The Mira Hong Kong hosts iftar together with Miramar Travel and the Turkiye Consulate

The Mira Hong Kong has hosted its 2nd-ever annual Ramadan Iftar Dinner on 26 February, reinforcing the city's efforts to position itself as a Muslim‑friendly destination and a regional hub for culturally inclusive hospitality. Building on the inaugural iftar hosted last year — the first of its kind staged by a luxury hotel in Asia's World City - the event was jointly organised with the Consulate General of Türkiye in Hong Kong and Miramar Travel.

Source: The Mira Hong Kong. VIPs gathered on stage at the 2026 Ramadan Iftar Dinner at The Mira including 12 Consuls General plus event co-hosts: Consul General of Türkiye in Hong Kong Kerim Sercan Evcin (front middle), GM of Miramar Travel Alex Lee (middle left), and Head of Hotels & Serviced Apartments of the Miramar Group, Alexander Wassermann (middle right). Consuls General in attendance are from Muslim‑majority nations across the Middle East and Asia, representing Egypt, Kuwait, KSA, Iran, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Bangladesh, Brunei, Malaysia and Indonesia, as well as Romania and Poland.

Hong Kong's Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, Cheuk Wing Hing said: "We are committed to further promoting Muslim tourism and facilitating halal certification, as outlined in the Chief Executive's 2025 Policy Address. Our goal is clear: to enhance Muslim-friendly services for our residents, and to position Hong Kong as a welcoming destination for Muslim visitors from around the world. Through sustained collaboration, we can strengthen Hong Kong's reputation as a vibrant, inclusive city and enrich its cultural tapestry with diversity." 

Alexander Wassermann, Head of Hotels & Serviced Apartments, Miramar Group, said: "It is a meaningful honour for The Mira Hong Kong to host a Ramadan Iftar Dinner once again as a continued commitment to providing a unique platform where cultures connect through hospitality, respect and shared experiences. This annual celebration not only honours the spirit of Ramadhan but also underscores The Mira's leadership in forging Muslim-friendly hospitality. 

"Leveraging on the prime location neighbouring with the Kowloon Mosque, and offering broad range of services ranging from halal Cantonese fine dining, halal wedding banquets to halal coffee breaks for meetings and events, our design-led, tech-forward property named Muslim Friendly Hotel of the Year by CrescentRating, continues to align our guest experience in newly-refurbished guest rooms with Global Muslim Travel Index identified trends so that The Mira Hong Kong remains a destination hotel of choice for Muslim leisure and corporate travellers, and a benchmark for inclusive hospitality in our city."

10 tips to seizing the opportunity with WhatsApp this Ramadhan

Souq concept art generated by Bing Image Creator.

 

Ramadhan represents a significant opportunity for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in Singapore, according to WhatsApp. With 65% of Singaporeans now messaging a business every week, messaging is the best way for people and businesses to get business done—from asking and answering questions to discussing products and finalising a purchase, the company said. 

Ten WhatsApp Business features to leverage include: 

- A full business profile

A complete WhatsApp Business profile with your description, category, address, and contact information instantly establishes credibility.

- Updated Ramadhan hours  

 Operating hours can change to accommodate iftar or prayer times. Updating business hours prevents frustration when customers send messages during non-operational times. 

- Automatic greetings  

An instant response ensures a customer’s message is acknowledged immediately, making customers feel valued even before you have had a chance to reply. To set up an automatic greeting message, go to the Tools tab and select Greeting message. Turn on Send greeting message to activate the feature. 

SMBs can also choose who receives the greeting by selecting Recipients and setting it to be sent to all customers or specific contacts.

- Sort the surge

Use Labels to instantly categorise chats by status (e.g., Paid - Ready for Shipping, Raya Hamper Enquiry, Iftar Menu) and add different colours to prioritise and manage increased volumes efficiently. Note that some businesses may now see Lists instead of Labels.

- Quick replies  

Stop typing the same answer repeatedly for frequently-asked questions like those related to pricing or delivery times. Create message shortcuts with Quick replies to maintain lightning-fast response times.

