Single Mother and Cancer Survivor Builds Thriving Gluten‑Free Biscuit Business

KUALA LUMPUR, March 25 — In a small kitchen in Kuala Lumpur, a remarkable story of resilience and entrepreneurship is taking shape. Maizatul Akmar Rizah Mazlan, better known as Izzah, a single mother and cancer survivor, has built a thriving gluten‑free biscuit business that is winning the hearts of Malaysians.

Diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2018, Izzah faced a life-changing battle that required her to adapt her diet and lifestyle. Finding suitable snacks that were both healthy and safe during treatment proved difficult. Instead of giving up, she began experimenting in her kitchen, determined to create something delicious yet gluten-free.

“During my treatment, I couldn’t eat regular biscuits. That’s when I thought, why not make my own?” she recalls. Countless trials later, she perfected recipes that were light, tasty, and suitable for people with dietary restrictions.

What began as a personal solution soon transformed into a business. Today, Izzah Recipe offers a wide range of gluten-free biscuits, including flavours like suji, peanut, coconut, and triple chocolate. She has also expanded into other health-conscious baked goods, such as oat-based snacks and traditional treats like murukku.

Her products are now distributed across Malaysia through agents and outlets, with prices ranging from RM10 to RM35 per pack, making them accessible to a growing customer base. The business, run from a dedicated small kitchen in Kuala Lumpur, has become a symbol of perseverance and innovation.

Izzah’s journey has not been easy. As a single mother, she has juggled raising two children, managing household expenses, and now running a business. “There were times I wondered if I could do it all, but I told myself I had to keep going for my kids and for my future,” she said.

Her determination has not gone unnoticed. In 2023, she was named Icon Usahawan Asnaf, an award recognising inspiring entrepreneurs who have overcome personal hardship to create meaningful businesses. Her story is now inspiring others — from young entrepreneurs to those navigating their own health struggles.

Beyond her personal triumph, Izzah’s biscuits cater to a growing demand for health-conscious snacks in Malaysia. With more people seeking gluten-free and natural alternatives, her products provide a tasty solution without compromising on quality or flavor.

For Izzah, the success of her business is about more than just sales. “Every pack I sell, every customer who enjoys my biscuits, reminds me that my journey has a purpose. It’s not just about me — it’s about giving hope to others,” she says.

Her story also highlights the power of innovation, resilience, and community support. Friends, family, and early customers played a critical role in helping her scale her business, proving that entrepreneurship often thrives through collaboration and word-of-mouth.

Today, Izzah Recipe continues to grow, offering Malaysians a taste of perseverance and creativity baked into every biscuit. From surviving cancer to building a successful business, Izzah embodies the spirit of courage and determination, proving that even the toughest challenges can be transformed into opportunities