Zainon Zaini Enterprise is revitalising traditional kuih recipes, adapting to modern demands while maintaining quality and customer loyalty.
Small business success in digital age
In today’s world of instant access to everything, it is imperative for traders — especially small ones — to leverage technology to launch and grow their product lines.
Using technology to introduce and market products offers numerous advantages.
Digital marketing, for instance, is often more economical than traditional techniques, making it one of the most cost-effective forms of advertising.
With limited budgets, small traders can effectively reach their target audience through online ads, email marketing, and social media.
Online platforms also enable small business owners to connect with a worldwide audience, significantly expanding their market beyond their local vicinity.
In line with this opportunity, the Sarawak government, led by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, is committed to establishing a digital economy.
Sarawak Pay, an electronic wallet application, was introduced by the state government in November 2017 with the aim of leading the digital economy and society by 2030.
Responding to the government’s call
Zainon Zaini, a small-scale entrepreneur, said that all traders, regardless of size, should stay up-to-date with advancing times and various technological tools.
“As a small business owner, the digital economy offers me and other small traders numerous advantages, enabling us to grow and compete with larger companies.
“Online marketing tools and social media allow us to cost-effectively promote products and services, reaching targeted audiences.
“Furthermore, these tools enhance the online shopping experience for customers with multiple payment methods, user-friendly navigation, and quick delivery, ultimately boosting client satisfaction and loyalty.
“In line with the increasing usage of Sarawak Pay among locals, I offer my clients cashless payment services.
“Customers can pay through transfers or by scanning QR codes, in addition to using Sarawak Pay.
“Digital payment methods make transactions faster, more secure, and enhance cash flow and client convenience,” said Zainon, who owns a company producing and selling traditional Sarawak kuih.
The owner of Zainon Zaini Enterprise elaborated that small business owners today are fortunate to have easy and quick access to various digital tools and platforms for accounting, marketing, business management, and other areas, often at lower costs compared to traditional methods.
She mentioned that these tools enable her to streamline her business operations, such as deciding whether to cut, increase, halt, or launch new products in the market by gathering relevant information linked to her products. This also helps her gauge public response to her goods.
She emphasised that such data is crucial for ensuring that her small business can compete with larger players in the industry and remain relevant.
“In addition, I attended several workshops and seminars to expand my understanding of the corporate world within the digital economy.
“Currently, I am participating in a six-month mentoring programme for startup entrepreneurs at Institut Keusahawanan Negara (INSKEN), where we receive personalised guidance from INSKEN’s industry coach and BisKaunselor.
“This programme has exposed me to current business management trends and challenges, providing valuable insights into assessing business risks.
“I feel fortunate to be part of this programme as I have learned many new things. Additionally, INSKEN will visit me every month to monitor my progress,” she said.
Zainor’s edram
Speaking about her products, the 37-year-old businesswoman said that kuih edram, also known as kuih peneram, is her company’s best-selling item. It is a traditional cake made using gula apong and homemade rice flour.
According to her, all the kuih she sells use recipes handed down from her late parents since 2005.
She emphasised that she only uses premium raw materials to ensure that her goods are delicious, fresh, and of the finest quality.
Reflecting on her journey, this resident of Kampung Rampangi Skim said that the rising cost of living inspired her to revive her late mother’s business, which used to manufacture and distribute traditional kuih.
“The establishment of Zainon Zaini Enterprise can also be credited to the resolute support of my customers for kuih edram orders.
“Initially starting with just the original kuih edram, I now have six products in the market, including kuih edram bijan, kuih rempeyek, kuih jala, kuih cap, and kuih koyong, priced from RM4.50 to RM12 per packet.
“I have also received orders for several Gawai events, thanks to the unwavering support of my customers,” she said.
For those who want to taste the delectable kuih edram made by Zainon Zaini Enterprise, you can find it at Kedai Runcit Abdul Wahet, Masjid Bahagian Kuching, and Butik Zalea Amin in Metrocity, Jalan Matang.
If you prefer your edram hot and freshly fried, visit Zainon’s cottage in Kampung Rampangi Skim, open Monday to Friday from 10am to 10pm, or her stall in Bandar Baru Semariang (opposite Astana Kek near the Pasar Tani), operating weekends from 10am to 6pm.
For orders, the public can contact Zainon at 018-9767834.
Let’s support our local products!
