Decorated with tanjak-shaped paper cut-outs with a Jalur Gemilang motif and subtle adornments along its sides, D’Honey Bakery’s tanjak cakes have instilled a spirit of patriotism in its many customers.

Marketing officer Azua Nasiha Rosli told Bernama that the idea had come about in 2016 as a way of showcasing Malay traditional attire through baking, and to foster appreciation for the nation’s heritage among the younger generation.

“We want to nurture love for the nation through something close to the hearts of the community. By turning the tanjak, traditionally worn on the head, into a cake, we hoped to popularise it further,” she said.

The cakes, she added, are especially popular among students, who see them as a sweet way of celebrating Merdeka Day at school.

Other patriotic-themed treats such as Jalur Gemilang cupcakes, the Gemilang Cake, and the Merdeka Splash Cake have also been selling like hot cakes throughout August.

According to Azua, the bakery made headlines in 2023 when they created a cake featuring the animated character MechAmato holding the Jalur Gemilang, sparking the “Mecha-Merdeka” craze.

“Earlier in 2019, we received a special Merdeka order from a school to produce a giant cake made from 52 smaller cakes, prepared with their teachers and students,” she said.

The bakery, which has been operating for 12 years and has 40 staff in three branches, is planning to expand the patriotic concept to its pastry products, including flag-patterned breads and pizzas.

Meanwhile, customer Mashitah Abd Kadir, 37, complimented the tanjak cake, saying it was a creative blend of Malay heritage with enjoyable flavours.

“My children and I really like this cake; it is beautiful and unique. It not only enlivens the Merdeka celebration, it helps revive the spirit of patriotism with a touch of Malay tradition.”

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D’Honey Bakery
10, Jalan Kristal 5,
Taman Kristal,
86400 Parit Raja, Johor

Contact: 013-783 6210