Trends may come and go, but some flavours stay timeless. For over 130 years, Ayam Brand™ sardines and mackerel have been a staple in Malaysian kitchens. While we always love familiar favourites like kari mackerel and sambal sardin, there’s so much more you can do with a can. It’s time we explore canned fish as the base for something creative, fusion, and makan lain macam. Because this isn’t just your nenek’s sardines anymore, it’s your next best recipe waiting to happen with that segar tetap terasa goodness in every bite.

Beyond opening up a world of flavour and fun in the kitchen, did you know Ayam Brand™ sardines and mackerel also pack a powerful nutritional punch that often goes unnoticed? Here’s the real kicker. Ayam Brand™ sardines can have up to 7 times more Omega-3 than freshly cooked fish1. Not only that, Ayam Brand™ sardines and mackerels are also sustainably caught from cold seas and are naturally rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA*: two types of “healthy fats” that support key organs like the heart, brain, and eyes, which the body does not naturally produce.
“Malaysians have always had a soft spot for Ayam Brand™’s sardines and mackerels. They have long been a familiar favourite across generations. It’s comfort food that remind you of home, of family, and of simpler times,” says Teoh Wei Ling, Head of Marketing at Ayam Brand™.
Through Makan Lain Macam, we want to inspire Malaysians to have fun in the kitchen and see just how versatile these classics can be. While dishes like kari mackerel, sambal sardin, or even roti sardin gulung will always have a place at the table, there’s also something exciting about trying something different or new, knowing it’s still packed with nutritious goodness.”
Craving something bold and satisfying? With just a can (or two), Ayam Brand™ makes it easy to whip up dishes that feel familiar, taste refreshingly new, full of flavour and endless possibilities:
Sardine Mac & Cheese Balls, the Ultimate Fusion Comfort Food
Think crispy on the outside, melty on the inside. Sardine Mac & Cheese Balls combines cheesy macaroni, melty cheese, and mashed sardines into bite-sized delights. Shape into bite-sized balls, coat in breadcrumbs, and air-fry until golden. It’s a snackable crowd-pleaser that proves canned food can still surprise you.
Mackerel Masak Merah, with a Spicy Malaysian Kick
Spicy, rich, and oh-so-sedap. Mackerel Masak Merah is a bold twist on a Malaysian classic that comes together in minutes. Sauté Ayam Brand™’s Spicy Tomato Paste until fragrant, stir in a can of mackerel, and let the flavours simmer to perfection. Serve with buttery rice for a comforting, flavour-packed meal that tastes like home, with a little heat.
Your next favourite dish might just be a can away. Because Makan Lain Macam isn’t about reinventing the wheel, but reimagining the meals we already know and love, and having fun while making it!
Ayam Brand™ ‘s sardine and mackerel are available in four sizes (155g, 230g, 300g, 425g). For a limited time only, Ayam Brand™ is offering a Buy 2 Sardines or Mackerels (425g) and Get 1 Free Ayam Brand™ Fried Chilli Mackerel (155g), available at selected stores.
What better way to stock up and start experimenting in the kitchen? Check out the full range of easy, fusion-friendly recipes at www.ayambrand.com.my/recipes. Whether you’re a student, a parent, or just someone tired of the same old dinner routine, these fusion recipes are here for you to Makan Lain Macam. Follow @ayambrandmy on Instagram and Ayam Brand Malaysia on Facebook for fresh ideas, cooking tips, and more.