- Ramadhan catalogues  

Display all iftar packages, Raya hampers and limited-time bundles directly in the chat. A clear, visual catalogue lets customers shop and choose without leaving WhatsApp, leading to faster sales. And keep your products organised with Collections, so it’s easier for your customers to browse. 

- Flash sales

Customers love Status. Use it to create urgency and excitement by sharing limited-time discounts or last-minute iftar bundles.

- Click-to-WhatsApp ads  

Don't just generate chats—drive revenue. Utilise ads that click to WhatsApp to find high-potential customers on Facebook and Instagram.

- Meta Verified  

 Build confidence and authority with new audiences with a Meta Verified subscription. It not only safeguards brands against impersonation but also unlocks advertising and engagement tools. The verified badge can be prominently displayed across call tabs, business profile and context cards. 

- Business Broadcasts  

Send messages to multiple customers simultaneously. This capability can improve message response rates and strengthen customer relationships.

Explore limited-time offers in KSA's Red Sea and AlUla

Saudi, Welcome to Arabia, the consumer-facing brand of the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), has unveiled a new collection of travel deals for early 2026 as part of its global Ramadhan campaign, Embrace the Radiance of Ramadan Lights.

These limited-time offers provide exceptional value across Saudi's most iconic destinations, giving travellers broader access to night itineraries designed specifically for the season.

Source: Saudi, Welcome to Arabia. Sunlit moments unfold at AlUla’s Hegra (left) while a fire sets the scene for star-gazing (right).

Saudi, Welcome to Arabia and its partners are rolling out luxury-made-affordable Ramadhan offers across the Red Sea and AlUla. With over 35 curated packages, travellers can enjoy Ramadhan pricing across more than 12 properties. 

Guests can enjoy savings of up to 35% in spectacular natural settings, including at Banyan Tree AlUla, Our Habitas AlUla, Ashar Tented Resort, Chedi Hegra, and at the Shaden Resort. Those visiting the Red Sea can benefit from 20% savings at standout properties such as Desert Rock and Shebara, creating opportunities to experience restorative wellness, contemporary design, and unforgettable coastal and heritage-rich escapes.

In Ramadhan, Saudi adds an extra layer of warmth, beauty, and celebration to its destinations. Throughout Ramadhan, visitors to KSA can enjoy night markets, festive streetscapes, beautiful iftar (break fast) and suhoor (pre-dawn meal) settings plus opportunities for heritage exploration and adventure in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Diriyah.

Saudi Tourism Authority spokesperson Abdullah AlDakhil said: "Saudi welcomes travellers with an invitation to discover more and connect with the true essence of Ramadhan, a season defined by tranquility, reflection, and the warmth of shared moments. Across Saudi, cities come alive with Ramadhan lights, cultural traditions, and a unique atmosphere of serenity and joy. 

"This year, we are delighted to introduce a curated collection of seasonal luxury travel offers across Saudi's most iconic destinations, making it easier than ever for travelers to experience the beauty and spirit of Ramadhan in Saudi."

KSA hosted over 122 M visitors in 2025, and is advancing toward its goal of being among the top 10 tourism destinations.  

Explore

Deals and packages on the Visit Saudi website at https://www.visitsaudi.com/en/campaigns/ramadan-lights

Swiss Bear honours food operators and delivery riders this Ramadhan

This Ramadhan, Swiss Bear, a food solutions brand under Kerry Group that provides sauces and dressings, is recognising food operators and delivery riders across Kuala Lumpur for their essential role in ensuring iftar meals reach families and communities each evening. 

The brand observed that many food operators continue preparing dishes through sunset - the time of breaking fast - while delivery riders often break their fast on the move to ensure timely deliveries. 

Source: Swiss Bear. This Ramadhan, food riders will enjoy free meals as they break fast at participating locations in Kuala Lumpur.

In appreciation of their dedication, Swiss Bear, in partnership with selected food operators, will distribute complimentary meals to food riders at participating locations. These locations will also serve as designated spaces where delivery riders can break fast comfortably while collecting orders.

