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Malaysian Heritage Food (Mhf): A Review of Younger Generation's Acceptance of Kuih Kapit
Last modified: 2023-10-23
Abstract
Modernization in traditional cuisine refers to the process of adapting or altering traditional culinary practices, recipes, and ingredients to fit contemporary tastes, lifestyles, and technological advancements. This can happen for various reasons, including globalization, changing consumer preferences, and the availability of new ingredients and cooking techniques. One of the traditional sweet snacks from Malaysia's historical cuisines is Kuih Kapit. Due to technological advancement, trends and localization, Kuih Kapit is one of the foods that has been modernized by Malaysian society. The problem emerges when this traditional cuisine is modernized by including foreign products and employing machinery from the outside world. This can lead to misunderstandings, a loss of authenticity, and in some cases, make it impossible for the younger generation to continue this legacy cuisine for future generations. The purpose of this study was to examine the factors that influence the acceptance of millennial generation to consume traditional food (Kuih Kapit) in Klang Valley, Malaysia. A qualitative approach was used to carry out the study. The study involved 10 informants from the younger generation who were interviewed. The findings show that the younger generation prefers the modernized version of Kuih Kapit due to its allure and enhanced possibilities. To attract more younger generation consumers, the selling points for Kuih Kapit should offer reasonable prices. The study also revealed that, despite their fascination with the updated Kuih Kapit, younger generations are willing to invest time in learning about and suggesting ways to preserve local customs.
Keywords
Kuih Kapit, Heritage, Malaysian Cuisine, Modernization, Young Generation