Jajan: A Nostalgic Taste of Malaysian Childhood 🍭

If you grew up in Malaysia, you probably have fond memories of jajan. These simple, inexpensive snacks brought so much joy to our childhood days. Whether you got them from a sundry shop, a school canteen, or even a street vendor, these treats were a big part of growing up Malaysian. Among all the favourites, gem biscuits hold a special place in many hearts.

Gem Biscuits: Tiny, Colourful Treasures

Who could forget gem biscuits? These tiny biscuits topped with brightly coloured sugary icing were the highlight of many childhoods. The biscuits themselves are plain and slightly sweet, acting as the perfect base for the vibrant icing. The icing came in pastel shades of pink, yellow, green and white, making them a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Everyone had their way of eating them. Some started with the icing, some saved it for last, and some nibbled biscuit and icing together. No matter how you enjoyed them, gem biscuits remain a timeless classic.

Other Jajan Favourites

While gem biscuits were iconic, there were plenty of other treats that Malaysians loved. Here are some snacks that made childhood extra special:

1. Mamee Monster

   Crunchy noodles straight out of the packet with seasoning added for that extra savoury kick. The fun of smashing the packet and mixing the seasoning made it even more exciting.

   
   

2. Sumi Jelly

   These colourful fruity jellies in tiny plastic cups were a huge hit. The challenge was getting them out of the cup without spilling, but the sweet chewy treat was worth the effort.

   
   

3. Haw Flakes

   Thin, sweet discs made from hawthorn fruit were not just snacks but also a playful pretend currency for kids.

   
   

4. Sugus and Kopiko

   Sugus chewy fruit sweets were loved for their fruity flavours, while Kopiko coffee candy gave kids a small taste of adulthood.

   
   

5. White Rabbit Candy (Non-Halal)

   These creamy, chewy sweets wrapped in edible rice paper were a novelty, but it is important to note that they are non-halal, as they contain non-permissible ingredients for Muslims.

   
   

6. Choki Choki

   Chocolate in a tube was every child’s dream. Squeezing out the sweet gooey chocolate directly into your mouth was both fun and delicious.

   
   

7. Gula-Gula Udang

   These candies with a shrimp picture on the wrapper are another nostalgic treat. Inside, the candy is wrapped in an edible paper layer that melts in your mouth. The sweet, slightly creamy flavour made them a favourite for many.

   
   

Why Jajan Holds a Special Place in Malaysian Hearts

Jajan is not just about the snacks; it is about the memories tied to them. It reminds us of rushing to the sundry shop with a few coins, sharing sweets with friends during school breaks, and the pure joy of a simple treat.

For expats in Malaysia, exploring these childhood snacks is a fun way to connect with local culture. Many of these treats are still available in sundry shops and supermarkets, making it easy to take a nostalgic trip down memory lane.

At Malaysian Link, we love sharing the quirky and heartwarming aspects of Malaysian life. Whether it is enjoying gem biscuits or squeezing out a Choki Choki, these snacks are a delightful way to understand the culture.

Why not give them a try and see which ones become your favourites? If you need help finding these local gems, let us know.

Happy snacking!

📷: Hapiz Rosli