In demand Ramadan buffets in Malaysia get pricier
Prices starting from about 200 Malaysian ringgit ($50) and going up to 318 Malaysian ringgit ($81) per person
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (MNTV) – With about two weeks to go before Ramadan, promotions for breaking fast buffet spreads are intensifying across social media and hotel websites in Malaysia with a wide range of prices on offer, including packages exceeding 300 Malaysian ringgit ($71) per person, reports New Strait Times.
Early bird discounts are being rolled out for bookings, alongside diverse dining options to suit different tastes, from standard eateries to luxury hotels.
Checks at several five-star hotels around the capital show most are actively promoting early reservations, with prices starting from about 200 Malaysian ringgit ($50) and going up to 318 Malaysian ringgit ($81) per person.
Some hotels housing up to four restaurants are promoting their Ramadan buffets as early as Feb 17, coinciding with Chinese New Year celebrations, ahead of the fasting month expected to begin on Feb 19.
The steady rise in Ramadan buffet prices over the years, particularly over the past two years, has raised questions about value for money and whether diners are truly getting their money’s worth.
A few years ago, a full Ramadan buffet at a hotel could be enjoyed for only a few dozen ringgit. Today, that same amount may only be sufficient to cover a child’s meal.
Despite the higher prices, several hotels contacted said daily bookings for breaking fast at their restaurants, some of which can accommodate up to 200 diners, are almost fully taken.
The trend has reignited a familiar debate surrounding Ramadan buffets, namely concerns that they encourage wastefulness in spending and food, seemingly at odds with the true values of the holy month, which emphasize moderation.
Federal Territories Dr Ahmad Fauwaz Fadzil said organizing Ramadan buffets is permissible as long as prices are appropriate to the spirit of the holy month and the concept does not pose any issues from Islamic law perspective.
“Ramadan buffet prices should not be excessively high to the point that they resemble food festivals or displays of extravagance,” Ahmad Fauwaz said.
Asked whether operators setting high buffet prices should be boycotted, Ahmad Fauwaz said such action was unnecessary. “If the trader is Muslim, we should help support the Muslim economy. Hotels are also encouraged to align their buffets with the atmosphere of the holy month.
“This includes providing spaces for worship so that the ‘spirit’ and essence of Ramadan are not lost,” he said.
Meanwhile, an academic at the International Islamic University Malaysia, Abdullah Bukhari Abdul Rahim, who is also a preacher, said the issue of Ramadan buffet prices should be viewed in terms of priorities and individual affordability.
He said for Muslims who can afford it, there is nothing wrong with enjoying what may be considered expensive food for breaking fast, as seeking tasty and quality dishes is not prohibited in Islam, provided it is done in moderation.
“Each individual’s financial capacity differs. As long as spending is moderate and halal, it is permissible,” Abdullah Bukhari said.
The Quranic studies lecturer at the university’s Centre for Languages stressed that large food expenditures are only appropriate for those who are genuinely well off and have fulfilled their responsibilities in giving charity beyond the norm.
“There are still many underprivileged groups who need help. It is better for surplus sustenance to be channelled to those in need.
“A believer eats in moderation. Ramadan is a special physical gift from Allah, as we are trained to understand that the stomach can be a source of both illness and health,” he said.
Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations chief operating officer Nur Asyikin Aminuddin said Ramadan buffets are a form of consumer desire, not a basic need.
“As such, prices charged by hotels for Ramadan buffets cannot be regulated because they are not essential consumer goods, but rather wants. Pricing is the right of the premises concerned. The public is therefore advised to spend wisely according to their financial means,” Nur Asyikin said.
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