As Hari Raya approaches, the familiar excitement of festive preparations begins to fill the air. For many families, this means planning gatherings, preparing delicious meals, and of course, finding the perfect Baju Raya—especially for the little ones who bring so much joy to the celebration.

This year, our journey led us back to a place that has long been part of our Raya exploration, the Pasar Borong Pandan.

Over the years, this spot has built its reputation as a practical and accessible destination for Raya shopping. Parents would come here looking for affordable yet stylish Baju Raya for their children, often discovering great deals among rows of vibrant stalls. From traditional baju kurung to modern, trendy designs, the variety here has always made it worth the visit.

But during our recent trip, we noticed a shift. The walkways felt a little more open, the pace slightly slower. Compared to previous years, the crowd was not as overwhelming. The usual festive rush seemed more subdued. While some might see this as a drawback, it also gave us the opportunity to experience Pasar Borong Pandan in a different light—more relaxed, more personal, and perhaps even more meaningful.

With fewer crowds, we found ourselves spending more time engaging with vendors, browsing through selections at ease, and appreciating the effort behind each stall. Every piece of clothing, every neatly arranged rack, tells a story of preparation, hope, and resilience.

And the selection? Still very much worth exploring. There are still plenty of beautiful and affordable Baju Raya options available for children—perfect for parents who are looking to balance style and budget this festive season. Whether you’re going for something classic or something more playful for your little ones, you’re likely to find something here that fits just right.

Interestingly, Pasar Borong Pandan is no longer just about shopping. In recent years, a small but growing number of food stalls have added a new dimension to the experience. As you walk through the area, you’ll notice pockets of activity where visitors stop to grab a quick bite, enjoy local snacks, or simply take a break from browsing. It creates a more wholesome outing—one where you can shop, eat, and spend quality time with family all in one place.

Located around the Uptown Pandan area, the space carries a familiar, down-to-earth charm. It may not be as flashy as larger commercial malls or trending bazaars, but that’s exactly where its beauty lies. It’s simple, authentic, and deeply rooted in the local community.

However, behind the scenes, many vendors are facing increasing challenges. Rising operational costs, particularly stall rentals, have made it harder for small businesses to thrive. Coupled with the decline in footfall, it’s clear that places like Pasar Borong Pandan need more support now than ever.

And this is where we believe small actions can make a big difference. By choosing to visit, explore, and even make a purchase, you’re not just preparing for Raya—you’re contributing to the sustainability of local businesses and helping vendors continue doing what they do best.

Sometimes, it’s not about going to the biggest or most popular place. Sometimes, it’s about rediscovering spaces that have quietly served communities for years—and giving them the attention they deserve.

So if you’re still searching for Baju Raya for your little ones, or simply looking for a place to explore this festive season, consider making a stop at Pasar Borong Pandan.

Take your time, walk through the stalls, have a bite, and soak in the atmosphere. Because in places like this, the experience goes beyond shopping—it becomes a story of community, resilience, and support.

This is a great discovery by JomTaralets, a foodie and travel blogger you can trust. And as always, this is part of our ongoing effort to give back through our #JomtaraletsSupportLocalCampaign

As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, many diners begin searching for the perfect place to gather with family, friends, and colleagues for a memorable iftar experience. This year, Novotel Johor Bahru City Centre introduces its very first Ramadan buffet showcase, themed “Kenangan Bonda”, offering guests a nostalgic culinary journey inspired by comforting home-cooked flavours.

Recently, we had the opportunity to attend a special preview session where selected media, content creators, and food enthusiasts were invited to explore some of the highlights that will be featured during the upcoming Ramadan buffet.

A Taste of Nostalgia with “Kenangan Bonda”

The theme Kenangan Bonda, which translates to Mother’s Memories, celebrates the warmth and heartfelt dishes often associated with home cooking during Ramadan. The concept reflects the comforting flavours that many Malaysians grew up enjoying — dishes that bring families together during the breaking of fast.

