KUALA LUMPUR: A swirl of embroidered kebaya, the aroma of glutinous rice and sweet bean paste, and the rhythmic pressing of wooden moulds set the scene as 138 women gathered to make history – and angku kuih – together.
The “Kakatoo – Most Participants Wearing Kebaya in an Angku Kuih-Making Workshop” yesterday was more than a record-breaking attempt recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records.
It was a living portrait of Malaysia’s multiracial tapestry, stitched together in lace and flour-dusted hands.
Among the participants was Fizzy Zakaria, who arrived with her 15-year-old daughter, A’isyah Abdullah, determined to turn the day into a lesson in heritage.
“We are happy and excited to be invited for this event,” she said.
“This is Malaysia. I’m Malay, but we celebrate Chinese New Year and other celebrations, because it’s Malaysia. We do everything together.”
For Fizzy, the workshop was not just about mastering the art of shaping angku kuih, the traditional Peranakan pastry often associated with prosperity and blessings, but about passing something deeper to the next generation.
“This is heritage. This is something I educate my children about.
“I brought my 15-year-old here today because I want her to learn. Of course they learn in school, but it’s not as in depth,” she smiled as her daughter examined the mould and asked questions.
“I’m glad she has been asking me questions. I take it as a learning moment for her.”
Fizzy’s own childhood, shaped by multicultural bonds, has made her especially attuned to such moments.
“My godparents are Chinese. We celebrate Christmas, Deepavali – everything. This is why I feel drawn to explore every culture we have in this country.”
Though she has eaten angku kuih countless times, this was her first attempt at making it.
“Before coming here, I watched some tutorials on TikTok and I am now ready!
“And today we all get to put on our kebaya,” she said.
For A’isyah, the experience was eye-opening.
“I learn about culture and how we need to do things together. We have different races – Chinese, Indian, Malay.
“All cultures can be seen together here today. So this is a new learning experience for me and I love it,” she said.
Across the table, business adviser Agnes Manunmani was adjusting the delicate sleeves of her kebaya – a first for her.
“This is the first time I’m wearing a full set of kebaya like this. Usually my favourite is a baju kurung.
“And kuih angku is a favourite of mine. That’s why I’m here, to experience it myself,” she said.
She described Malaysians as inherently vibrant.
“As a Malaysian, I always think how we are a ‘colourful’ bunch of people. We are multiracial and multicultural – and we are foodies,” she added.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry’s secretary-general Datuk Shaharuddin Abu Sohot said the Malaysia Book of Records recognition added value in terms of publicity and credibility.
“It helps promote Malaysia as a destination rich in unique culture and supports our strategy to highlight tourism narratives based on authenticity and real experiences,” he said in his speech.
He noted that the kebaya and angku kuih symbolise Malaysia’s intangible heritage and plural identity.
The recognition of the kebaya by Unesco and the symbolic value of angku kuih as a representation of prosperity make the pairing especially relevant in strengthening the nation’s cultural tourism narrative.
“This programme is aligned with the ministry’s aspiration to strengthen culture- and heritage-based tourism.
“It celebrates the uniqueness of Peranakan Baba and Nyonya heritage while positioning cultural elements as high-impact tourism products capable of attracting domestic and international visitors,” he said.
More importantly, Shaharuddin said, such initiatives allow younger generations to experience heritage first-hand.
“The message is clear – culture and heritage are national assets.
“By preserving and promoting them creatively, we not only attract tourists but also nurture pride and identity among Malaysians,” he added.