The public is encouraged to support the initiative through the following activities:

- Purchase meals from partner operators prepared using Swiss Bear sauces. 

- Follow Swiss Bear's Facebook and Instagram accounts to track the donation counter and the growing number of dishes contributed.

- Visit Swiss Bear's participating locations and leave messages to encourage community involvement. 

- Engage with campaign content across Swiss Bear's social media platforms, which will include videos, recipe features, and live streams. 

- Participate in the Shopee Raya Bundle promotion, where every purchase made from now until 15 March contributes to the final number of dishes donated.

Malaysian heritage cuisine shines at iftar at the Birkin International Hotel

Birkin International Hotel, a new coastal haven located in Klebang, Melaka offers guests the perfect blend of seaside serenity and the cultural charm of heritage. The hotel is set to welcome Ramadhan with the Gulai Kawah Tradisi Ramadan Buffet. 

Running from 27 February to 19 March 2026, this buffet showcases authentic Malaysian heritage cuisine, with a strong emphasis on traditional flavours and communal dining. Highlights include the fan-favourite kambing gulai kawah, alongside a spread featuring rusa golek, kambing golek, nasi Arab, ayam bakar tandoori, ayam panggang Maharani, ketam bunga masak lemak, murtabak tomahawk, ekor asam pedas, and sup sum-sum, a beef or mutton soup made with marrow-filled bones. 

"These festive promotions reflect our commitment to celebrating Malaysia's rich cultural diversity through food and meaningful experiences," said Kevin Lee, GM of Birkin International Hotel.

Details 

The Ramadhan buffet, available daily from 6:30 pm to 10 pm, is priced at RM205+ for adults. There is a Buy 10 Free 1 promotion as well. 

Call +6012-558 7295 or email reservations@birkinhotels.com for reservations and enquiries. 

Advance reservations are strongly recommended, and all promotions are subject to availability. Prices are subject to prevailing sales and service tax (SST).

A taste of tradition this Ramadhan

Source: Four Points by Sheraton Singapore, Riverview. Iftar buffet at Four Points by Sheraton Singapore, Riverview.

This Ramadhan, Four Points by Sheraton Singapore, Riverview invites guests to break fast over a spread inspired by kampung-style cooking. Returning by popular demand, the hotel's Kampung-Style Iftar Buffet celebrates the spirit of togetherness through familiar dishes that have long been part of family gatherings and festive evenings.  

Rooted in the simplicity of village life, kampung-style cuisine is defined by bold spices, slow-cooked recipes, and dishes meant to be shared. Priced at S$58 nett per person, the spread includes comforting staples such as bubur lambuk, accompanied by a variety of traditional condiments that complete the breaking of fast. 

Signature highlights include fragrant ayam lemak chilli padi, tangy ikan masak asam pedas, and crispy kampung ayam goreng. At the laksa live station, bowls of rich, aromatic coconut-based dish will be prepared on the spot. 

Guests can also enjoy a refreshing selection of drinks, including bandung, iced Milo, and blue lagoon longan. 

To conclude the meal, guests can indulge in a selection of traditional desserts, including assorted Nyonya kueh, a chendol DIY station, and the hotel's signature durian pengat. 

Details

27 February – 15 March 2026
Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays
6 pm – 10.30 pm (last entry at 9.30 pm)

Jubilee Ballroom, Level 4
Four Points by Sheraton Singapore, Riverview
382 Havelock Road, Singapore 169629

Advance reservations of at least one day prior required. Reserve online at https://sevn.ly/xyBu4k54 

+65 6349 4872 | WhatsApp +65 9837 3635 | eatery@fourpointssingaporeriverview.com

Enjoy 20% off the Iftar Buffet with promo code IFTAR2026 when booking directly via the official reservation platform. Terms and conditions apply.

The best Ramadhan videos 2025

Every year, brands come up with videos during Ramadhan to entertain. Here's a selection of the best.

Petronas imagines what could happen when a son has to do Raya (Eid) visits on his mum's behalf, meeting relatives who are strangers, and relatives ask "whose child are you?" In Malay with English subtitles.

