The term 'Ramadan' is universally understood by people across the world as it is associated with fasting and is one of the five pillars of Islam. Muslims are required to abstain not just from food and drink between dawn and sunset but learn to be patient and persevering feelings of gratefulness are awakened in them during Ramadan. Apart from other religious obligations, food plays significant roles in this month and people look forward to enjoying many traditional foods sold at Ramadan Bazaar.
Muslims around the world perform the same types of worship during Ramadan, however the Ramadan Bazaar and food may vary from one country to another or even from province, town to village. It has multiple elements including food, culture and a sense of feast to be shared, not only among the Muslims, but among non-Muslims as well. In Malaysia, for instance, the streets are busy with with people rushing to buy Ramadan specialities like local cakes or sweets to rows of main and side dishes.
The Ramadan Bazaar is normally managed by local entrepreneurs and SME owners in several approved spots or streets throughout the country with operational hours between 3.00 pm to 7.30 pm. Realising the importance and contribution of Ramadan Bazaar to a country's economy, the Malaysian government is undertaking greater efforts to promote such tourism activities to expatriates and international tourists. It receives significant attention from the Local Government and Ministry of Tourism.
The Ramadan Bazaar at Putrajaya (Federal Government capital) and Cyberjaya (Multimedia Super Corridor) are fast becoming well-known among expatriates and international tourists. The changing lifestyle, the economy and people being busy with work, contribute to the popularity of the Ramadan bazaar which never fails to bring out the best of Malaysian food. These bazaars have attracted Malaysians and foreigners, especially international tourists who wanted to taste local delicacies as well as experience the unique atmosphere of the bazaars. Visiting the Ramadan bazaar is just like taking a culinary walk through Malaysia. Therefore, the authorities that are responsible for supervising the bazaars should enforce the necessary regulations for food operators, such as maintaining cleanliness, greetings, kindness and politeness, not only toward the local but and international tourists as well. Emphasising and practising these manners will create encouraging repeat and new visitors.
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