From Sambal to Hollywood Ensemble, These 6 Kelantanese Entrepreneurs Prove Success Knows No Borders

Oftentimes, this East Coast state is overshadowed by stereotypes. But what many may overlook is that Kelantan has birthed some truly successful entrepreneurs.

Here’s a look at some Kelantanese entrepreneurs who have made names for themselves while staying true to their Kelate roots.

1. Khairul Aming

It’s safe to say that every Malaysian knows Khairul Aming. This content creator from Kota Bharu shot to fame with his popular 30 Hari 30 Resepi series during Ramadan.

But Khairul Aming is more than just a content creator, he’s also a successful entrepreneur. His Sambal Nyet, launched in 2021, was an instant hit, raking in around RM8.6 million in its first year alone. More recently, his Dendeng Nyet Berapi has also been generating a lot of buzz.

Beyond business, Khairul Aming is known for his generosity and leadership. During Raya this year, he made headlines for treating his 100 staff to new clothes, groceries, a buka puasa feast at a hotel, and duit raya.

2. Neelofa

Neelofa is a household name in Malaysia. Her rise to fame began when she won the local teen beauty contest Dewi Remaja in 2010. Since then, she has appeared in multiple local films and TV series such as Pilot Cafe, Suri Hati Mr. Pilot, and more. She also hosted popular television programs like MeleTOP and Nona before her departure in 2019.

Today, Neelofa is a proud business owner. Her brand Naelofar Hijab is a well-known name in Malaysia’s modest wear scene, offering hijabs, prayerwear, and more. Her other ventures include Nunha, another modest wear brand, and Nilofa Plus, which focuses on health and beauty products.

3. Dr Hannan Yusof

You may have heard of Hannan Medispa, but have you heard of its founder, Dr. Hannan Yusof?

Born in Pasir Puteh, Kelantan, Dr. Hannan is a medical doctor in training who launched the well-known medispa in 2012. The clinic focuses on cosmetic dermatology, body slimming, and anti-aging treatments. In 2024, he was appointed Adjunct Professor at the Faculty of Hospitality, Tourism and Wellbeing (FHPK), Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK).

4. Dato’ Steven Sim (Secret Recipe)

Secret Recipe is a brand familiar to all Malaysians. But not many know the man behind it.

Born in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Dato’ Steven Sim opened the first Secret Recipe outlet in 1997 with his three nephews in SS2. At the time, there were few places serving coffee and cakes. The business took off after Secret Recipe won the Best Cheesecake award at the Kuala Lumpur Cakes Competition in 1998.

From humble beginnings, Secret Recipe has grown to over 400 outlets across the Asia Pacific, including in Thailand, Brunei, Singapore, and the Maldives.

5. Zang Toi

Born and raised in Kuala Krai, Zang Toi is a renowned fashion designer who has built a global empire over the past 30 years. He has dressed some of Hollywood’s brightest stars, including Elizabeth Taylor, Patti LaBelle, and Eartha Kitt. His clientele also includes royalty, such as Saudi Princess Haifa Bandar Al Saud.

Despite living in the U.S. since he was 20, Zang often references his Malaysian roots in his designs and shows. His first major show, The Glorious Garden, incorporated elements of Malaysian culture.

6. Dato’ Sri Vida

She may be a multimillionaire today, with ventures in cosmetics, wellness products, and more, but Dato’ Vida came from humble beginnings. After losing her father at a young age, she sold food to support her family while her mother worked as a rubber tapper.