Source: Petronas YouTube channel. Anak Siapa Ni? is the Raya video for 2025.

Anak Siapa Ni? https://youtu.be/G7f4-MUTYgc?si=ljywLs1aS9e3DALg (5.47)
#PassionateAboutProgress, #AnakSiapaNi

- 

BHPetrol went for a Raya wedding with a twist, bringing home some of the realities we all face. In Malay with English subtitles.

Hingga Hujung https://youtu.be/94KAQsT4rQA?si=2o3EF-RIj-KJtpny (4.55)
#bhpetrol #bhpetroluntuksemua #ramadan2025 #datukrahimrazali #mierulaiman #fatimahabubakar #saraali #nabilahuda

- 

At the Watson's YouTube channel, Melati was expecting her mum Rokiah to marry Ramli, but is introduced to Ropie instead. Three figures climb out of the TV to settle who will be the better husband. A singing emcee keeps the plot on track. In Malay with English subtitles.

Raya Terunggul Watsons https://youtu.be/2sR1zIxqtrs?si=fMR3M-BLje9HRJ9r (6.59)
#WatsonsRaya2025, #WatsonsRayaTerunggul, #ShaheizySam, #KartinaAziz, #DatukYusofHaslam, #GOAT

-

Spritzer Water came up with a clever way to showcase the brand for Raya, with a message for health as well. In Malay.

Raya Lebih Bermakna (Mana Adam?) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UY-ctiOqjk (5.31)
#SpritzerSparklingRaya, #RayaLebihBermakna, #3Generasi3Resipi 

-

Heavier topics are tackled:

Zain's video is all about hope. In Arabic.

سجلنا حضور https://youtu.be/qJuGsTvNvZA?si=kq3KQJcPrBVqXgHf (2.19)

-

Lighter topics offer entertainment:

Zalora has an untitled video all about fashion secrets. In English.

https://youtu.be/v7nJ-QGAvy0?si=qWygqsGhNQ9d6JZo (1.42)
#Zaloraya

-

When your Japanese son-in-law and his dad come to visit, how do you bridge the cultural gap? FamilyMart Malaysia's take is funny and heartwarming. In Malay with English subtitles.

Operasi Raya 2025 https://youtu.be/GHQYnnG5KSc?si=0U3DMPyQDZ9LltfB (8.07)
#OperasiRaya #RayaBersama 

-

Two brothers take the train together with their wives in KTMB's video. During the journey, the younger reads a love letter his brother wrote in school...In Malay with English subtitles. KTM is Malaysia's rail system.

Rahsia Along https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MTUJ4qbIENo (7.54)
#RahsiaAlong, #KTMBRaya, #KTMB140tahun, #DestinasiSyawal

-

Then there are the catchy music videos:

A musical way to list rituals and values with kids singing refrains. In Arabic.

كليب رمضان ما احلاك https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPuhYsju_Fg (3.31)
Hashtags: مصطفى_المومري #اليمن #كوميدي #كليب #رمضان #انشوده #اغنيه #مصطفى_المومري #كوميدي #اليمن #السعوديه #الامارات #الكويت #قطر #مسلسلات كليب رمضان _ 2025 حصرياً

-

Ithra (the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture) piles on the colour and music in an Eid song in Arabic. 

نطير فرحًا https://youtu.be/vU-EXD_xBP0?si=9gCY89dRyaRmn9iW (2.02)
Hashtags: عيد_إثراء إثراء

-

Nasheed videos included:

Mesut Kurtis and Maher Zain have a new Arabic/English video.

Never Forget https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S3OOXyw3V1Q (5.15)

-

Rollercoaster of emotions:

An origin story from RHB Group about a charity that provides Eid clothing to those who need them. In Malay, with English subtitles.

Sulaman Kebersamaan https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=leyiu2CXDi0 (4.56)
#BersamaSamaMenempaKemajuan

-

A daughter learns about the gritty reality outside her world with this video from Gardenia. In Malay with English subtitles.

