Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang brought together heritage and heart with the launch of its Nostalgia P. Ramlee Buffet, held in conjunction with an Iftar celebration for children from the Penang Islamic Orphanage Home at the Garden Café. The evening wove together culture, community, and compassion in a tribute to one of Malaysia’s most beloved entertainers.
The event drew a gathering of distinguished guests, including Tan Sri Dato’ Seri (Dr) Yussof Latiff, President of the Penang Malay Association, accompanied by his wife Puan Seri Suziwati Baidawi. The most poignant presence of the evening came from Natasya Nasir, granddaughter of the legendary Tan Sri P. Ramlee, whose attendance lent a deeply personal dimension to the night’s celebration of her grandfather’s enduring cultural legacy.
A total of 53 children, 27 boys and 26 girls, from the Penang Islamic Orphanage Home were welcomed as guests of honour for the evening. Their presence gave the celebration its most meaningful layer, anchoring the event firmly in the spirit of Ramadan, a month defined by giving, reflection, and community.
Jegan Selvarajan, General Manager of Shangri-La Golden Sands and Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, officiated the ribbon-cutting ceremony alongside the distinguished guests, formally opening what would become a night of nostalgia, performance, and warmth.
Following the ceremony, guests were invited to tour a specially curated exhibition showcasing P. Ramlee memorabilia and iconic costumes from his celebrated career. The display offered a look into the life and artistry of a man who remains, decades after his passing, a defining figure in Malaysian cinema, music, and culture. For many in attendance, the exhibition was a reminder of just how deeply P. Ramlee’s work continues to resonate across generations.
The evening’s entertainment brought that legacy to life. Suhaimi bin Ahmad, a P. Ramlee impersonator, held the room’s attention with a tribute performance featuring several of the legend’s most recognisable hits. His performance drew warm applause and, for those old enough to remember, a fair share of fond memories. Adding to the cultural depth of the evening, students from Taman Sejahtera National Secondary School delivered a spirited Boria performance, a performing art form with deep roots in Penang’s artistic tradition that dates back generations.
The Nostalgia P. Ramlee Buffet itself reflected the era it celebrated. Décor and culinary presentations drew inspiration from the charm and character of P. Ramlee’s time, creating an atmosphere that felt both celebratory and reverential. Children and guests broke fast together in a communal setting, sharing a meal that carried the warmth and generosity associated with the holy month.
One of the most memorable moments of the night arrived when Natasya Nasir was surprised with a birthday cake. The gesture drew smiles and applause from across the room, turning an already special evening into something even more personal. It was a moment that felt fitting for a celebration centred on family, memory, and togetherness.
Before the night drew to a close, Shangri-La Golden Sands presented each child with duit raya, a gesture that spread cheer throughout the room and sent the children home with something to smile about.
The Nostalgia P. Ramlee Buffet stands as a tribute to Malaysia’s golden era of entertainment while staying true to what Ramadan asks of those who observe it, to give generously, to come together, and to remember what matters. Through music, culture, and an evening shared with 53 children who needed a reason to celebrate, Shangri-La Golden Sands delivered exactly that.
The Nostalgia P. Ramlee Buffet is available throughout the Ramadan season at Garden Café, Shangri-La Golden Sands, Penang.
