Ah, the comforting taste of childhood snacks and drinks, filling our hearts and pantries with memories. But here’s a twist: many of those cherished flavours originated from beyond Malaysian borders! Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore the surprising international origins of the treats we’ve always considered our own. Get ready for a delightful revelation as we uncover the stories behind these Malaysian favourite brands.
Sugus
One of Malaysia’s most beloved sweet brands, Sugus, has long been a favourite at birthday parties, special occasions, and impulsive convenience store visits. These chewy, fruit-flavoured delights were the Starburst of Malaysian favourite brands. But did you know that Sugus was actually created in 1931 by a Swiss chocolate company? While Malaysians savour flavours like blackcurrant, orange, and strawberry, the original Swiss lineup includes lemon, pineapple, and cherry. Interestingly, the brand’s Chinese name directly translates to “Swiss candy,” a nod to its true origins.
F&N
Among the most startling revelations is that the beloved Ice Cream Soda and other fizzy favourites are the creations of F&N, a Singaporean company. Founded in 1883 as the Singapore and Straits Aerated Water Company, F&N’s portfolio expanded to include Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and Schweppes.Today, F&N’s beverages, especially Ice Cream Soda and F&N Orange, are quintessential refreshments in Malaysia, perfect for quenching thirst on a scorching day, solidifying their place among Malaysian favourite brands.
Ayam Brand
The name “Ayam” (Malay for chicken) might lead you to believe this brand is purely Malaysian. However, Ayam Brand’s roots are entwined with colonial history. Established in 1892 in Singapore, then part of colonial Malaya, Ayam Brand was the brainchild of Alfred Clouet. He aimed to enhance the accessibility of canned goods, and he chose a Gallic rooster as the brand’s logo to honour his French heritage. The local populace soon began referring to these cans as “ayam brand,” and Clouet wisely adopted this name officially, cementing its legacy in the region and making it a significant part of Malaysian favourite brands.
Milo
Milo is as synonymous with Malaysian food culture as nasi lemak. This chocolate malt drink is a staple at breakfast tables, mamak stalls, and during sleepless nights. Yet, Milo’s origins lie in Australia. Created by Nestlé chemist Thomas Mayne in the 1930s, Milo was conceived as a nutritious liquid food, providing essential proteins and minerals. Essentially, Milo was the Soylent of its time. Its enduring recipe of milk powder, malted barley, cocoa, and sugar has remained largely unchanged, and its reputation as an energy-boosting drink persists to this day, securing its spot among Malaysian favourite brands.
Maggi
Maggi instant noodles and seasonings are ubiquitous in Malaysian kitchens, forming the cornerstone of quick and easy meals. However, the brand’s history is far from straightforward. Originating in Switzerland, Maggi has a controversial past linked to Nazi Germany. During World War II, Maggi’s production was heavily aligned with the Wehrmacht, the armed forces of Nazi Germany. Despite these dark associations, the brand distanced itself from this history and was acquired by Nestlé in 1947. Today, Maggi has transformed into a global culinary staple, but its eerie past remains a sobering reminder, making it one of the most intriguing Malaysian favourite brands.
Source: here
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