ramadhan – theHive.Asia

Things to do at home during Ramadhan

TheHIVE.Asia — Tue, 28 Apr 2020 21:00:00 +0000

Just because Ramadhan feels a little different this year, what with social distancing and lockdown protocols in place thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, it doesn’t mean it’s any less meaningful compared to previous years.

Since a majority of us have to spend this Ramadhan by staying at home full time, let’s take a look at some of the things we can do at home throughout the month.

Read Ramadhan-themed books with the kids

For parents with young kids, this is the best time to bond with your little ones while teaching them the values of Ramadan. Look for Ramadan-focused or themed books that you can read together so your children will better understand the importance of the holy month.

Bake Raya cookies

(Photo source: NSTP | Khairul Helmy Mohd Din)

Another great way to get the children involved during Ramadhan is by baking Raya cookies together! This will keep them busy and if they suggest wacky recipes, why not try them out? Who knows, there’ll be a new cookie flavour to share with everyone this year. Those without kids can of course still do this, there’s definitely no excuse for you to not bake your own Raya cookies this year!

Host a virtual buka puasa with family and friends

One of the highlights of Ramadhan is spending iftar or buka puasa with family and friends, enjoying delicious food together after a whole day of fasting. Social distancing is making that difficult but just like how concerts and meetings are going virtual now, you can also gather your loves ones remotely and enjoy a nice meal together.

Hold a mini bazaar at home

If you’re missing the hustle and bustle of a Ramadhan bazaar, you can try to recreate a mini version of it at home. You probably won’t have a lot of choices (there’s only so much of the food you can make in your own kitchen) and your “customers” will only be your family members or housemates, but it will make for one memorable Ramadhan 2020 experience.

Fulfil your Zakat online

While not a new thing, it’s definitely an essential component of this year’s Ramadhan. Of course, this can be done from the comfort of your home as long as you have Internet access. Aside from this, other good deeds (Sadaqah) you can do this month include helping your elderly neighbours get their grocery online and delivered safely to them as well as donating to COVID-19 funds.

Kaka Azraff, Aizat Amdan among performers for “Ramadan Di Rumah”

TheHIVE.Asia — Mon, 27 Apr 2020 00:19:00 +0000

Hoping to lift the spirits of fellow Malaysians during this out-of-the-ordinary Ramadan (alternatively spelled Ramadhan) time, several singers have banded together to hold weekly online performances throughout the holy month.

Kaka Azraff and Aizat Amdan are among the artistes who are participating in “Ramadan di Rumah Bersama Warner Music & Yoodo”.

The special event, which translates to “Ramadan at home with Warner Music & Yoodoo”, will see several of the record label’s artistes performing online throughout April and May. The performances are streamed live on both Warner Music’s Facebook and Yoodo’s Facebook.

It is held in lieu of the usual breaking fast ceremonies held annually to help those in need, since large gatherings are prohibited during the currently ongoing Movement Control Order (MCO).

Shah Shamshiri, Manager of Warner Music Malaysia (Domestic), said in a press statement that he is grateful to those who have supported their effort in providing food for the needy during this fasting month.

“Ramadan di Rumah” kicked off last Sunday with performances by Aizat Amdan, Bunga and Amir Hasan. There will be three more upcoming performances to be held on the next following Sundays in May.

Aside from Kaka Azraff, other upcoming performers include Awi Rafael, De Fam, Layla Sania, Kaka Azraff, Sissy Iman and Bruneian singer Rizal Rasid, along with a special appearance by Dato Jamal Abdillah during the final episode.

(Photo source: Kaka Azraff’s Instagram | Aizat Amdan’s Instagram)

Bazaar Ramadhan food you can easily make at home

TheHIVE.Asia — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 02:09:00 +0000

Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic which has forced the government to extend the Movement Control Order (MCO) further (as of yesterday the MCO would only end this 12 May), Malaysians are robbed of the joy of gorging on yummy treats from the annual Bazaar Ramadhan this year. Nevertheless, you can always try to recreate your own mini Bazaar at home by making some of the food yourself. Below is our pick of food often found at these bazaars that you can easily make at home.

Lemang (no bamboo needed)

(Photo source: LinsFood)

While traditionally cooked in bamboo, this local favourite can also be cooked without it – LinsFood will show you how. Chef Azlin doesn’t only give you a step-by-step guide but she also explains more about the well-loved local delicacy made of glutinous rice.

Cheesy banana fritters

(Photo source: Saji)

That’s just a fancy way of saying pisang goreng cheese. Banana fritters is a staple at any Malaysian food bazaar and to make it even more appetising, cheese is added to it. An even fancier version features chocolate toppings as well. Check out the ‘cheese-tastic’ recipe at Saji.

Cold drinks

(Photo source: ThamKC | Shutterstock | Culture Trip)

One thing that every Bazaar Ramadhan is sure to have is these icy cold, colourful drinks. All you’ll need is water, ice and any cordial drink of your choice (orange, lychee, rose, etc). Add milk to a rose cordial and you’ll get bandung.

