Left: A stall showcasing a variety of authentic Malaysian cuisine. Malaysian women at a stall (centre) and a woman sells soft tofu soaked in syrup. PICTURES: Joey Aguilar

By Joey Aguilar/Staff Reporter

Hundreds of expatriates yesterday thronged the fifth Malaysian Ramadan Bazaar which showcased authentic Malaysian cuisine.

A few Europeans, Chinese and Singaporeans were also seen queuing to try Malaysian delicacies like Mee Hoon Soto, Bubur Lambuk and Nasi Kerabu that were sold in many of the stalls in the annual event which was held in Hyatt Plaza from 2pm to 5pm.

A combination of beef and chicken with rice, the Bubur Lambuk was a hugely popular item.

Stalls also offered soft tofu soaked in syrup (using brown sugar), popularly known as “taho” in the Philippines.

Farhan Rashid, a committee member of the Malaysian Association Qatar (MAQ), described their cuisine as “a fusion of Chinese, Malay and Indian food”.

“It is unique and cannot be bought easily in Qatar, that is why we organised this bazaar,” he told Gulf Times.

Asked about the distinct taste of Malaysian food, he said it was because most of their dishes used coconut milk. “Coconuts are almost everywhere in our country,” he added.

One stall featured a variety of vegetables and fish stuffed with spicy ingredients, a hit with many Malaysian visitors.

The taste of food and spices from the northern and southern parts of Malaysia are quite different, noted Rashid who is a native of the north. “The southern dishes are spicier but food from the two regions tastes equally great.”

Popular delicacies included “sambal tempe” (sliced tofu), “frozen pompia” (stuffed vegetables), and Cek Mek Molek (potato stuffed with sugar), which literally means pretty lady.  

Ayam Percik, a special Malaysian grilled chicken marinated with herbs and spices, was also a favourite with many visitors.

Feroz Moideen, general manager of Hyatt Plaza, said it was difficult to find such a variety of food in any other country.

“This food includes a combination of tastes that makes it different,” said Moideen, himself a Malaysian.  

“When the Malaysian community members in Qatar hear about the Ramadan bazaar, they all come here and buy the food they want. It is not easy to find Malaysian food everyday,” he added.

Moideen has called on other expatriates to visit the next bazaar on July 26.

Ramadan bazaars are organised in many parts of Malaysia, according to Sohaimi Ahmad, third secretary at the Malaysian embassy. Traders sell various products besides food there.

“We want people in Qatar to see this activity and how it is being held in Malaysia,” he said.