Cover Azfar Heri in his hometown during Raya 2024 (Photo: Instagram / @azfarheri)
Azfar Heri in his hometown during Raya 2024 (Photo: Instagram / @azfarheri)
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From vibrant bazaars to nostalgic home-cooked feasts, Azfar Heri’s Ramadan is a celebration of tradition, togetherness, and the joy of indulging in his ultimate festive favourites
For Azfar Heri, Ramadan is a time of deep nostalgia—a season wrapped in warmth, tradition, and the unmistakable joy of food that brings people together. Every bite he takes during this holy month is tied to a memory—of childhood excitement at the bazaar Ramadan, of family dinners filled with laughter, of late-night moreh sessions that stretch into the early hours. The dishes he craves are more than just food; they are comfort, they are celebration, they are the essence of Ramadan itself.
Whether he is hunting down his must-have bazaar Ramadan delights or winding down with a comforting cup of teh tarik, every moment is cherished and intentional. From bustling bazaars brimming with childhood favourites to the quiet joy of breaking fast at home, Azfar’s Ramadan rituals are steeped in familiarity and joy. And as he looks back on them, it is always with a full heart, knowing that these flavours, these experiences, and these traditions will forever be a part of what makes the month so special. Now, he shares them with you.
See more: Ramadan 2025: Late-night moreh spots in Klang Valley for the ultimate post-iftar treat
Above Tepung Pelita Paya Jaras (Photo: Twitter / @darimophotography)
Tepung Pelita Paya Jaras (Photo: Twitter / @darimophotography)
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When it comes to bazaar Ramadan, Azfar does not just have a favourite—he has a list. TTDI, Melawati, Putrajaya, Kelana Jaya, and his hometown’s Masjid Tanah in Melaka are his go-to spots. Why? “They are vast, diverse, and packed with options,” he says. These bazaars are among the biggest in Malaysia, making them a haven for anyone looking to feast on an impressive variety of dishes.
There are certain foods Azfar simply cannot leave without. Tepung pelita is a non-negotiable—it is refreshing, perfectly balanced between sweet and slightly salty, and light enough to be the ideal end to a meal. “It is super easy to eat, and after a whole day of fasting, it just hits the spot,” he shares. Then, of course, there is lauk-lauk Melayu, especially siput sedut. “You can never go wrong with them—they are as comforting as your mother’s hug after a long day.” Another must-have? Murtabak. Thick, hearty, and packed with savoury goodness—with its crispy, flaky outer layer and a filling that is both tender and packed with rich, aromatic spices— is the perfect way to begin your iftar. “There are so many types to choose from—chicken, beef—whatever you are in the mood for.” And, naturally, no trip to the bazaar is complete without a refreshing drink to break the fast. While he does not have a fixed go-to, he always picks up something cool and hydrating to quench his thirst.
Above Azfar Heri with his family (Photo: Instagram / @azfarheri)
Above Azfar celebrating the first day of Raya in his hometown (Photo: Instagram / @azfarheri)
Azfar Heri with his family (Photo: Instagram / @azfarheri)
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When he is back in Melaka, Azfar makes a beeline for Masjid Tanah’s bazaar Ramadan. For him, family time is the best time and remains his priority. There is one stall that he finds himself always returning to: Roti John Pak Hasan. The roti john there is unlike any other. Imagine a fluffy bun, its exterior kissed with a perfect amount of buttery crispness, giving way to a soft, pillowy interior. As you bite into it, a symphony of flavors erupts in your mouth. Savory meats mingle with sweet, caramelized onions, while a medley of rich sauces creates a taste that lingers long after the last bite. Each mouthful is a dance of textures and tastes, that keeps Azfar coming back year after year.
Read also: Ramadan 2025: The best restaurants, hotels and buffets in Klang Valley to break your fast at
Above Raya 2024 preparation in Azfar Heri's hometown (Photo: Instagram / @azfarheri)
Raya 2024 preparation in Azfar Heri's hometown (Photo: Instagram / @azfarheri)
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Despite the appeal of dining out, Azfar finds nothing quite as special as breaking fast at home with his family. To him, Ramadan is about togetherness, a time when people all over the world come together to share in the spirit of the season. “This is such a wholesome and precious time that you only get once a year” he says. And yes, we too believe that relationships feel much stronger, and it is all about kindness and good deeds during this time. His iftar spread is always centred around rice and lauk Melayu, often featuring dishes he has picked up from the bazaar that day. It is a slow, intentional meal—one that he takes his time with, enjoying each bite in the comfort of home.
The same rule applies to sahur. Azfar describes himself as a heavy sahur eater, with nasi and lauk always on the table. He believes in fuelling up properly before the long fasting hours ahead, and nothing does the job quite like a home-cooked spread.
Above Late night coffee at Pucks (Photo: Instagram / @ pucksandfriends)
Late night coffee at Pucks (Photo: Instagram / @ pucksandfriends)
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After iftar and tarawih prayers, there is moreh to look forward to. For Azfar, teh tarik is an absolute must. “Without fail, I need my teh tarik for moreh,” he says. Any mamak stall will do, as long as they serve up a strong, frothy cup of the good stuff. But when he is in the mood for a different vibe, Pucks Coffee at Pasar Seni is a favourite. “It is a great place to chill with friends. The energy is calm, vibey, and perfect for winding down.” Plus, the fact that it closes late makes it ideal for those looking to extend their moreh session.
Above Azfar Heri with his family on Raya day 2 last year (Photo: Instagram / @azfarheri)
Azfar Heri with his family on Raya day 2 last year (Photo: Instagram / @azfarheri)
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As Ramadan nears its final days, Azfar always makes his way back to his hometown in Melaka to spend time with his extended family. He values the opportunity to reconnect with his loved ones, and this remains his utmost focus throughout the holy month. Of course, no trip home is complete without a visit to Masjid Tanah’s bazaar Ramadan, where Roti John Pak Hasan awaits—one last taste of a tradition that makes his Ramadan all the more special.
Between his favourite bazaar finds, the comfort of home-cooked meals, and unmissable moreh rituals, Azfar’s Ramadan is a beautiful mix of food, family, and cherished traditions.
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About
Raisa, our Dining Writer, grew up in a multicultural household where food was more than just a meal—it was a way of expressing love. With Malay, Chinese, and Indian heritage, she was constantly surrounded by diverse flavors, home-cooked feasts, and the joy of sharing meals with family.
Her passion for food deepened during her studies in the UK, where she experienced vastly different dining cultures. A firm believer in the power of food to tell stories, she loves traveling, experimenting with local dishes, and uncovering hidden gems to share with others.
When she’s not writing about food, she’s likely munching on chips, chocolates, or whatever snack is within reach.
Work
Raisa covers all things food and drink, from emerging dining trends to timeless culinary traditions. She enjoys spotlighting new talent, discovering innovative menus, and sharing the best of the local dining scene with the world.
Follow her on Instagram @raisazulqaisar
