I’m glad I grew up as a kid in a multicultural country like Malaysia, because I was lucky enough to collect so many awesome childhood memories. Sure, we all remember LEGO and Barbie but the most nostalgia-inducing memories involve a Malaysian kid’s anticipation for school to be over, just so we could rush out and get our hands on any or all of these snacks! In conjunction with the upcoming Merdeka Day celebrations, I thought I’d take you back in time with a listicle of some of our favourite childhood goodies:
1) Ice Lollies
Growing up in a tropical country like Malaysia wasn’t easy as a kid. But what made the hot school day weather bearable would have to be these dirt-cheap but absolutely delicious and refreshing ice lollies.
2) Tora and Ding Dang
These two boxes used to do wonders for all us kids back in school. Each time we tear open the box, not only were we surprised with chocolate biscuit balls but a toy!
3) White Rabbit Candy Cream
This was like crack. We had to have them and couldn’t get enough of them. The fact that we could eat the inner wrapping paper made it more adventurous.
4) Colourful sweet and chewing gums of any kind
It doesn’t take much to please kids, and back in the day when we were all hungry for sugar, these babies satisfied our cravings just fine!
5) Mi-Mi Shrimp Snacks
I remember how I used to always get about three packets of this snack to last my whole bus ride home. Now as an adult, I’m still munching on these.
6) Haw Flakes
I don’t think a lot of kids particularly favoured these pink disks, but there were some of us who’d keep it in our pockets, just so we can snack during class.
7) Flavoured Jelly
Oh my goodness! These things, once you start with one, you just find it impossible to stop yourself from having more. Our fingers may have gotten sticky from them but all was worth it!