Guests visiting the buffet can expect a wide variety of traditional Malay favourites, regional specialities, and live cooking stations that recreate the lively atmosphere of a Ramadan bazaar.

The Ramadan buffet will take place at The Grand Chamber Ballroom on Level 12, providing a spacious dining environment where guests can enjoy their meals comfortably while also experiencing live entertainment and festive ambience.

A Culinary Spread of Traditional Favourites

During the preview session, we had the chance to explore several of the menu highlights that will be part of the buffet spread.

Among the standout dishes were classic Malaysian favourites such as Daging Masak Rendang Tok, known for its rich and aromatic spices, as well as Ikan Pari Masak Asam Pedas, which delivers a delightful balance of tangy and spicy flavours. Other comforting dishes included Ayam Kalio, Ayam Masak Vindaloo, and Jantung Pisang Masak Lemak, showcasing the diversity of flavours present in traditional cuisine.

Seafood lovers can also look forward to selections such as Sotong Bakar Sos Bunga Kantan and Ikan Bakar “Laos” Serai Pandan, which feature fragrant herbs and spices that elevate the taste of grilled seafood dishes.

Another unique highlight includes Rendang Kupang Daun Kunyit, a dish that combines tender mussels with the aromatic essence of turmeric leaves.

Live Action Stations Bring the Experience to Life

One of the most exciting elements of the buffet is the presence of live action cooking stations, where chefs prepare dishes fresh on the spot.

During the preview, guests were able to witness the preparation of Roti John, a popular Malaysian street food favourite. Watching the chefs carefully assemble and grill the dish right in front of diners added an interactive touch to the overall dining experience.

Additional live stations expected during the Ramadan buffet include satay stations, soup counters, and noodle stations, allowing guests to customise their meals according to their preferences while enjoying freshly prepared dishes.

The Star Attraction: Gerai Kambing Golek

No Ramadan buffet would be complete without a signature carving station, and at Novotel Johor Bahru City Centre, the spotlight is on the Gerai Kambing Golek.

The slow-roasted lamb was one of the highlights during the preview session, with many guests eagerly queuing to savour freshly carved slices. Tender, flavourful, and perfectly roasted, the Kambing Golek is expected to be one of the most sought-after dishes during the buffet.

Ending the Feast on a Sweet Note

To complete the dining experience, the buffet also features an impressive dessert selection.

Guests can look forward to a delightful mix of traditional local kuih-muih alongside international bite-sized cakes and pastries. The colourful dessert spread offers the perfect way to end the meal, providing a balance of familiar Malaysian sweets and modern dessert creations.

Ramadan Buffet Details

The Kenangan Bonda Ramadan Buffet Dinner will run from:

Pricing for the buffet is as follows:

• RM198 nett – Adult
• RM158 nett – Senior Citizen (60 years old and above)
• RM118 nett – Child (6 – 12 years old)

Guests can also enjoy daily lucky draws, festive welcome gifts, and live entertainment throughout the Ramadan promotion period, making it a lively and memorable iftar experience.

A Promising First Ramadan Showcase

Considering that this is the hotel’s first Ramadan buffet offering, Novotel Johor Bahru City Centre has certainly set a promising benchmark. With a well-curated menu, engaging live cooking stations, and a spacious dining environment, the Kenangan Bonda buffet provides a welcoming space for diners to celebrate the spirit of Ramadan together.

For those looking to explore a new iftar destination in Johor Bahru this year, the Kenangan Bonda Ramadan Buffet is definitely worth adding to your list.

 

KOTA KINABALU | March 3, 2026 – In an effort to introduce and create greater awareness of the upcoming BAS.MY Kota Kinabalu public transportation service, Jagiuh Byu Sdn Bhd recently organised an on-ground registration drive for the Unlimited Travel Pass (Concession Card) at Hospital Queen Elizabeth II (QE2).

The two-day registration initiative was designed to bring the BAS.MY service closer to the community while allowing eligible passengers to sign up early for the special concession pass. The counter welcomed registrations from several eligible groups including school students aged 7–17, senior citizens aged 60 and above, Persons with Disabilities (OKU), and university students.

