall. – BERNAMAPIC

18 and 20 pieces, but her main priority is ensuring everyone can enjoy the festive season, even if it means she only earns a small profit.

pineapple tarts, almond London, Nestum, oats and rempeyek . Khairruni said each pack contains between

Cookies made by inmates hit sweet spot KUALA LUMPUR: Thanks to the power of social media, Raya cookies made by inmates and sold at the My Pride Product Gallery in the Kajang Prison Complex have gained popularity since the start of Ramadan.

tests, more than 40 varieties of cookies and snacks, including rempeyek , muruku and fried tempe were selected for sale at prices ranging from RM12 to RM30 per jar. Among the bestsellers are “Tart Nenas Geboo” from Pengkalan Chepa, “Cinta Hati Dahlia” from Seberang Perai and “Swiss Tart” from Bentong. Other favourites include “Tart Nenas Cheese”, “Butang Baju Abang Jamil”, “Almond Chocolate”, “Black Button Cookies”, “Rainbow Delight”, “Mazola”, “Makmur”, “Bangkit”, “Biskut Semperit”, “Popia Manis”, “Kuih Rotan” and “Peanut Crunchy Cookies”. The overwhelming response not only reflects the quality of the products but also highlights

Commissioner-General of Prisons Datuk Abdul Aziz Abdul Razak said as of March 21, over 60,000 jars of Raya cookies made by more than 300 inmates from prisons in Pokok Sena, Seberang Perai, Tapah, Batu Gajah, Kajang, Sungai Udang, Kluang, Simpang Renggam, Bentong and Pengkalan Chepa have been sold. “Every year, we sell these Raya cookies, but this year’s response has been extraordinary. Congratulations to the prison inmates and institutions nationwide involved in this year’s production,” Abdul Aziz said. Preparations for this year’s sales began early, with participating prisons submitting over 80 product samples for evaluation. Following taste

The buzz began when lawyer and social media influencer Tun Laila shared a video showcasing various types of Raya cookies and frozen foods sold at the gallery. Her endorsement highlighted the premium quality of the cookies, that were sold at prices much lower than those in the market. As a result, eager customers have flocked to the gallery, causing a temporary pause in sales to replenish stock.