Fried noodle

(Photo source: Rusukiri Blogspot : Hanim Hashim)

A fried noodle stall like above is often seen at a Bazaar Ramadhan. The choice of menu available are usually mee goreng, kuey teow goreng and bihun goreng, all of which you can easily make at home. Just pick a noodle of your choice and fry it in a wok with some vegetable and meat or seafood.

Kek Batik

(Photo source: Julia Johari)

Of all the desserts to make, this should be the easiest as it requires no baking or frying. Julia Johari has the recipe for this chocolatey goodness. The basic ingredients are biskut Marie, butter, cocoa powder, Milo and creamer, pretty much what most kitchens in Malaysia would already have.

Les’ Copaque shares new “Ramadhan Tiba” song featuring “Upin & Ipin”

TheHIVE.Asia — Thu, 23 Apr 2020 02:01:00 +0000

To celebrate the upcoming Ramadhan, local production company Les’ Copaque Production has released a new “Ramadhan Tiba” music video.

The song, originally sung by Indonesian singer Opick, was covered by the beloved animated characters Upin, Ipin and their friends.

“Alhamdulillah, tomorrow we will begin fasting. We’ll surely miss the Ramadhan bazaars and terawih prayers at the mosque. Even though fasting is a little different this year, but our intention and purpose remain the same.

“Let’s fast with all our might this year, pray a lot, good deeds, save and break our fast in simple ways,” Les’ Copaque posted on Facebook.

Aside from the music video, Les’ Copaque also uploaded a teaser to promote the 14th season of the animated series “Upin & Ipin” on its official YouTube channel.

In an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19, it has also produced three videos that advise the public to comply to the Movement Control Order (MCO) and on how to prevent further spread.

The “Pesanan #DudukRumah #StayHome” video, which features the voice cast of “Upin & Ipin” along with the Les’ Copaque production team, have reached over a million views and more than 100,000 likes.

Take a look at the “Ramadhan Tiba” music video featuring Upin, Ipin and their friends below!

Seven of the Best of Kuala Lumpur’s Ramadhan Buffets

TheHIVE.Asia — Mon, 27 May 2019 07:03:00 +0000

Traditionally, the month of Ramadhan has been associated with several communal values, including empathy, forgiveness, charity, steadfastness and patience. This time marks the perfect opportunity for Malaysians from all walks of life to celebrate togetherness in a true spirit of unity and concord. It is a time where family, friends and loved ones gather together to strengthen family ties, develop lasting bonds and encourage comradery and goodwill among themselves.

And what better way to do this than over a Buka Puasa buffet session while enjoying the diverse range of cuisines that Malaysia is known for. If you’re wondering where to dine this Ramadhan, look no further as we curate some of the best Buka Puasa buffets that Kuala Lumpur has to offer.

The Courtyard @ Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur managed by Banyan Tree

The newly opened Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur has certainly been garnering rave reviews from guests with its signature hospitality, iconic to the Banyan Tree Brand. The Courtyard’s Muhibbah Feast truly lives up to its name with a diverse array of dishes, derived from Malay, Chinese, Indian and Peranakan cuisines. The kitchen maestro’s at the eatery will be on deck, showcasing their skills as they prepare dishes with flair and finesse in live cooking stations which will feature local favourites, which among others include satay, roasted lamb, nasi lemak and apam balik.

These will be complemented with a selection of thirst-quenching local beverages (perfect to beat the heat) including sugarcane juice, soya bean with grass jelly (cincau) and Bandung. End your meal with a classical array of traditional sweets and desserts, which includes favourites such as ais kacang, traditional kuih and biscuits, bread and butter pudding and an assortment of cakes. Durian lovers – take note – in a truly unique offering, the Courtyard’s buffet will also feature a special durian fare as part of its buffet, with durians specially brought in from Bentong, Pahang!

Available till 2 June 2019

Price: RM135 nett (adult) RM68 (children)

Group purchases of ten persons are also available.

Two persons eat for free with every eight adults paying full fare.

The Courtyard @ Pavilion Hotel Kuala Lumpur

170, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur

Tel: +603 2117 2821

Mosaic @ Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur

Overlooking the KLCC park, the elegant interior of Mosaic at Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur reflects local Peranakan culture with intricate hanging pewter lights and beautiful mosaic walls, creating the perfect setting for a charming buffet featuring the Royal cuisine of Pahang.

Guests will be able to enjoy a variety of royal and traditional favourites from the state of Pahang featuring recipes from Her Majesty’s cookbook Air Tangan Tengku Puan Pahang: Masakan Tradisional Pahang which include kerabu daging, kerabu pucuk selembut, kerabu pucuk paku, otak-otak kukus, nasi Kebawah Duli, ikan Patin pais tempoyak, opor burung puyuh, rendang Haji Mahmud, ketupat pulut sotong, sambal Pahang, Laksa Pahang, Mee Jawa, lempeng debab puding raja, Kujub labu, Seri kaya nangka, Kuih telor kancil and an assortment of Malaysian kuih.

