The cake, made using his mother’s recipe, is grilled over coconut husks and charcoal to produce its signature taste and authentic aroma.

Zaidi, 57, said he is grateful that his savings from serving with the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) from 2007 to 2016 have allowed him to return to his hometown and run Makwe’ Kuih Bakar, which has been operating for nearly six years.

He runs the business with his wife Nur Aisha Lexty, 51.

“My mother only took orders from surau, mosques, villagers, and for feasts, but it was never sold commercially. After retiring from the sports industry, I realised that authentic kuih bakar, prepared using traditional methods, is now hard to find,” he told Bernama.

Zaidi said coconut milk and high-quality eggs are important for achieving a rich taste, as well as proper fire-control techniques while grilling. He has also obtained halal certification to boost customer confidence in his product.

Despite the rising cost of ingredients, Zaidi remains committed to maintaining the same quality at an affordable price of RM9 per piece. He also offers savoury kuih bakar with meat at RM10 per piece.

“I sell nearly 100 pieces daily, especially as the weekend approaches. We have regular customers placing orders from Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Melaka and Johor,” he said.

In addition, Makwe’ Kuih Bakar also sells other traditional snacks such as kuih bahulu, pineapple tarts, semperit (classic cookies), and coconut kuih bangkit.

The father of six said although he has long left the sports industry, he is thankful that several former national athletes continue to support his business.

He added that every new venture requires courage and determination, even if it starts as a small business.

“It’s a joy to return to my hometown. Life here is more peaceful, and I can be close to my 81-year-old mother.

“Alhamdulillah, she is in good health and sometimes stops by to watch me and her grandchildren making kuih for business,” he said.