Kongsi Kasih https://youtu.be/h82F9JbW_6U?si=eIT9FaZFXI-wMFtL (2.18)
#gardenia, #GardeniaKL, #GardeniaCares, #kongsikasih 

-

An acceptance letter, but no money. An eldest child, and sacrifice in a video from ASNB.

Amanah Sulung https://youtu.be/IUP0zUSSLNY?si=SokUktAP_BoALuuD (6.00)
#ASNB #PNB

-

Another tearjerker, from Bright Cow. A child is filled with despair when someone else accidentally destroys the milk he was going to bring home. In Malay.

Kasih Ahnaf https://youtu.be/0gqiT5MmBNw?si=s5nbiGPxTLy-n-_D (6.54)
#KasihAhnaf #CukupAdaMeriahRaya #BrightCow #ProdukKeluaranFGV

-

A powerful story about misunderstandings and regrets, and sibling rivalry from Radio Televisyen Malaysia.

Duit Raya dah Berapa? https://youtu.be/hhtB3RXJzrA (11.11)

- 

Komuniti Dakwah Tarbiah has a video about a distant father. 

Tunggu Abah https://youtu.be/ghE1-DGA4BA?si=1XAVikKVrsyLbjGH (10.09)
#bersamabudayakandakwah, #saifulapek, #saiful, #apek

Hashtags: #AIDILFITRI2025, #FilemRaya2025, #IklanRaya, #IklanRaya2025, #Ramadan2025, #Ramadhan2025, #Raya2025, #RayaFilm2025, #SalamAidilfitri, #SelamatHariRaya, SelamatHariRayaAidilfitri, #ShortFilmRaya, #videoraya2025 

Taobao organises first Raya sale in Malaysia

Source: Taobao Malaysia Instagram page. Duit Raya is up for grabs on Wednesdays in March.

Taobao Malaysia is ushering in its first-ever sales campaign dedicated to the Ramadhan and Raya season. Running throughout March, the month-long campaign features promotions, daily free shipping vouchers, and curated festive essentials.

Following the successful introduction of its English interface in September last year, Taobao Malaysia continues its commitment to making the platform more accessible to local users with tailored shopping solutions and promotions via the Raya campaign.

Jess Lew, Country Head of Taobao Malaysia said: "We are thrilled to celebrate one of our country's biggest festive moments together with our first-ever Raya campaign. We have prepared an abundance of promotions to make it easier and more rewarding for our customers to shop for their festive needs. With the successful implementation of the English interface, we can further enhance the shopping experience, ensuring that everyone can easily access the Taobao platform and shop effortlessly."

The Last Call Raya Sale will be held from 23 to 31 March.

On top of these shoppers have the chance to grab a limited-time offer, and an RMB35 voucher (equivalent to RM21) to enjoy free shipping with no minimum spend required during this promotion period. For first-time Taobao shoppers, deals for as low as RMB1 (equivalent to RM0.62) are up for grabs. 

Taobao Malaysia is also introducing the Spend & Win Duit Raya promotion. Shoppers stand a chance to win up to RMB50 (equivalent to RM30) in duit Raya every Wednesday in March at 12 pm when they make a purchase, with 100 winners per day. The duit Raya will be in the form of a cashback amount, and equivalent to the amount shoppers spend, capped at RMB50 (equivalent to RM30).

"We hope to build a more holistic shopping environment with the promise of delivering our biggest promotion in Malaysia ever. We believe Malaysians will be able to save more and enjoy more this festive season," said Lew.

Explore

The Taobao app is available to download on both the Apple App Store and Google Play. 

Watch the associated video at https://www.tiktok.com/@taobao.malaysia/video/7478181353075313927

*Platform rules will prevail over the specific promotion details.

A traditional route to charity with Qalby Etmaan

The Qalby Etmaan programme has launched clay donation boxes for its eighth season in line with the national Year of Community. 

The boxes are made by Emirati potters and artisans locally, and packaged in environmentally-friendly burlap and recycled paper. Packed by humanitarian institutions and volunteers, such as the UAE Red Crescent, Zayed Foundation for Charitable and Humanitarian Works, and Khalifa Foundation for Charitable and Humanitarian Works, each box will be delivered at no cost.

