Meet Wang Shijia, the creator behind Ang Ku Kueh Girl – turning the adorable, local icon into festive goodies for CSC’s Lunar New Year Bazaar. 

This year, Civil Service Club (CSC) is gearing up for a delicious collaboration with Ang Ku Kueh Girl and Friends to add a hint of sweetness to our annual Lunar New Year Bazaar. We caught up with Wang Shijia, the creator of Ang Ku Kueh Girl and Friends, for a quick delve into the collaboration. 

Bringing Ang Ku Kueh Girl to life

Previously a vice-president of investment and head of data analytics at a global real asset manager and developer, Shijia had a vision to create a cultural icon that could represent Singapore. She took inspiration from the heritage pastry, ang ku kueh (red tortoise snack), and developed Ang Ku Kueh Girl as a character that mixes tradition with playfulness. Shijia also wanted Ang Ku Kueh Girl to reflect her personal philosophy: “Life is sweet, especially after overcoming its bitter moments.” 

The homegrown, third-generation Singaporean then decided to leave her position to launch Ang Ku Kueh Girl™ as a brand in 2012. Since then, Shijia has continued to develop Ang Ku Kueh Girl into a playful yet versatile symbol of local heritage. 

What is the collaboration about? 

Shijia and her team designed a special set of 12 red packets, featuring all 12 Chinese zodiac animals reimagined through Ang Ku Kueh Girl. Her iconic ‘tortoise-shell’ bonnet is swapped with cheeky zodiac animal bonnets, each animal featured on its own piece. Ang Ku Kueh Girl holds a range of auspicious items, such as lucky pineapples, gold ingots, bright oranges and sweet persimmons, bringing special luck to the receiver.  

An earlier version of the red packet designs.  

On each piece, Ang Ku Kueh Girl is accompanied by two friends – her long-time tortoise friend on her bonnet and a unique horse companion. “It is a joyful sight to see Ang Ku Kueh Girl wearing twelve different zodiac costumes,” Shijia said. “This collaboration is actually the first time we’ve illustrated all 12 Chinese zodiac animals for red packets. We had to make sure each design was unique on its own.”

An earlier version of the red packet designs.  

The cherry on top of these red packets is the horse-related puns and idioms on each design, as Shijia’s personal way to send blessings for the new year. When all 12 pieces are put together, the designs link up perfectly while having unique, individual designs.

 Besides the adorable red packets, Shijia and Ang Ku Kueh Girl will be making an appearance at the CSC Lunar New Year Bazaar for an exciting storytelling and meet-and-greet session. Look forward to a lively storytelling session with Shijia, where she will share festive tales inspired by Lunar New Year traditions, followed by an interactive meet-and-greet by Ang Ku Kueh Girl! From snapping photos to exchanging cheerful New Year wishes, it’s a delightful opportunity for families and children to connect with these familiar local icons and soak in the festive atmosphere together. For more information on the event, find out more here.

What is in stores for Ang Ku Kueh Girl in 2026? 

For 2026, Shijia teases at upcoming collaborations with other brands and a brand-new friend for Ang Ku Kueh Girl. “This special companion is here to cheer you on and send heartfelt blessings, ensuring that everyone’s dedication and hard work will bear fruit. Stay tuned for the drop!” Shijia chimed in. 
On aspirations for Ang Ku Kueh Girl, Shijia also holds a deep hope that Ang Ku Kueh Girl and Friends will grow to be more than just an icon but a beacon embodying the spirit of our ancestors and a joyful representation and the must-have souvenir for every tourist that visits our sunny island. 

Keep updated with Ang Ku Kueh Girl and Friends on their social platforms!

Facebook: Ang Ku Kueh Girl

Instagram: @angkukuehgirl

Telegram: t.me/angkukuehgirl

Tiktok: @angkukuehgirl

Website: angkukuehgirl.com

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The CSC x Ang Ku Kueh Girl red packets will be available for redemption from 26 January onwards (while stocks last).  

From 26 January onwards: 

• Membership sign-up or renewal: Members will receive 1 set per year of sign-up or renewal 
• Book a chalet with CSC: Receive 1 set per night’s stay with any chalet type at Changi I, Changi II or Loyang. 

You can also redeem a set at the CSC Lunar New Year Bazaar 2026 on 31 January. Simply spend $60 or more from a single purchase, or combine purchases from up to three stalls.