[4] Roti jala has historical roots that are closely related to the influence of Indian and Middle Eastern culture that entered the Malay Archipelago through maritime trade routes in the 13th to 17th centuries.

[5] Roti Jala has a long history in Southeast Asia, dating back to the early 15th century.

It is also called roti renjis, which means "Rinsed Bread", because of the original way it was made, which was by hand, in which the ingredient would be 'rinsed' onto the pan to be cooked.

roti kirai is another name in which 'kirai' refers to the circular motion of the hand when pouring the ingredient from a condensed milk can with tiny holes poked through it.

A specialized utensil is often used, resembling a cup with multiple outlets beneath, which aids the creation of the "net-like" effect.