40-year crunch with a cult following

The Star

2 days ago

Recipe for success: A worker preparing an order of muruku in Guar Perahu, Bukit Mertajam — Bernama
BUKIT MERTAJAM: A proudly Malaysian-made snack has stood the test of time since 1984, gaining loyal customers locally and abroad thanks to its unique recipe passed down through the generations.
The homegrown brand, run by a husband and wife team from Guar Perahu, here, continues to thrive with its authentic flavours and commitment to natural ingredients.
Idris Alias, 67, and Fatimah Ishak, 63, started their muruku business from home after Fatimah inherited the recipe from her mother-in-law.
Fatimah said the uniqueness of their product lies in its use of natural ingredients without any colouring and it contains no eggs, anchovies or other animal-based products.
'Because of that, our muruku is suitable for those on a vegetarian diet,' she told Bernama.
She said that when they first started the business, she was seven months pregnant.
'As a result, we only made small batches. We had little capital, but I still gave it a try by taking orders from friends.
'We started at home and gradually expanded our business. Nine years ago, we opened a shop in Kubang Semang.
'We reinvested our profits and the business gradually grew,' she said.
Fatimah said over 85% of their customers are from the Chinese community, with Chinese New Year being the peak season every year.
'We once received an order from Taiwan but had to turn it down due to high shipping costs. However, the customer came here personally and bought a large quantity to bring back,' she said.
Fatimah said they currently use two frying machines, although only one operates on normal days with a production capacity of 150kg per day.
During festive seasons, output can reach up to 200kg daily.
Meanwhile, Idris shared that their family business is now supported by their son and daughter-in-law.
Speaking about the challenges faced as entrepreneurs, he said limited operating space remains the main issue in meeting high demand, which has even led them to decline offers to place their product in a convenience store chain.
Nevertheless, the couple is determined to expand the business in the future, with hopes of passing it on to their only child.
'My advice to young entrepreneurs is to first identify your product and your target customers. Patience is essential in the business world.
'Most importantly, as Muslims, we must always give charity and pay zakat. That is the key to sustained blessings, not just in terms of income, but also health,' Idris said.