By, Amirah Mohd Anuar and Nilamprima Nurulamirah Aida Ramli
On a hot afternoon, when the sun feels relentless and the air grows heavy, even simple tasks can feel exhausting. The body slows down, concentration fades, and the desire for something that cools the body down becomes almost instinctive. For many Malaysians, relief does not come from elaborate desserts or expensive treats, but from a familiar bowl of cendol, cool, lightly sweet, and comforting. Recognising this shared experience, Cendol Batu 7 brings something refreshing directly through the community at its booth at Gombak Food Festival 3.0. In moments like these, food becomes more than nourishment, it becomes a small pause that offers refreshment and emotional comfort.
This experience is not uncommon. In a fast-paced society where meals are often rushed or eaten on the go, people increasingly seek food that offers both comfort and balance. Cendol Batu 7, Gombak can be an attraction for customers when aiming for appetizing desserts or merely a cooling snack. The stall offers a variety of cendol options including cendol biasa, cendol jagung, cendol pulut and cendol buah. Not only that, but they also serve hot food, making it a versatile choice for customers.
According to an Instagram page of Cendol Batu 7’s integrated marketing communication agency, (@by.kantaa, consumers are showing renewed interest in traditional and heritage foods that provide emotional connection while still fitting into the modern lifestyle. As global food trends shift rapidly, traditional desserts such as cendol continues to remain relevant by offering simplicity, cultural meaning, and accessibility.
Beyond its ingredients, cendol fits naturally into everyday Malaysian life. It is commonly enjoyed in open social spaces such as food stalls and community events. This accessibility allows students, staff, and visitors to enjoy it casually between activities. Compared to many modern desserts that are often heavy or overly sweet, cendol offers a lighter alternative that focuses on refreshment and balance, making it a suitable choice during daytime events.
Preference for cendol is further strengthened by its cultural significance. According to a 2023 article by the Malaysian Heritage Food Research Centre, traditional desserts play an important role in preserving cultural identity and strengthening social bonds. By featuring Cendol Batu 7 Gombak at the food festival, the event not only celebrates local flavours but also encourages cultural appreciation among younger generations, particularly university students who may be reconnecting with traditional foods. consuming familiar foods such as cendol that also provides a sense of connection to heritage while adapting to contemporary lifestyles.
This cultural value enhances emotional attachment, making cendol more than just a seasonal treat.
Confidence in traditional food choices is also supported by expert perspectives. Nutrition experts emphasise that moderation and simplicity in ingredients contribute to balanced eating habits according to the dietary guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health Malaysia in 2021. While cendol is not promoted as a health product, its straightforward ingredients and portion-based consumption make it a reasonable choice when enjoyed occasionally.
Cendol Batu 7 Gombak consumer’s feedback frequently describes cendol as refreshing, comforting, and emotionally satisfying, particularly in warm weather. According to a Google reviewer, Khairyatul, of Cendol Batu 7 Gombak (https://share.google/Gv2zXOeqbC6NPX85U), the cendol is described as being, “delicious and affordable,” making it a popular and enjoyable local dessert choice.
The natural colours and textures are simply appetising beyond words, as we can see from the photo.
The Cendol Batu 7 booth will stand out in the upcoming Gombak Food Festival 3.0 that will take place from 6 to 7 January 2025, 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m., in the Human Sciences Square, IIUM Gombak. The foodfest offers an opportunity for visitors to enjoy traditional Malaysian desserts in a lively yet familiar setting.***
(This advertorial is a part of assessment from a course, COMM 2312 Basic of Writing)
