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By Alan Teh Leam Seng

A trip to Penang is not complete without a visit to Ghee Hiang. Alan Teh Leam Seng wonders what babies have to do with the pastry shop

I had just settled down in my hotel room after a tiring three-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur when I received an SMS from my favourite aunt.

Having found out that I was in Penang, she wanted me to get her several boxes of Ghee Hiang biscuits for her and her friends.

I had heard so much about Ghee Hiang from my family and friends over the years but, until now, I had not known where to get these much sought after snacks.

Happily, an Internet search provided me with not one but five Ghee Hiang outlets scattered all over the island, from Beach Street to Sunshine Farlim. These boutique shops provide easy access for buyers to buy the products with relative ease.

I opted to go to the outlet in Macalister Road as it gave me a chance to drive along the streets in the island’s heritage zone. I always get a rush to see pre-war buildings with their immensely attractive facade. And driving in Penang is a breeze as long as you avoid the peak-hour traffic.

When I arrived at the shop, a group of six women made their exit, smiling despite arms heaving boxes and boxes of freshly baked tau sar pneah and mung bean biscuits.

“Business must be very good,” I thought.

BABY WELCOME
Just before I stepped into the shop, I noticed a couple of life-sized baby figures flanking the main signboard. Giving them only a fleeting thought, I walked into the main lobby and came face to face with an even larger baby!

My curiosity was aroused. A quick enquiry at the counter revealed that these are the company’s Legendary Babies. There are six of these icons, each representing one Ghee Hiang product.

In its 155-year history, Ghee Hiang has always been associated with babies. Apart from its popular Baby brand sesame oil, the company’s registered trademark is a distinct baby motif.

After buying the biscuits, I moved to the sitting area next to the sales counter, to learn more about the company’s history.

Founded in 1856, Ghee Hiang is said to be one of the oldest brand names in the country. It was started by a Fujian pastry baker who decided to settle down in Malaya.

He arrived in Penang and named his shop Ghee Hiang after an existing pastry shop in his hometown.

Until today, Ghee Hiang has made its mark as the first and original manufacturer of handmade traditional Chinese biscuits and pastries on the island.

BISCUITS AND MORE
Although it’s famous for its biscuits, Ghee Hiang also produces pure sesame oil and homemade coffee powder.

Malaysians, regardless of ethnic background, have been using the oil in their daily cooking as well as during confinement after giving birth.

Sesame oil is renowned for its therapeutic properties — it has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and is used in cancer and leukaemia treatments. It is said to restore the much needed warmth and qi energy in women who have just given birth.

Many believe that the oil strengthens the spine and helps the body recover quickly after pregnancy.

Ghee Hiang

Where: 216 Macalister Road, Penang
Opens daily from 9am to 9pm
Free delivery to certain areas within Penang
Call: 04-227 2222

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Posted by admin on November 24, 2011 under Travelogue.