The Ramadan bazaars in Penang are once again a highlight of the fasting month, showcasing the region’s rich culinary heritage and multicultural influences. These bustling markets, which emerge each fasting month, are a must-visit for food enthusiasts and those seeking to experience the local culture.
At the Bertam Putra Ramadan Bazaar on the Penang mainland, approximately 100 stalls offer a diverse array of delicacies. One of the standout stalls is Pak Teh Ikan Bakar, famous for its ikan terubok bakar. Najihah Sezali, 20, who runs the stall with her siblings, highlighted the uniqueness of the terubok dish, which features a grated coconut filling and a special sauce made from her family’s secret recipe. Each grilled fish is sold for RM60. “Stuffing the fish with coconut filling elevates the buka puasa experience,” Najihah said. “Just pair it with plain white rice and that is sufficient.”
Najihah’s family has been selling grilled fish exclusively at Ramadan bazaars for the past 20 years. During the rest of the year, they work as fishmongers at Kubang Menerong in Tasek Gelugor on the mainland. The stall also offers other grilled fishes, including black pomfret, golden pomfret, and catfish, with prices ranging between RM3 and RM50 per fish.
Another popular item at the bazaar is nasi briyani, prepared by former hotel chef Mohd Azlan Abdul Rahmah. Unlike the Pakistani-influenced briyani commonly sold in Penang, Mohd Azlan’s Johor-style version offers a distinct Malay touch. “This is Malay-style nasi briyani, which is different from what you find in Penang. It is rich in flavour, cooked with aromatic spices and offers a unique taste,” he explained. Mohd Azlan, who previously worked at hotels in Kuala Lumpur, decided to become a food entrepreneur in 2020. This year marks his third time selling briyani at the Bertam Putra Ramadan Bazaar, where his stall has gained a loyal following. His Johor-style nasi briyani is priced at RM10 for chicken and RM12 for beef, with a whole grilled chicken leg available for RM15.
The Popia Mak Teh stall at the Kubang Semang Ramadan Bazaar, popularly known as Ban Busuk, is another attraction. This stall is known for its well-loved dish in Kedah, which is now gaining popularity among Penangites as well. One serving of the dish is priced at RM10 per pack and pairs well with rice, murtabak, or bread, making it a satisfying buka puasa meal.
On Penang Island, the Bayan Lepas Ramadan Bazaar features a local favourite, daging salai masak lemak, a Negri Sembilan delicacy that has been steadily gaining popularity. “Penang is usually known for its nasi kandar, but this Negri Sembilan dish has gotten quite a following here,” said Zuriah Abu Bakar, who has been selling the dish at the same bazaar for the past four years. The key to its taste lies in the smoking process and preparation of the beef. Besides beef, Zuriah also sells masak lemak itik salai, masak lemak ikan, and masak lemak ayam kampung.
The Ramadan Food Fest 2025 in Queen Street, George Town, is a vibrant event where many parents are seen spending the evening with their children, choosing food for the break of fast. The area is bustling with crowds exploring a wide array of food stalls, offering everything from savoury murtabak and aromatic nasi briyani to colourful desserts and refreshing drinks. A mother of three noted, “Sometimes, you crave food that you can’t cook at home, and it is nice to enjoy it with family.”
There are 39 Ramadan bazaars operating on Penang Island, with the largest one having 160 stalls at Jalan Mahkamah in Bayan Lepas. On the Penang mainland, there are 47 Ramadan bazaars across three districts: 19 in north Seberang Perai, 18 in central Seberang Perai, and 10 in south Seberang Perai. The biggest Ramadan bazaar on the mainland is in Ban Busuk with 170 stalls.
- Family Togetherness: The Ramadan bazaars emphasize family togetherness, with many families visiting the bazaars together to select their evening meals.
- Culinary Diversity: The bazaars offer a wide range of traditional Malay dishes, fusion meals, and local specialties, reflecting Penang’s diverse culinary landscape.
- Community Engagement: The bazaars are not just about food; they also help preserve the community’s identity and cultural heritage in Penang.