By setting up the registration counter at one of Kota Kinabalu’s busiest public institutions, the initiative aimed to reach a wide range of residents who frequently travel within the city for work, education, and medical appointments. Hospital QE2 serves thousands of visitors daily, making it an ideal location to introduce the upcoming bus service to the public.

According to Jaguh Byu Sdn Bhd Official FB page, the initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure that the community is well informed and prepared ahead of the official rollout of the BAS.MY Kota Kinabalu service, which is expected to begin operations soon. The registration drive not only allows eligible passengers to secure their concession passes but also provides an opportunity for the public to learn more about the improved bus transportation system that will soon serve the city.

The BAS.MY Kota Kinabalu network is part of a wider initiative to modernise and strengthen public bus services, offering residents a more reliable, accessible, and convenient way to travel within the city. With better route connectivity and a structured service network, the system aims to encourage more people to consider public transport as a practical daily commuting option.

Through outreach programmes such as this registration drive, Jagiuh Byu Sdn Bhd hopes to increase public awareness and engagement with the BAS.MY service, ensuring that residents are ready to take advantage of the new transportation option once it begins operations.

As Kota Kinabalu continues to grow, initiatives like BAS.MY represent an important step towards building a more sustainable and efficient urban mobility system for the community.

Ramadan is always a special time of the year when families, friends, and colleagues gather to break fast and enjoy meaningful moments together. For those looking for a memorable iftar experience in Kota Kinabalu, the Taste of Borneo Dinner Buffet at the beautiful Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel offers a delightful culinary journey inspired by the rich flavours of Sabah and Borneo.

Located at Kitchen, Level 8, the hotel’s signature dining venue, the buffet not only showcases an impressive spread of dishes but also offers diners a relaxing ambience complemented by a stunning view of the sea and the Kota Kinabalu skyline. The setting itself already creates a wonderful atmosphere for a meaningful Ramadan evening.

A Feast of Flavours

Guests can look forward to a generous selection of dishes that celebrate both local and international flavours. The buffet begins with a variety of appetisers and fresh salads, perfect to start the evening after breaking fast.

From there, diners can explore an array of flavourful hot dishes, carefully prepared by the hotel’s talented culinary team. Each dish reflects the diverse culinary heritage of Borneo, highlighting rich spices, comforting flavours, and traditional cooking techniques.

One of the highlights of the buffet is the live action stations, where chefs prepare dishes fresh on the spot. These stations not only add excitement to the dining experience but also showcase the impressive culinary skills of the Marriott team. Watching the chefs at work while enjoying freshly prepared dishes truly enhances the overall buffet experience.

Dining with a View

Another feature that makes this Ramadan buffet special is the location itself. Kitchen, located on Level 8, offers a beautiful sea view overlooking Kota Kinabalu, creating a relaxing and elegant dining environment.

As guests enjoy the wide selection of dishes, they can also take in the calming view of the ocean and the evening lights of the city. The ambience is warm, welcoming, and perfect for sharing meaningful moments during the holy month.

Taste of Borneo Dinner Buffet Details

⏰ 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

📍 Kitchen, Level 8 – Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel

Buffet Rates

Adult: RM178 nett

Children: RM89 nett

Adult: RM158 nett

✨ Children aged 6 – 12 years old enjoy 50% off

For Reservations, guests are encouraged to make early reservations due to the popularity of Ramadan buffets.

📱 +6016 969 1393

A Great Ramadan Discovery

With its impressive spread of dishes, exciting live cooking stations, and beautiful dining ambience overlooking the sea, the Taste of Borneo Dinner Buffet at the Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel is certainly worth exploring this Ramadan season.

For anyone looking to enjoy a delightful iftar experience with loved ones while discovering the flavours of Borneo, this buffet offers a satisfying and memorable option in the heart of Kota Kinabalu.

And as always, this is indeed a great discovery by Jomtaralets, a foodie and travel blogger you can trust.

 

With the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan, many hotels and restaurants begin showcasing special culinary experiences to celebrate the spirit of togetherness during iftar. 

