7. Kueh and the Unlikely Dutch Affair

Kueh defies classification. Even kueh experts can't land on a definition. Perhaps that's because kueh has influences from around the world, notably from European colonisers.

After the invasion of Melaka by the Portuguese armada, much of South East Asia faced the firm grip of colonialism. By the 17th Century, the Dutch VOC empire had invaded parts of Indonesia in a violent pursuit to control spice production. But the Malay rulers would soon learn that the enemy of my enemy is my friend.

The kueh of today is a reflection of this colonial past. Kueh-master Christopher Tan (@thewayofkueh) shares some of the most fascinating stories of kueh you will ever hear. He connects the wide-world of South East Asian kuehs with traditions from the Netherlands, Turkey and even the US!

We also hear from Noor Azura, owner of Kuih Keria Antarabangsa. She shares her inspiring story of how one kuih has changed the fortunes of her entire family.

Resources and References

The Way of Kueh (2019), Christopher Tan

Nerdbaker: Extraordinary Recipes, Stories & Baking Adventures from a True Oven Geek Paperback (2015), Christopher Tan

Nerdbaker 2: Tales of the Yeast Indies (2024), Christopher Tan

A History of Malaysia (2016), Barbara Watson Andaya, Leonard Y. Andaya

Merchant Kings - When Companies Ruled the World 1600-1900 (2010), Stephen R Bown

The Batavia Massacre: The Tragic End to a Century of Cooperation (2019), Kimberley Wilhelmina Wells

The Dutch East India Company - BBC Sounds

Kuih Keria Antarabangsa, No.29-1 Jalan Kristal Merah 2, Taman Limbongan Jaya, Limbongan, Malacca City, Malaysia

Credits

Hosted by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson

Produced by Dr Noby Leong and Philip Gibson

Sound Design by Jack Barr

English Dub by Anindya Kenyo Larasti

Satay? Okay! is produced by Kopi Productions Limited