By Corina Tan
The Singapore-Malaysia Vaccinated Travel Lane has been up and running for some time now, and this year, the Singapore tourism board has gone all out to prepare some interesting and unique Raya-themed offerings in hopes of enticing Malaysians to take a trip to experience the spirit of Raya during the long upcoming holiday weekend.
The festive season begins with Buka Puasa events at Geylang Serai. From traditional delights like beef rendang and sayur lodeh to unique delicacies like ‘Praffles’ which is a waffle and prata batter made by Foodtitude, and Yakult cake by Ole Ole. There are 22 food stalls to choose from at the Geylang Serai Ramadan bazaar which opens from now till May 8, 2022. Festive icon lights with a ‘Gotong-Royong’ theme will be displayed as you stroll along Sims Avenue and Changi Road.
Aside from this, Singapore’s Cinta Cahaya Ramadan makes a comeback campaign featuring project mapping that paints the walls of the resplendent Sultan Mosque alongside fairy lights in the prominent precinct of Kampung Gelam. The bustling nightlife and livening up atmosphere for Ramadan at the heart of Kampung Gelam makes it a must-see as you take a Walk Thru Souk’s Bazaar by Laloolalang with more than 20 food and beverage stalls offering traditional and fusion street food.
For other Raya delicacies, Bismillah Biryani Restaurant is a five-time winning Michelin Bib Gourmand Award establishment known for its dum-style biryani. Chef and owner, Arif Salahuddin, has created a healthier version of this classic dish with fresh ingredients omitting MSG, preservatives and additives while still making sure its authentic taste is preserved. The restaurant is also Anthony Bourdain-approved and serves signatures like the melt-in-your-mouth mutton seekh kebab and kulfi. For desserts, The Malayan Council Café serves Malay dishes with a twist of Western influence, bringing bold flavours and unique combinations for a palatable experience. Traditional desserts like Ondeh-Ondeh, Bandung Lychee and Cempedak Sago have been turned into cakes, while quirky combinations such as Mango Boba and Chocolate Ovomaltine seeks to tantalise experimental tastebuds.
Halal Bars in Singapore are also all the rage this season with refreshing mocktails at the Fairytail Bar by The Halal Mixologist. Singapore’s first halal rooftop gastro bar located right on top of D’hotel invites you to sip on handcrafted non-alcoholic cocktails while enjoying a bird’s eye view of Singapore’s downtown skyline. Famous for their unique mocktails, a special 3 to 4 course dinner Ramadan Menu will be offered this year with seasonal Ramadan mocktails like Robin Merah Jambu and Kurma Fairytail.
Other events happening at Kampung Gelam includes an out-of-the-ordinary theatrical walking tour with “Aminah in Kampung Gelam.” Makcik Aminah will be sharing stories of her olden days and fascinating tales of Singapore, complete with curated stories that reveal the culture, history and life values of Singapore in a fun and impactful way. This immersive experience for the whole family is one that should not be missed.
Ramadan workshops will also be conducted, showcasing handcrafted souvenirs that are rich in tradition, colourful history and cultural values in Kampung Gelam. Thoughtful gifts for loved ones can be personalised in this workshop series and include items such as leather ketupat coin pouches, incense, and mini Sajadah (prayer mat).
Prior registration for these workshops can be made here:
- Register for the Leather Keypouch Workshop by Crafune here.
- Register for the Incense Workshop by Sifr Aromatics here.
- Register for the Printmaking and Craft Workshops by Lokka Lekkr Makers Studio here.
With all the events and food waiting to be explored in Singapore, you may want to make plans to visit this Ramadan and Raya festive season.
Discover and stay updated with the latest happenings and Raya experiences in Singapore on Facebook. Stay updated about the processes and requirements for travelling to Singapore on https://safetravel.ica.gov.sg/