Available till 4 June 2019

Price: RM218

Mosaic @ Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur

Lobby Level, Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur

Tel: +603 2330 8798

Curate @ Four Seasons, Kuala Lumpur

True to the name of the Four Seasons’ lively all-day dining restaurant, Celebrity Chef Dato’ Fazley Yaakob has joined forces with Executive Chef Junious Dickerson to curate Sajian Nusantara, a Ramadhan buka puasa buffet special, which brings together flavours from Thailand, Indonesia, China, India and Malaysia.

The chefs take centre-stage at the Curate’s very own show kitchen for a treat as pleasing to the sight as they are for the taste buds. Watch them as they bring to live signature dishes as well as a selection of dishes from around the globe.

Available till 4 June 2019

Price: RM208 nett (till 30 May) RM178 nett (31 May to 4 June)

Curate @ Four Seasons, Kuala Lumpur

145, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur

Tel: +603 2382 8630

Nook @ Aloft, KL Sentral

This Ramadhan, Nook presents its Joms Buka buffet dinner special created by the eatery’s Sous Chef, Ahmad Zaki Harun and Junior Sous Chef, Muhammad Hafiz Isham. The tantalising array of more than 150 dishes will feature traditional Indonesian dishes including kambing bakar bumbu, bakso, nasi ayam, ayam cabe Ijo, tempeh goreng berempah and ikan bumbu berempah.

To further entice the palate, the spread will also comprise of local Chinese, Indian and western dishes including wok-fried Kam Heong crabs, stir-fried black pepper beef, lamb vindaloo, Gosh Badami, lamb kurma, spicy mutton masala, pizza and vegetarian lasagne. Be sure to leave space for equally tantalising and eclectic mix of desserts including kuih lapis bandung, bubur sumsum, sago air gula, warm chocolate brownies, warm apple crumble, ais kacang, lemon meringue pie and strawberry mousse cheesecake.

Available till 3 June 2019

Price: 138 nett

Nook @ Aloft KL Sentral

5, Jalan Stesen Sentral, 50470 Kuala Lumpur

Tel: +603 2723 1188

Serena Brasserie @ intercontinental, Kuala Lumpur

The chefs at Serena Brasserie at Kuala Lumpur’s Intercontinental gets personal this Ramadhan as they cook up a feast featuring their childhood favourites from treasured family recipes such as sup kawah gearbox, ikan merah tiga rasa, kibas bakar, murtabak, roti canai rojak, stir-fried tiger prawns with butter sauce and egg floss, slipper lobsters, chicken tandoori, lamb biriyani and fish head curry, just to name a few. Also on the list of items are a delightful selection of childhood favourite desserts including ice-cream potong and tau foo fah.

With a dedicated children’s corner, Serena Brasserie is perfect for families with little ones!

Avaiable till 4 June 2019

Price:
Weekdays: 188 nett (adults) RM69 (children)

Weekends: RM158 nett (adults) RM 55 (children)

Serena Brasserie @ Intercontinental Kuala Lumpur

165, Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Tel: +603 2782 6228

Temptations @ Renaissance, Kuala Lumpur

If this eatery’s name is anything to go by, then Temptations at Renaissance, Kuala Lumpur certainly has what it takes to tantalise any taste bud this Ramadhan with a sumptuous local feast featuring traditional Malay specials and authentic local favourites. The aptly named Sajian Aneka Rasa buffet will include Chef Supi Mansor’s very own signature sup tulang rawan and live cooking stations including grilled whole lamb and Chef Azrul’s traditional homemade gulai kawah kambing.

Other dishes which guests can look forward to include Pak Udin’s lemang bakar, kerabu mangga muda, ulam, tauhu sumbat, ayam percik, daging rending, sambal udang petai, kari kepala ikan, bubur lambuk, kambing kari, an assortment of kuih and Sarawak layer cake.

Available till 3 June 2019

Price: RM138 nett (adult) RM69 nett (children)

Temptations @ Renaissance Kuala Lumpur Hotel

Corner of Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Tel: +603 2771 6692

Pullman KLCC

Take a culinary journey around Malaysia with Pullman KLCC’s Destinasi Rasa Ramadhan buffet, as their chefs present over 200 local delicacies, highlighting signature dishes from each state, embodying Malaysia’s unique cultural diversity.

Explore favourites from Melaka’s asam pedas to Kedah’s gulai kawah tulang kambing. Treat yourself to exquisite flavours from around the country all in one place. Also featured are authentic kampong stalls located at the hotel’s porte-cochere, offering deliciously creamy durian, cut open and served fresh.

Available till 5 June 2019

Price: RM138 (adult) RM69 (children)

Pullman KLCC

4, Jalan Conlay, Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Kuala Lumpur

Tel: +603 2170 8888