Earning only a mere RM10 a day, Som Jamilah, affectionately known as Kak Milah has been selling traditional kuih for over 21 years at Kampung Batu Lima. Riding her tricycle out, Kak Milah would then spend her time holding an umbrella, waiting for customers to buy her kuih.
82yo M’sian woman rides her tricycle, selling traditional kuih!
According to local newspaper NST, the 82-year-old woman has been selling kuih since 2003, and it became her daily routine to wake up as early as 5am to prepare her ingredients. In order to make her famous tepung dalam and pulut sekaya pandan, she would first squeeze out coconut milk and cook her glutinous rice.
“After that, I would perform my dawn prayers and read the Quran, before finishing up the cooking at 7am”, she said.
Source: NST
However, as her age is catching up, Kak Milah shared that the quantity of her kuih has reduced to 40 pieces each. Selling it at only RM1 per piece, her kuih would usually sell out in an hour, right in front of SK Batu Lima. When asked why she is adamant in selling her kuih, she said that it was her way of passing time.
Except for Fridays, where she reserves the day focusing on Friday prayers, Kak Milah sells her kuih every day without fail. Despite only earning a RM10 profit, she shared that it was enough as she receives a monthly allowance from the Social Security Organisation (Socso) for one of her deceased children, amounting to RM229.
Source: Canva
“I use this as therapy for me. It makes me feel calm and happy when I see people enjoying my kuih”, she mentioned.
Blessed with 5 children, 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, Kak Milah has been encouraged by her children to stop working, but she refuses to do so as it helps keep her healthy. Asking when she intends to retire, the woman shared that as long as she is capable, she will continue to work.
Indeed, an inspiring woman, earning an honest living and taking care of her children. If you’re around the area, feel free to show her your support!
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Also read: M’sian makcik sells kuih muih in a pink wheelbarrow, public urged to support