This initiative aims instil the concept of goodness is within everyone's reach, simplifying charitable acts and emphasizing the importance of everyone's contribution to the community, while highlighting the profound impact their donations can have. The donation boxes also seek to revive tradition in the age of digitisation, especially with the decline in the use of cash.

Funds collected will be used to plant 100,000 date palms, with date sales directly supporting orphaned children in Gaza over the long-term.

Source: Qalby Etmaan. A clay donation box.

The boxes will be broken open on March 25, coinciding with the 25th day of Ramadhan, and the clay will be mixed with soil and used to improve soil quality and fertility.

Over 5,000 Clay donation boxes will be distributed, with 10 boxes containing free tickets for winners to attend the filming of the next season of the Qalby Etmaan program.

Details

The clay donation boxes will be available at multiple distribution points, including the Qalby Etmaan online store, Hamad Store, ADNOC fuel stations, and UAE Red Crescent kiosks in shopping malls.

To contribute to Qalby Etmaan projects and initiatives, visit https://www.emiratesrc.ae/Ghaith/Home.aspx

The Qalby Etmaan programme is available on YouTube, Abu Dhabi TV, and the Abu Dhabi TV app at:
7 pm UAE time | 6 pm KSA time

GAC completes Ramadhan charity drive in Dubai

GAC, known for its high-performance vehicles, has hosted a charity initiative in Dubai during Ramadhan. The company distributed 300 food boxes to local labour groups, reflecting the brand's commitment to giving back to society and strengthening bonds with the region's consumers. 

Two GAC M8 and two GAC GS8 vehicles provided transportation to key locations. GAC representatives distributed 30 food boxes to mosque workers at a local mosque, while 270 food boxes were given to labourers at a dormitory. 

 

Source: GAC. GAC strengthens community bonds with Ramadhan charity drive in Dubai. Wang Shunsheng, VP, GAC International, joined volunteers at the dealership to pack food boxes, reinforcing the company's hands-on approach to community integration. 

Relive kampong days with the Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium this Ramadhan

This Ramadhan, the halal-certified Atrium Restaurant at the Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium invites diners to to savour a culinary journey reminiscent of rustic kampong days. 

Source: Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium. The Atrium restaurant is serving a kampong-style Ramadhan buffet this year.

Sample oxtail soup, terong sambal balado (eggplant and vegetables), lemak siput sedut (mud snails in coconut gravy), stir-fried sotong with sambal hijau, ayam masak merah kerisik, paru belado (fried beef lungs tossed in stir-fried red chili sambal), cucur udang (prawn fritters), and more. Save room for dessert with kuih bahulu, bingka serikaya (Nyonya kuih), goreng pisang, and other sweet or savoury treats.

In addition to these Ramadhan exclusives, the Atrium is reintroducing last year's Ramadhan barbecue feast for dinner, featuring otah-otah, honey chicken wings, sambal squid, and grilled lamb chop. The whole baby lamb (available on weekends only), roast lamb leg and roast beef ribeye (available on weekdays only) are also making a return.

For seafood enthusiasts, indulge in a variety of treats including salmon sashimi, Australia black mussel, baby abalone, baby rock lobster, and Irish oyster (available for weekend dinner only).

Each receipt-holder is entitled to a lucky draw with vintage games like chapteh, five stones or pick-up sticks as prizes. IHG One Rewards members receive an extra spin per receipt. An end-of-Ramadhan lucky draw offers the chance to win prizes such as tickets to Universal Studio Singapore and hotel stays in Bali, Malacca, Kuala Lumpur, South Korea, and more.

