Sabahan artiste's 'pinjaram' selling like a hot cakes

 By Olivia Miwil - July 3, 2021 @ 4:26pm

Local artiste Clarice John Matha selling local delicacies "Penjaram". - NSTP/Olivia Miwil

PENAMPANG: The singer of the popular dusun song "Adaa" finds niche in selling a local delicacy called "pinjaram" during the current movement control order.

Clarice John Matha, 43, said it began early last year when she posted a menu of pinjaram on a Facebook post and people enquired whether they could buy from her.

"During that time, I just cooked for my family members and shared them on social media.

"But, I never thought that many people would want to buy from me and the number of orders has been increasing," said the mother of four.

With the promotion on social media and word-of-mouth, Clarice spends hours in the kitchen at home almost everyday to prepare at least 200 pieces of pinjaram, which are booked one day in advance.

Although the sweet fried cake made of rice flour is a traditional kuih of the Bajau people, the delicacy has become well known among most Sabahans.

Usually available in original, pandan and brown sugar flavours, Clarice's pinjaram are also improvised using durian and yam flavors.

Selling at RM15 a set for 30 pieces, Clarice said the business was able to supplement her income during this Covid-19 pandemic.

"It is undeniable that the creative industry would be affected during this pandemic although I had just recently completed my shooting for a movie.

"This pinjaram business will serve as a good financial backup as we never know how long this Covid-19 situation will go on," said the singer who has been in the industry since 2004.