Malaysia
Singapore
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The beauty of living in a multicultural country like Malaysia lies in the seamless blend of traditions across different races. From food and festivities to clothing, cultural exchange knows no bounds. A perfect example? This Indian family-run nian gao business in JB, thriving for 26 years.
Nian gao, or kuih bakul, is a sweet delicacy traditionally enjoyed during Chinese New Year. Though often linked to the Chinese community, Balamurali Bathumalay embraced the craft without hesitation, leading his family’s business since 1999.
The 50-year-old father of 3 is also the founder of NYCC Enterprise. Every year, he kicks off nian gao production a month before the festive season, working alongside his 50-person team of Malays, Indians, and Chinese — truly embodying the 1Malaysia spirit.
Outside of the season, he switches gears to his other job as a property agent.
Nian Gao JB, as the business is now known, started out of necessity. When the 1997 Asian financial crisis forced his employer’s company to close, Balamurali, who had just welcomed his eldest son, Raakesh, needed a way to support his family.
Inspired by his former employer, he learned the art of making nian gao and turned it into a thriving business.
When he first started, he gained massive support from the Chinese community, which gave him the opportunity to even bring Nian Gao JB to Singapore. Now, Balamulari’s business in Taman Johor Jaya is as successful as ever — selling up to 60K nian gao every time the festive season rolls around.
Balamurali’s son, Raakesh, has been eager to follow in his father’s footsteps since the age of 11. Even while working in Singapore, he returns to lend a hand, helping modernise the business by setting up social media accounts and a blog to boost its reach.
Nian Gao JB offers kuih bakul in 2 styles: the traditional banana leaf-wrapped (RM10 for 400g, RM20 for 800g) version and a plastic-wrapped (RM4 for 200g, RM8 for 400g, RM15 for 800g) alternative.
These sweet treats are still being sold until this year’s Chap Goh Mei (12 Feb). Contact them for more details!
Siblings who own Mellben, Uncle Leong, Melben & Kelly Jie Seafood not getting along? No such thing!
