Midnight feasting in Malaysia sparks health concerns
PETALING JAYA, Malaysia (MNTV) – The Malaysian tradition of ‘moreh’—a communal meal enjoyed after tarawih prayers during Ramadan—has evolved from a simple post-iftar snack into an extravagant late-night feast.
While this practice fosters community bonding, health experts warn that overconsumption, particularly of calorie-dense foods, poses serious health risks.
According to Universiti Putra Malaysia research associate and dietitian Prof. Dr. Barakatun Nisak Mohd Yusof, moreh meals often consist of high-calorie, fried, and sugary foods such as kuih-muih, nasi lemak, mee goreng, and sweetened beverages.
She cautioned that consuming such heavy meals late at night can disrupt metabolism and lead to weight gain.
“Many people eat without portion control, and because the body’s metabolism slows down at night, excess calories are more likely to be stored as fat,” she explained. “Heavy meals can also cause bloating, indigestion, and acid reflux, especially when lying down soon after eating.”
Additionally, Barakatun Nisak highlighted the impact of late-night feasting on sleep quality. High-fat and sugary foods can interfere with melatonin production, leading to poor sleep patterns. She also noted a common misconception that fasting throughout the day justifies overindulgence at night.
“Even balanced meals eaten too late can impair glucose metabolism and reduce insulin sensitivity, disrupting the body’s natural metabolic processes,” she added. “This can lead to hormonal imbalances that contribute to weight gain.”
Barakatun Nisak urged Malaysians to rethink their approach to moreh, suggesting that it should be a light and nutritious snack rather than a full meal. Healthier choices—such as protein-rich foods to maintain muscle mass, fibre-rich options to aid digestion, and sufficient hydration with minimal sugar—should be prioritised.
“If healthier options are unavailable, portion control is key to preventing moreh from becoming an unnecessary third meal,” she advised. “Moreh should be about togetherness and reflection, not overindulgence.”
She further suggested that mosques and suraus could lead by example by providing balanced and nutritious options without compromising tradition.
Echoing these concerns, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia public health medicine specialist Prof. Dr. Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh highlighted the contradiction between Ramadan’s emphasis on self-restraint and the trend of excessive eating during iftar and moreh.
“Ramadan promotes intermittent fasting, but many see it as an opportunity to feast. Breaking fast with water and dates, followed by a light meal after prayers, aligns more closely with the spirit of the holy month,” she said.
Sharifa Ezat also pointed to the issue of food waste, which spikes during Ramadan due to excessive consumption and lavish spreads. She urged families to adopt mindful eating habits to prevent unnecessary food wastage.
“Proper and healthy eating habits should be encouraged, especially during iftar, moreh, and sahur (pre-dawn meal). Practising moderation will not only benefit health but also reduce waste,” she concluded.
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