One of the dining destinations that recently caught our attention is Swatches Restaurant at Fraser Place Puteri Harbour, located in the beautiful waterfront area of Iskandar Puteri, Johor.

Situated on Level 2 of Fraser Place Puteri Harbour, Swatches Restaurant offers a comfortable and welcoming dining environment, making it an ideal spot for families, friends, and colleagues to gather for a meaningful buka puasa experience. 

This Ramadan season, the restaurant presents its specially curated “Nusantara Ramadan Buffet 2026,” a culinary spread that celebrates traditional flavours inspired by the rich heritage of the Nusantara region.

The buffet, available until 20 March 2026, features an impressive variety of dishes ranging from appetisers and traditional Malay delicacies to international favourites and exciting live cooking stations.

A Refreshing Start with Appetisers and Seafood on Ice

Guests beginning their iftar journey will immediately notice the beautifully arranged appetiser section displayed at the central buffet area. Among the highlights are traditional ketupat served with various types of serunding, offering a nostalgic taste that many Malaysians enjoy during festive occasions.

Alongside these are selections of fresh ulam-ulaman, served with locally inspired sauces made from ingredients sourced in Malaysia. The refreshing herbs and vegetables provide a light and flavourful start before moving on to the heartier dishes.

Seafood lovers will also appreciate the Seafood on Ice station, which showcases a generous selection of fresh prawns, mussels, oysters, and clams. Chilled to perfection, this section offers a refreshing option for diners who enjoy the natural flavours of fresh seafood.

Adding even more variety to the buffet are fried favourites such as curry puffs, roti john, and other savoury bites, perfect for those who enjoy traditional street-style snacks.

Aromatic Hot Dishes and Local Specialties

The hot dishes section is where the buffet truly shines. Guests are welcomed by the enticing aromas of a wide variety of dishes commonly served during festive gatherings and special occasions.

The menu highlights a delightful combination of local Malaysian flavours and Chinese-inspired fusion dishes, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy. From rich curries to savoury stir-fried selections, each dish reflects the comforting flavours that many diners associate with traditional home-style cooking.

One standout dish that continues to impress is the restaurant’s Siput Sedut, a popular local delicacy. The dish is prepared with a well-balanced spice profile that is flavourful yet not overly spicy, making it enjoyable for many diners.

Exciting Live Cooking Stations

One of the most enjoyable aspects of the Nusantara Ramadan buffet is the presence of several live cooking stations, where chefs prepare dishes fresh right in front of diners.

The Pasta Station is a popular choice, especially among younger guests. Here, diners can watch the chef cook pasta directly in the pan while combining sauces and ingredients to create comforting dishes such as creamy Carbonara. The live preparation adds an interactive element to the dining experience while ensuring each plate is freshly made.

Another crowd favourite is the Live Murtabak Station, where a dedicated chef skillfully stretches the dough, adds the savoury filling, and folds it before cooking it on a hot griddle. The result is a freshly prepared murtabak with a crispy exterior and flavourful interior, served hot for diners to enjoy.

Right beside it is the Sup Kendi Berempah Station, where aromatic spiced soup is prepared on the spot. Diners can choose their preferred ingredients, and the staff will assist in preparing a warm bowl of comforting broth filled with rich spices and fragrant flavours—perfect for breaking the fast after a long day.

Grilled Delights and Signature Ramadan Highlights

No Ramadan buffet would be complete without grilled specialties, and the Live Grilling Station here features an assortment of marinated meats such as beef, chicken, and lamb, along with seafood selections like prawns and salmon. Watching the chefs grill these items fresh adds excitement to the buffet experience.

Another highlight is the Kambing Golek station, where beautifully roasted lamb is served together with fragrant Nasi Briyani, creating a satisfying combination that many diners look forward to.

Sweet Treats and Refreshing Beverages

To conclude the meal on a sweet note, diners can explore the colourful dessert display filled with jellies, bite-sized cakes, and traditional local kuih. The variety offers a delightful mix of textures and flavours, making it hard to resist sampling a little bit of everything.

A unique highlight of this buffet is the fresh sugarcane juice station, where sugarcane is pressed on the spot to extract its natural sweetness. This refreshing drink is rarely found in hotel buffets and adds a special touch to the dining experience.

A Value-for-Money Ramadan Dining Experience

Overall, the Nusantara Ramadan Buffet at Swatches Restaurant offers a satisfying selection of dishes that cater to different tastes while maintaining a strong focus on traditional flavours.

The buffet is priced at:

• RM188 per adult
• RM98 per child
• RM98 for senior citizens

With its comfortable dining atmosphere and extensive buffet spread, Swatches Restaurant at Fraser Place Puteri Harbour provides a wonderful setting for those looking to gather with loved ones and enjoy a memorable iftar experience.

For anyone seeking a well-rounded Ramadan buffet in the Iskandar Puteri area, this dining experience is certainly worth exploring.

Hidden within the peaceful neighborhood of Horizon Hills in Iskandar Puteri lies a charming bakery that is quietly winning the hearts of bread lovers. PanKobo Bakery is a Japanese-inspired bakery that offers freshly baked breads crafted with passion, patience, and authentic techniques.

For food explorers and café hunters, this bakery is truly a delightful discovery worth visiting.

A Japanese Baker Bringing His Craft to Johor

One of the highlights of visiting PanKobo Bakery is meeting Baker Tomo, a Japanese baker who has made Iskandar Puteri his home after marrying a local Malaysian. With years of baking knowledge and dedication to traditional techniques, Baker Tomo brings a touch of Japan’s baking culture to Johor.

Every bread produced at the bakery reflects his commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The breads are prepared using carefully selected ingredients and a natural fermentation process, giving them a distinctive texture and flavour that stands out from mass-produced bakery items.

Freshly Baked Breads Made with Love

PanKobo Bakery offers a wide variety of breads and buns that appeal to both locals and visitors. Each item is baked fresh daily, ensuring that customers enjoy soft textures and rich flavours in every bite.

One of the seasonal highlights currently available is their Hot Cross Buns, which are especially popular during the Easter season. These buns are made using a delightful combination of ingredients such as:

• Nutmeg
• Cinnamon powder
• Raisins
• Whipping cream
• Unsalted butter
• Fresh milk
• Lemon zest
• In-house natural yeast

The result is a soft, fragrant bun with subtle spices and a balanced sweetness, making it a comforting treat perfect for breakfast or tea time.

Beyond the Hot Cross Buns, visitors will also find a variety of other breads and pastries waiting to be discovered. From soft Japanese-style buns to unique baked creations, every item reflects the bakery’s dedication to quality baking.

A Cozy Bakery Worth Discovering

What makes PanKobo Bakery special is not only the bread but also the warm and welcoming atmosphere. The bakery offers a relaxed setting where visitors can browse through freshly baked selections while enjoying the aroma of bread coming straight out of the oven.

For residents in Iskandar Puteri and those exploring Johor’s growing food scene, PanKobo Bakery is a hidden gem that deserves a spot on your food discovery list.

Plan Your Visit

PanKobo Japanese Bakery

📍 5, Jalan Hijauan 3, Horizon Hills, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor Darul Ta'zim

🕖 Operating Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

📞 Contact Number: +6012-783 6168

Whether you are a bread lover, café explorer, or simply someone who enjoys discovering unique food spots, PanKobo Bakery offers a delightful experience that combines Japanese baking tradition with local hospitality.

This is indeed a great discovery by Jomtaralets, a foodie and travel blogger you can trust.

Ramadan is always a special time for gathering, reflection, and of course, indulging in meaningful iftar moments with family and friends. This year, LEGOLAND Malaysia Hotel elevates the Ramadan dining experience with its highly anticipated buffet themed Flavours of Nusantara 2026.

Located in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, this family-friendly destination is not just about theme park adventures it is also home to one of the most exciting Ramadan buffet spreads in the region.

A Family-Friendly Dining Concept

Before diving into the impressive food lineup, what truly stands out is the thoughtful family-oriented concept arranged by the hotel. Dining tables are set up with colourful colouring activities, allowing children — and even adults — to stay entertained while waiting for buka puasa.

For families with little ones, this initiative creates a more relaxed and enjoyable dining atmosphere. It’s a simple yet meaningful touch that enhances the overall Ramadan experience.

Over 200 Dishes Inspired by the Nusantara Region

The Flavours of Nusantara 2026 buffet features more than 200 dishes, celebrating the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Nusantara region.

Appetisers & Fresh Greens

Guests can begin their culinary journey with traditional favourites such as:

• Rojak Pasembur
• Rojak Buah
• Rojak Sotong Kangkung
• Pecel Jawa

At the centre court, a vibrant display of fresh ulam-ulaman and garden greens offers a refreshing and healthy start to the meal.

Hearty Local & Regional Hot Dishes

The hot dishes section showcases a wide variety of comforting classics and regional specialties, including:

• Kampung Fried Chicken with Herbs
• Kampung Chicken in Coconut Gravy
• Smokey Duck with Toasted Coconut & Curry Gravy
• Buffalo Kalio
• Boiled Beef Tendon in Turmeric Coconut Milk
• Paru Berlado Merah (Crispy Beef Lungs with Red Chili)
• Fried Beef with Green Chili Paste
• Lamb Kerutup
• Siput Sedut Lemak Putih
• Sautéed Prawns with Tapioca Leaves
• Fried Fish with Herbs

For those who enjoy Middle Eastern flavours, the Kabsah Rice with Whole Lamb (Kambing Golek) is a definite highlight and crowd favourite.

Live Stations That Steal the Spotlight

One of the most exciting elements of this buffet is its impressive lineup of live cooking stations.

Signature Brick Mee Tarik

Guests can witness the chef skillfully hand-pulling noodles before cooking them on the spot. Served with rich beef broth and assorted condiments, this authentic Mee Tarik experience is both interactive and delicious.

Satay Minang Station

Freshly grilled beef and chicken satay fill the air with irresistible aromas. Served with thick yellow gravy and keropok mawar, it’s a must-try for satay lovers.

Roti Canai & Murtabak Corner

Prepared fresh upon order, this station offers crispy roti served with chicken curry, dhal, vegetable curry, and pickled onions — guaranteeing freshness in every bite.

Charcoal Grill Section

The charcoal fire grill features a generous selection of items such as prawn skewers, otak-otak, chicken pepes, buffalo wings, red tilapia, beef, lamb, vegetables, potatoes, and assorted seafood.

A Buffet for All Ages

Adding a fun twist to the buffet is the giant Grana Padano cheese wheel, where creamy Mac & Cheese is prepared. This section is especially popular among children — making the buffet truly suitable for all age groups.

Japanese Corner Delights

The Japanese section further elevates the dining experience with offerings such as:

• Tonkatsu
• Unagi
• Yakitori Chicken
• Okonomiyaki
• Seafood Yakisoba
• Live Chicken Teppanyaki

Additional selections include Chawanmushi, Japanese Cheesecake, Mapo Tofu, Japanese Chilled Tofu, Eggplant Miso, and Spicy Edamame.

Dedicated staff are present to assist diners at the live stations, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Entertainment & Special Highlights

Beyond the extensive food selection, the buffet also includes:

• Live band performances serenading diners during iftar
• Weekend lucky draw sessions with exciting prizes

These added touches make the dining experience even more memorable for families and groups.

Pricing & Promotions

The buffet is priced as follows:

RM188 (Adult)

RM138 (Senior Citizen)

RM88 (Children aged 5–11)

RM228 (Adult)

RM178 (Senior Citizen)

RM128 (Children)

Guests are encouraged to check out the Early Bird Promotion for exclusive discounts.

A Sweet Ending

No Ramadan buffet is complete without desserts — and the impressive dessert display here is the perfect way to end the evening on a sweet note.