From a pandemic hobby to a thriving business, Sisbake’s founder navigates intense Hari Raya demand with early mornings and family support

PETALING JAYA: What began as a small experiment in a home kitchen at the age of 20 has grown into a thriving festive business for Siow Li Ling, now 25, founder of Sisbake.

The brand began organically during the pandemic in 2021, when she was still a university student exploring something new with her sister.

What started as a casual baking hobby gradually gained traction, eventually turning into a full-time venture after her graduation.

Today, she produces premium butter cookies in a variety of flavours, including classic, cocoa, coffee and matcha.

For many small businesses, the Hari Raya season marks a period of heightened activity.

For Sisbake, however, it is a time of intense production, long hours and meaningful growth.

“Hari Raya is one of our peak seasons. Customers are not just buying for themselves, but also for gifting to family, friends and corporate clients,” Li Ling said.

This year presented a unique challenge.

With Hari Raya falling shortly after Chinese New Year, the business had to navigate back-to-back festive demand with minimal downtime.

“We had to transition almost immediately from one major production cycle into another. It required careful planning in terms of manpower, inventory and logistics.”

The surge in demand is reflected in the numbers.

During the Raya period alone, the bakery fulfilled more than 700 orders, many of them bulk purchases for gifting and corporate distribution.

The compressed timeline meant orders poured in within a short window, placing additional pressure on operations.

To keep up, Li Ling’s days during peak season begin as early as 4am and often stretch late into the evening.

Mornings are dedicated to baking and fulfilling orders, while afternoons and nights are spent preparing for the next day’s production.

Beyond baking, she also manages customer service, responding to enquiries and coordinating orders.

“It’s definitely long and physically demanding days.”

While Sisbake is run full-time by Li Ling, she is supported by her parents, sister and two additional staff who assist during high-demand periods.

“Having that support system makes a big difference, especially during intense seasons.”

Since its inception, the Hari Raya period has played a pivotal role in the brand’s growth.

Beyond immediate sales, it attracts new customers, many of whom return for other occasions throughout the year.

“It’s not just about short-term sales, but also long-term brand growth and awareness.”

Changing consumer preferences have also shaped the business.

This year, Li Ling observed a stronger emphasis on presentation, with customers seeking festive, gift-ready packaging alongside high-quality products.

Bulk and corporate orders have also become more prominent, reflecting a growing trend in organised gifting.

“Customers today are more selective. They want both good quality and something that looks presentable.”

Despite the rewards, running a home-based business during the festive rush comes with challenges.

Limited space and manpower remain key constraints, particularly when balancing high production volumes with quality control.

Yet Li Ling finds fulfilment in knowing her products are part of customers’ celebrations.

“When I receive photos or feedback from customers sharing our cookies during Raya, it reminds me that we’re part of their special moments.

“That makes all the hard work worth it.”

Social media has also been crucial in expanding the business’ reach, enabling it to serve customers across Malaysia through courier deliveries.

The increased visibility has been especially impactful during festive periods, when demand for giftable treats peaks.

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Li Ling offers simple but practical advice.

“It’s never too late to start. What matters most is consistency, showing up every day, improving your skills and staying committed, even when things feel slow in the beginning.”

 The Sun Malaysia