Prime spot: Muslims waiting to break fast at Pantai Bersih, Butterworth. — LIM BENG TATT/The Star
BUTTERWORTH: The view is breathtaking, the air is breezy and most importantly, it’s free.
Many Muslims are opting to have iftar along the beachfront for these reasons.
This growing trend not only fosters togetherness but also allows families to create meaningful moments during Ramadan while enjoying the scenic seaside view.
School clerk Mohd Fazrul Jaafar, 32, who was at Pantai Bersih getting ready to break fast with his family, said it was the first time he experienced iftar at a beach.
“I passed by this coastal road during the first few days of Ramadan and saw a lot of families breaking fast here.
“I decided to bring my family here to have the same experience,” said Mohd Fazrul, who is from Kulim, Kedah.
He shared that his wife had prepared three types of dishes and cold drinks for iftar.
“This is definitely a new experience for us while completing our obligations. The weather is good and we can observe the sunset while breaking our fast,” he said, adding the place is also convenient as it has facilities such as toilets and a surau near the food court.
A group of friends and family from Nibong Tebal was also spotted at Pantai Bersih.
Leading the group was Nur Naimah Mohamad Asri, who found the experience of breaking fast at a beach to be truly unique.
“It’s different from breaking fast at home or in a restaurant. The sea breeze, the sound of the waves and the beautiful sunset make it even more special,” said the 21-year-old factory worker.
She added that more people should explore an outdoor iftar experience, as it provides a refreshing change from the usual routine.
Nur Naimah added that her group had bought food from a Ramadan bazaar nearby on the way to the beach.
“We will bring home-cooked dishes next time,” she said.
Another favourite outdoor iftar location is along the coastal road of the Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway in Bayan Lepas.
Civil servant Nini Nur Nisa Muhammad Nasir, 25, who came with her friends to break their fast there, said they brought some home-cooked dishes from Sungai Petani.
“One of our friends working at the factory nearby gave us the idea to break fast along the coast,” she said.
“Breaking fast at an open area like this is very convenient and watching the sunset while doing so is a priceless experience.”
