By Wilfred Pilo
Long before the clock strikes noon, the sweet aroma of pandan and coconut cream fills the air at Sweet Memories Cafe in Batu Kawah, where customers patiently queue for freshly made mini pandan kuih prepared by 48-year-old pastry enthusiast Nina Chin.
For many regulars, the bite-sized treats have become more than just a snack. Made fresh on the spot using traditional brass moulds, Nina’s mini pandan kuih has earned a loyal following among locals who appreciate its soft texture, fragrant aroma, and rich coconut filling.
The mother of two, who prefers to be known simply as Nina, never imagined that a skill she taught herself would one day grow into a business of her own.
Before opening her stall more than a year ago, Nina spent five years helping at her husband’s food stall next door, where she gradually picked up culinary skills and developed ideas that would later inspire her own venture.
Although family members and customers encouraged her to turn her passion for traditional kuih-making into a business, perfecting her recipe proved to be a challenging journey.
“It took me several months of trial and error before I found the taste and texture I was looking for. At first, the kuih tasted more like pancakes,” she said.
Rather than giving up, Nina continued refining her recipe until she achieved the signature mini pandan kuih that has since become a favourite among her customers.
Her day begins early each morning as she prepares fresh pandan batter and creamy coconut filling, ensuring every batch is cooked on the spot for maximum freshness.
Besides operating at Sweet Memories Cafe, Nina also sells her popular mini pandan kuih at the Petanak evening market from 6pm onwards, except on Tuesdays.
Despite the long hours and demanding routine, she said the overwhelming support from customers has made every effort worthwhile.
For Nina, every mini pandan kuih lifted fresh from the brass mould represents more than just a sweet treat. It reflects years of patience, perseverance and a passion that has grown from humble beginnings into a delicacy loved by many in Kuching.
In addition to her signature mini pandan kuih, Nina also prepares and sells apam balik (peanut pancakes) at her stall.
Her stall is located at Sweet Memories Cafe, Ensing Timur Lorong 6, and operates daily from 9am to 1.30pm.
Customers wishing to place orders or make enquiries can contact Nina at 011-1065 3168.
