BY ANIS NAJIHA AHMAD

AND

In Malaysia , Ramadhan holds particular significance and is characterised by vibrant cultural traditions and culinary delights . Among these traditions , the Ramadhan buffet , offered by hotels and restaurants across the country , has become emblematic .

These buffets cater to the physical needs of fasting individuals and serve as a platform for people of all faiths , including office workers , to come together and share blessings .

Friends , family and community members from different faiths also frequently participate in these gatherings , fostering intercultural understanding and unity among diverse communities .

NURRULHIDAYAH AHMAD FADZILLAH

INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR HALAL RESEARCH AND TRAINING ( INHART ), INTERNATIONAL ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY MALAYSIA

ALLURE OF RAMADHAN DINING EXPERIENCE

Ramadhan buffets in Malaysian hotels offer more than just food ; they create a unique atmosphere with festive decorations , including vibrant lights and traditional displays .

As the call to prayer signals the end of the fast , guests gather at communal tables to enjoy the iftar , the meal Muslims share to break their fast after sunset . Guests are welcomed with dates and refreshing beverages , symbolising the breaking of the fast .

Live cooking stations and interactive counters add excitement , allowing guests to witness their favourite dishes being prepared . From classic Malay dishes like grilled satay and rendang to Middle Eastern delights such as kebabs and baklava , and from Indian curries to Western pasta and salads , Ramadhan buffets offer diverse options .

Ramadhan buffets in Malaysian hotels provide a convenient and luxurious dining option for fasting individuals and their families . Hotels compete to outdo one another each year with menu variety , culinary creativity , and lavish presentations .

These buffets support the local economy , particularly the hospitality and food industries . They create employment opportunities for chefs , cooks , servers , and other hospitality professionals while stimulating tourism .

Recognising the significance of Ramadhan buffets in promoting gastronomy tourism , the Ministry of Tourism , Arts , and Culture , in collaboration with key partners such as Tourism Malaysia , the Islamic Tourism Centre ( ITC ), the Malaysian Association of Hotels ( MAH ), and the Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners ( MAHO ), introduced the MY Ramadhan Experience packages in 2024 .

This immersive programme not only provides a glimpse into the vibrant Ramadhan festivities but also offers guests the opportunity to indulge in complimentary iftar meals and experience the delights of Ramadhan buffets ( Tourism Malaysia , 2024 ).

CRITICISM OF RAMADHAN BUFFETS

While immensely popular , Ramadhan buffets have not escaped criticism . One prominent concern , as articulated by the Perak Religious Council President , is their departure from the actual Islamic teachings . This departure manifests in several ways , including food waste and commercialising Ramadhan buffets ( Leong , 2022 ).

One significant concern is the potential

“ These buffets support the local economy , particularly the hospitality and food industries . They create employment opportunities for chefs , cooks , servers , and other hospitality professionals while stimulating tourism .”

for food wastage , as hotels often prepare large quantities to cater to diverse tastes and preferences . This contradicts the Islamic principle of avoiding excess and contributes to environmental degradation and resource depletion .

Being wasteful is an act abhorred in Islam , as attested in verses 26 and 27 of Surah al- Isra ’ in the Quran .

“ Give to close relatives their due , as well as the poor and ‘ needy ’ travellers . And do not spend wastefully . Verily spendthrifts are brothers of Satan ; and Satan is to his Lord ( himself ) ungrateful .” ( Quran , Surah al-Isra , 17 : 26 and 27 ) Another criticism is the commercialisation of Ramadhan , with restaurants and hotels capitalising on the spiritual season to maximise profits . Some establishments charge exorbitant rates for their buffet offerings , reaching financially burdensome levels for many individuals and families .

This exploitation for profit-seeking purposes is viewed as antithetical to the principles of compassion , generosity , and