In the spirit of Ramadan, Birkin International Hotel warmly welcomed 35 children and 15 caretakers from Rumah Anak-Anak Yatim Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Al-Haj (RAYSAS) for a memorable iftar gathering at the newly-opened Birkin Kitchen. The event brought together the community to celebrate the joy of togetherness, kindness, and compassion.
RAYSAS, an orphanage founded on 13 March 2002 in Pantai Puteri, Melaka, was established to provide shelter, care, and education for orphans and underprivileged children. The RM2.57 million construction of the orphanage was supported by contributions from various donors, including MAIM, the Negeri Melaka Dakwah Trust Fund, and the proceeds from the DYMM Almarhum Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Al-Haj Charity Golf event. Built on waqf (endowed) land donated by Y.Bhg. Datuk H.M. Shah and his family, RAYSAS initially housed 100 residents and currently cares for 31 children under MAIM’s management. The institution’s mission remains strong in nurturing independent, competitive, and successful individuals.
The event kicked off with a beautiful azan recital by Haiqal Shamien, one of the children from RAYSAS, signaling the start of iftar, followed by the Maghrib prayers. This moment marked a deep connection between the children and their caretakers, as well as a reflection of the spirit of Ramadan.
Adding a touch of stardom to the evening, Malaysia’s beloved singer, Datuk Nora Ariffin, performed some of her most well-loved ballads, including ‘Dilema,’ ‘Desa Tercinta,’ and the classic ‘Suasana Hari Raya.’ Her soulful melodies filled the atmosphere with joy and inspiration, creating an unforgettable experience for the children and guests.
The hotel staff also shared a heartwarming performance of Raya songs, bringing festive cheer to everyone present. Additionally, a traditional Ghazal melody by Kumpulan Muzik Asli Dendang Irama added a cultural richness to the evening’s entertainment.
Simon Tan, General Manager of Birkin International Hotel, spoke about the hotel’s commitment to the community, stating, “At Birkin International Hotel, sustainability is about more than just our operations; it’s about our responsibility to the community. We believe in building meaningful, long-term relationships that go beyond just festive events. Our corporate social responsibility is a constant commitment to the people we serve.”
Ustaz Atqullah Muhammad, Manager of Rumah Anak-Anak Yatim Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Al-Haj, expressed his gratitude for the event, saying, “For many of our children, Ramadan is a time spent without the support of family. Events like this are incredibly meaningful, as they foster a sense of joy, belonging, and community. We are deeply thankful to Simon and the team at Birkin International Hotel for their generosity and compassion.”
Following the iftar, the Birkin International Hotel team presented the children with festive hampers, a thoughtful gift that added extra cheer to the occasion. The evening continued with a delicious spread of traditional dishes, as the children and their caretakers enjoyed the “Bufet Suasana Kampung” at Birkin Kitchen. This pre-festive spread brought back the warmth and nostalgia of home-cooked meals, with a focus on family and togetherness.
Signature dishes served during the event included “Grang Asam Tetel,” “Ayam Kampung Berempah,” “Paru Goreng Berempah,” “Perut Masak Lemak Rebung,” and the indulgent “Birkin Briyani.” Each dish was carefully prepared with a selection of aromatic spices that evoke the comforting flavors of home, making the dining experience even more special.
Birkin International Hotel remains dedicated to its role as a socially responsible hospitality leader, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable giving and supporting the community. Through events like this, the hotel continues to make a positive impact, not just during festive seasons, but all year round.
This iftar gathering truly encapsulated the spirit of Ramadan, showcasing the importance of sharing joy, compassion, and togetherness in a time of celebration and reflection.
