How an old dodol tradition keeps neighbours close

Tan Siew Tong, a 75-year-old resident, cherishes the communal act of making dodol, a traditional sweet treat, alongside her neighbors. Once a simple teenage pastime in Kampung Kelubi, the tradition has evolved over the decades, but the heart of togetherness remains unchanged. Today, Tan assists fellow residents in stirring the thick mixture of dodol at the Taman Bemban Utama neighbourhood watch post, where people from diverse backgrounds join hands to work together.

The task, which can last up to eight hours, demands patience and considerable strength. Tan reminisces about the joy she derived from participating in these communal activities during her teenage years in Kampung Kelubi, where the family shed often served as a gathering spot for Malay neighbors. She expresses delight in seeing Indian residents also join in the dodol-making sessions, enriching the already-established community tradition.

Currently serving as a member of the Taman Bemban Utama neighbourhood women’s group since 2009, Tan is also responsible for packing the finished dodol for customers, who can purchase a large container for RM10 or a small one for RM3. The neighbourhood committee chairman, Ahmad Zaki Arshad, 60, explained that the dodol-making activity commenced on a modest scale around five years ago.

However, it has since expanded, with significant orders during Hari Raya and weddings. Approximately 10kg of wheat flour and 40 coconuts are required to produce over 50 containers of dodol. Despite the commercial aspect, the core appeal persists in the simple pleasure of preparing food together with neighbors from all walks of life, reminiscent of Tan's youthful experiences.