even outside of the festive season, ketupat daun buluh (steamed glutinous rice in bamboo leaf) enjoys strong demand.
Sarina Saidin, 56, from Kampung Wang Perah in Jitra, attributes the popularity of the traditional Kedah treat to the aroma imparted by bamboo leaves and its rich taste.
“Every step of the process is carried out meticulously to ensure consistency,” she told Bernama.
Sarina uses a coloured string system to identify the different types of ketupat buluh she makes: red for the original, yellow for black glutinous rice, blue for ones with beans and green for those with corn.
They are sold by weight, with the original priced at RM28 per kg, black glutinous rice at RM35 per kg, and the bean and corn variants at RM30 per kg.
“The original, black glutinous rice, and corn varieties are the most popular,” said Sarina, who has been operating her business from home for the past four years.
The products are promoted online, with orders coming from various states and delivered through the post.
Sarina said she was thankful for the support and assistance provided by Kedah Regional Development Authority, particularly equipment and business guidance.
“Among the assistance were a freezer and electronic weighing scale, enabling my business to grow,” she said.
