AT 59, Haziah Isa affectionately known as Kak Za proves that resilience, passion and determination can turn humble beginnings into a thriving business.
A single mother with an unyielding spirit, Haziah has carved a name for herself in the world of traditional Hari Raya cookies, delighting customers year after year with her homemade creations.
Speaking to Buletin Mutiara during a visit to her home in Bukit Mertajam today, Kak Za shared how her journey began not in a commercial kitchen, but from her own love for baking.
“I actually learned to make Raya cookies a long time ago. Back then, I only baked for my family.
“But in 2010, encouraged by friends, I decided to take it seriously and turn it into a business,” she recalled warmly.
Her turning point came when she joined a programme under the Women and Family Development Committee (JPWK), which required participants to produce festive cookies annually for public sale. What started as a small initiative soon blossomed into a steady and rewarding enterprise.
Today, Kak Za’s cookies are highly sought after not just during Hari Raya, but throughout the year.
Among her bestsellers is the ever-popular biskut makmur, a melt-in-your-mouth peanut-filled cookie dusted generously with icing sugar.
“Every year, there are agents who will take large quantities to resell. It’s always in high demand,” she said.
Close behind are her Almond London cookies that are rich in chocolate-coated delights and her oat susu (snowy oat cookies), both favourites among customers for festive celebrations and everyday indulgence alike.
Another standout is her Mazola cookies, a non-seasonal treat that customers order all year round.
“These cookies aren’t just for Hari Raya.
“People order them for weddings, kenduri (feasts), and even as hantaran (wedding gifts),” she explained.
During the fasting month, however, her focus shifts entirely to fulfilling the surge in festive orders. Working tirelessly from her home kitchen, Kak Za ensures every batch meets her standards of taste and quality.
Unlike many small-scale producers, she chooses not to sell her cookies in retail shops, a decision shaped by experience.
“I have tried that before, but there is a risk. If the cookies don’t sell, I incur losses.
“They only stay fresh for about three months. After that, the quality drops and the cost of making them is not cheap,” she explained.
Instead, Kak Za relies on a trusted network of agents to market her products. These agents distribute samples to their workplaces and communities, gathering orders before production begins.
“It works better this way. They help introduce my cookies to more people, and once customers like them, they will place orders. During festive seasons, the demand can be overwhelming but I’m grateful,” she explained.
Despite the growing demand, one thing remains unchanged, every single cookie is still handmade by Kak Za herself, right from her home.
Her story is one of perseverance and quiet success, a proof that with dedication and heart, even a home-based business can flourish.
For orders, the public can contact Kak Za at 018-256 8337.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud