KUALA LUMPUR – As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, residents in Mersing are being offered an opportunity to break their fast with affordable meals through the Bazar Ramadan Rahmah (BRR) programme, an initiative designed to help ease the financial burden on families amid increasing living expenses.
Set up at Taman Wawasan, the bazaar brings together local food traders offering a variety of traditional Malaysian dishes at significantly lower prices than usual. Popular items such as ayam gunting (fried chicken) and other local favourites are being sold starting from RM5, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers, particularly those from lower-income households.
The BRR initiative, launched on March 27, 2023, by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, has expanded significantly over the past three years, now operating in 116 locations nationwide, including nine in Johor. The programme is part of a broader government effort to help households manage expenses during Ramadan while simultaneously supporting local small and medium-sized food enterprises.
According to local traders, participation in the bazaar not only boosts sales but also allows them to connect with customers in a festive, community-oriented environment. Many expressed optimism that the initiative would continue to grow, providing both economic and social benefits during the holy month.
Visitors to the bazaar have expressed positive reactions, highlighting the convenience of affordable meals without compromising on variety and quality. While some families continue to prepare home-cooked meals for health or personal reasons, many others see the BRR as a practical option for iftar, especially for those balancing tight budgets.
Authorities overseeing the programme emphasised that the initiative is not merely a food market but a social support mechanism designed to foster community well-being. By keeping prices low, the bazaar ensures that even lower-income residents can participate fully in Ramadan traditions without financial stress.
The bazaar is expected to operate throughout the entire month of Ramadan, offering a wide range of traditional dishes, snacks, and beverages. Organisers encourage residents to visit early to experience the full selection, while also promoting a spirit of sharing and togetherness that embodies the essence of the holy month.
