The termbandung means "pairs",[2] whilesirap means "syrup"[3] andair means "water".[4] in theMalay andIndonesian languages, and the sirap refers to the rose-flavoured base syrup. More broadly,bandung refers to anything that is mixed from other ingredients or comes in pairs, such as the termrumah berbandung to refer to asemi-detached house, or "mee bandung" which refers to a noodle dish.[5] The name has no connection to the city ofBandung in Indonesia, but a variant of the drink can be found there as "soda gembira".[6][7]
Originating out of Singapore in the early 20th century during its time as an important British colonialentrepôt,[1]Bandung is a favourite beverage especially among theSingaporean Malay community and subsequently theMalay communities of Southeast Asia. It is usually served duringIftar inRamadan month or wedding receptions with other foods such asnasi beriani orrendang. Modern innovations include addinggrass jelly orsoda water and are served asstreet food especially at night markets.
The soda water variant may be more commonly known asSoda gembira by Indonesians, although it has a distinct taste toBandung due to the addition of a carbonated soft drink, such asFanta. It may be bought pre-mixed or made at home.[8] In Malaysia, the drink is usually served with grass jelly (bandung cincau) which is sometimes mixed withlychee puree (bandung cincau laici) orbasil seed/chia seed (bandung selasih).[9]
Catering to local tastes and culinary traditions, Singapore'sMcDonald's often releases desserts inspired by the drink's taste in the country, including Bandung-flavouredMcFlurry,sundae, andsoft serve.[10]
^Md Said, Rosalinda (30 March 2024)."Sirap bandung cincau selasih" [Grass jelly bandung syrup with basil/chia seed].Utusan Malaysia (in Malay). Retrieved17 November 2024.
