By Vincent D’Silva

BANDAR PENAWAR: As dusk settles over Desaru and the call of Ramadan draws nearer, Four Points by Sheraton Desaru is inviting guests to embark on a gastronomic voyage across the nation with its Jelajah Rasa Malaysia Buffet Dinner, a celebration of faith, family and Malaysia’s richly layered culinary heritage.

Launched in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and Johor Year 2026, the buffet is more than a seasonal dining affair. It is a carefully woven tapestry of flavours drawn from every corner of the country, reflecting the stories, traditions and shared memories that bind Malaysians together at the iftar table.

“Tonight, we are delighted to present a culinary journey that celebrates the diverse food heritage of Malaysia,” said General Manager Ishak Yunus during the preview ceremony.

“Our buffet brings together classic and traditional dishes from all corners of the country, allowing guests to enjoy unique flavours that truly reflect our cultural diversity,” he stressed.

The theme, aptly titled Malaysian Taste Journey, is both a nod to national pride and a timely reminder that food remains one of Malaysia’s most powerful cultural ambassadors.

According to Ishak, the hotel hopes not only to welcome tourists but also to spotlight the nation’s heritage as a key attraction.

“We want to highlight the country’s unique culture and heritage as a major attraction, alongside our beautiful destinations,” he asserted.

At the heart of the experience is the culinary team led by Head Chef Qasim Isa, who has curated a menu steeped in authenticity and nostalgia. The spread features comforting classics such as Opor Ayam Kampung, Grilled Lamb Chop with Percik Sauce, Kacang Pool Kambing served with Benggali bread, and Chicken Mee Kolok, dishes that evoke memories of home kitchens and festive gatherings.

“I would like to invite you all to taste our special dishes, especially Opor Ayam Kampung, Kacang Pool Kambing with Roti Benggali, and Serawa Durian,” Ishak said, gesturing warmly to the buffet line. “These recipes have been specially selected and crafted to provide an authentic taste experience for all.”

No Ramadan table would be complete without dessert, and here the spread turns indulgent. Guests can look forward to traditional favourites such as Tapai Pulut, Tapai Ubi, Pengat Cempedak, Serawa Durian, and even a modern twist with Durian Brûlée, alongside an array of colourful Malay kuih that lend sweetness to the breaking of fast.

The evening’s significance extended beyond cuisine. The preview ceremony marked a proud milestone for the hotel, which was officially awarded its 4-Star Hotel rating by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC).

The certificate was presented by Saipol Anuar Abd Wahid, assistant senior Administrative officer MOTAC, in the presence of distinguished guests including Fauziah Misri, ADUN Bandar Penawar; Syed Ben Bella Al Habshee, Political Secretary of Pengerang Parliament; and Mohammad Nazrul, Director of Tourism Johor.

Set to be served at The Venue on the second floor, the Jelajah Rasa Malaysia buffet promises an atmosphere as inviting as its menu. The space will be adorned with colourful lights, ketupat decorations and traditional festive elements, while live band music provides a gentle soundtrack to the evening, enhancing the sense of celebration and togetherness.

True to the spirit of Ramadan, the buffet also carries a charitable dimension. Continuing a tradition from previous years, Four Points by Sheraton Desaru will donate RM10 from every adult buffet purchase and RM5 from each child or senior citizen ticket to selected charitable organisations.

“While enjoying delicious dishes, let us take this opportunity to contribute to those in need,” Ishak said. “Especially as the holy month of Ramadan approaches, it is important that we share our blessings.”

The Jelajah Rasa Malaysia Buffet will be available from 20 February to 19 March 2026, nightly from 6.30pm to 10pm. An early bird offer, valid until 18 February, is priced at RM108 nett per adult and RM54 nett for children and senior citizens.

Thereafter, the regular price stands at RM148 nett per adult and RM74 nett for children and senior citizens, with Club Marriott members enjoying a 10 per cent discount on regular-priced purchases.

As families gather and travellers pass through Johor’s southern shores this Ramadan, Four Points by Sheraton Desaru is positioning its table as a place where tradition meets generosity — and where, one dish at a time, Malaysia’s story is lovingly told.

As the sun slips below the horizon and prayers rise with the evening breeze, the table at Four Points by Sheraton Desaru becomes a quiet gathering of hearts as much as appetites. Here, flavours carry memories, and shared dishes soften the long day’s fast into moments of gratitude. In the warmth of breaking bread together, strangers become companions and traditions find new life.

This Ramadan, the journey ends not at the last spoonful, but in the gentle fullness of faith, family and belonging.

As the sun slips below the horizon and prayers rise with the evening breeze, the table at Four Points by Sheraton Desaru becomes a quiet gathering of hearts as much as appetites. Here, flavours carry memories, and shared dishes soften the long day’s fast into moments of gratitude. In the warmth of breaking bread together, strangers become companions and traditions find new life.