KUCHING: As Ramadan approaches, the Ramadan Bazaar at the Medan Niaga Satok is set to return for its 12th consecutive year, bringing a nostalgic experience to visitors with a focus on traditional Sarawakian delicacies.
The Bazaar Ramadan organised by FAMA Sarawak, this year’s bazaar aims to revive forgotten traditional foods, introducing them to the younger generation.
Among the must-try specialties are the suntong tutok (flatten squid), kueh bongkol, and other unique delicacies that have long been part of Sarawak’s rich culinary heritage.
According to FAMA Sarawak director Norsalawaty Abdul Kadir, the bazaar has become a staple in the local Ramadan experience since 2013 and this year, FAMA Sarawak is organising two major bazaars in Kuching and Sibu, respectively.
“We will be organising two major bazaars this year; one at the Medan Niaga Satok in Kuching and at the Pasar Tandi Kekal Permas in Sibu.
“Across both locations, we hope to achieve a total sales of RM2.5 million with the expectation of 80,000 visitors at the Medan Niaga Satok alone,” she told the media at the Medan Niaga Satok Bazaar Ramadan site on Thursday (Feb 27).
One of the highlights of the Medan Niaga Satok Bazaar besides buying food for iftar (breaking fast), visitors can find fresh produce such as vegetables and other groceries at affordable prices.
She also expressed her gratitude to Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) and the Ministry of Health of Malaysia (KKM) for their cooperation in the organisation of the bazaars.
“KKM will oversee food safety and hygiene to ensure all food sold is safe for consumption, while DBKU has granted approval for the operation of this year’s Ramadan Bazaar,” she said.
Additionally, she said FAMA has planned various initiatives to minimise food wastage.
“One of the key strategies is to encourage higher sales through incentive programmes where visitors can participate in lucky draws from March 2 until 20.
“Visitors who make purchases, even as little as RM5, are eligible to join the lucky draw.
“The grand prize is a mountain bike, while the first prize is a 40-inch television.
“In the spirit of Syawal, we will also provide festive cakes and biscuits to further boost excitement and encourage purchases, ultimately reducing the likelihood of unsold food,” she said.
Furthermore, she said based on past records, FAMA has successfully achieved zero waste management in the bazaars.
“This means nearly all food sold has been fully consumed, and we have entrepreneurs whitin the bazaar who facilitate food donations to those in need, ensuring that surplus food does not go to waste,” she said.
Norsalawaty also said that the Ramadan Bazaar offers 72 vendor lots, ensuring a wide variety of food options.
“We have also carefully arranged the layout with the indoor section which is reserved for food that does not involved grilling or open flames.
“Whereas there are eight lots at the front section which is dedicated to grilled seafood and chicken to prevent smoke from affecting the overall shopping experiences.
“This setup ensures a comfortable environment for visitors, free from excessive smoke or strong odours,” she said.
The Ramadan Bazaar will officially start sales on March 1, and FAMA invites everyone to join and experience the delicious traditional foods the bazaar has to offer.
