GEORGE TOWN: At first glance, it resembles a delicate glass sculpture with blossoms frozen inside.
But a closer look reveals jelly art – a translucent dessert featuring lifelike flowers crafted through a slow, intricate injection process.
In a free workshop, about 20 participants were guided through each step – from preparing the base jelly and mixing colours to using a syringe and special needle to “draw” petals and leaves within the transparent canvas.
The three-hour session, conducted by instructor Alice Lim, was organised by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) at the Bayan Baru Multipurpose Hall on Saturday.
Latefah Abdul Jamil, 49, who sells biscuits and traditional desserts in Jalan Perak, said the workshop opened new doors for her small business.
“I have made a lot of flavoured jelly to sell but never learnt how to create sophisticated designs.
“With the skills I have learned, I can now elevate the value of my products and sell them at higher prices to those who appreciate the art.
“Hopefully, I can create more products for events and celebrations to bring joy to more people,” she said.
Children also joined in the fun, adding a touch of playfulness to the otherwise delicate craft.
Engineer Nur Hakimah Hani Haslan, 32, said her daughter Nur Sophea Hani Saiful Fahmi, four, was captivated by the colours and shapes.
“My daughter loves cooking and art, so this was a perfect match.
“The process of injecting little petals impressed her so much that she now wants to make these desserts for her friends and teachers.
“I hope children can pick up culinary skills like this and carry the knowledge with them through life,” said Nur Hakimah.
Retired banker Zainol Abdul Rahman, the only man in the group, also attended the workshop with his friends from the Senior Citizens Activity Centre.
“I have seen flower jelly sold in the market and was always curious about how they were made.
“I got my answers today, and it was beyond my expectations.
“While it looks easy, it’s actually hard to master.
“My family will be so surprised when I serve them a blooming flower jelly soon,” said the 62-year-old with a laugh.
The workshop was part of the MBPP’s initiative to empower communities, especially the underprivileged, with creative ways to enhance their livelihoods.