Details

Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium, Level 4

From now to 10 April 2024

Lunch: 12 pm – 3 pm (last order: 2:30 pm) 

Mon – Fri: S$94++ per adult
Sat – Sun: S$98++ per adult

Dinner: 5.30 pm – 9.30 pm (last order: 9 pm) 

Mon - Thurs: S$118++ per adult
Fri - Sun: S$128++ per adult

Buffet promotion: 1-for-1 for adults

Send questions via WhatsApp: +65 9114 0258 or call +65 3138 2530
Reserve online at https://www.tablecheck.com/shops/holidayinn-atrium-atrium-restaurant/reserve

Discounts from Scotch-Brite for Ramadan and Raya

Scotch-Brite has presented kitchen sponges, scourers and cloths to meet the demands of the one-month Raya festivities. The products are designed to deliver exceptional cleaning performance, making the post-celebration clean-up both easy and convenient.

Source: 3M/Scotch-Brite. Cleaning support for Ramadhan and Raya.

"Innovation drives us at 3M, where our Scotch-Brite line is renowned for simplifying cleaning and improving efficiency. As Hari Raya approaches, the Scotch-Brite brand stands ready to assist everyone in creating a clean and festive atmosphere effortlessly. Whether washing dishes or tidying up for guests, the Scotch-Brite range of products allows you to focus on what truly counts – spending quality time with family members," shared Stephanie Ng, Category Development Marketing Manager for the Scotch-Brite brand, 3M Malaysia and Singapore.

The highlighted products include the Scotch-Brite Tough Clean Antibacterial Scrub Sponge, the Scotch-Brite Easy Clean Antibacterial Scrub Sponge, the Scotch-Brite Sponge Cloth, Scotch-Brite Tough Clean Scrub Pad* and Stainless Steel Spiral Ball*.

Customers can enjoy discounts of up to 40%** on selected Scotch-Brite products purchased at the 3M official Lazada and Shopee stores*** or at selected leading physical retailers near you until 30 April 2024.

*Scotch-Brite® Tough Clean Scrub Sponge/Pad and Stainless Steel Spiral Ball product range may scratch. Test first in an inconspicuous area and allow it to dry to verify no surface damage. Not for aquarium use.

**Terms and conditions apply. While stocks last, 3M reserves the right to modify or cancel this offer at any time without prior notice. 

***Lazada and Shopee (Malaysia); Lazada and Shopee (Singapore)

Rockit introduces Ramadhan promotions

Rockit is offering limited-edition gift boxes for Ramadhan. Each box contains two tubes of of the snack-sized apples and a Ramadhan activity calendar. The boxes are available in store and online across the GCC.

Source: Rockit. Ramadhan greeting, meaning 'a generous Ramadhan'.

Ramadhan is one of the peak sales seasons for the apple brand, with sales across the Middle East jumping over 30% year on year (March 2023 vs 2022).

Rockit Market Manager for the Middle East Ziad El Chawa said Rockit aims to enrich the lives of its consumers: "Creating healthier gifting options and leveraging consumer occasions forms a key part of our sales and marketing strategy, and this year we're offering families a fun, creative and informative way to celebrate together during this holy month.

"Our limited-edition Ramadhan giftbox includes a special 30-day advent calendar packed with useful activities – including fitness challenges, mathematical equations and fun general information – to help families educate and engage with their children," he said.

Rockit Marketing Executive for the Middle East Suha Dassouki  added that Rockit is celebrating Ramadhan with online activities. "Our GCC social media followers also have the opportunity to win one of 40 air fryers throughout the Ramadhan period," Dassouki said.

Criteo: Taking on advertising during Ramadhan in 2023

Source: Criteo. Malaysia had two peaks in shopping over Ramadhan whereas Singapore was largely unaffected.

Criteo, the commerce media company, has shared advice on how to capitalise on commerce
opportunities during Ramadhan this year. 

The company notes that consumers are excited to resume their daily activities post-pandemic, and would like to go back to their old ways of celebrating festivals with their families and friends. However, inflation and the rising cost of living are impacting consumer behaviour.

Ramadhan occurred 2 April – 1 May in 2022. Based on Criteo's retail data from last year’s Ramadhan*, initial online sales in Southeast Asia saw a 19% increase in early April 2022 compared to the last two weeks of March 2022. Sales figures continued rising during Ramadhan until approximately one week before Eid (early May) across markets in the region.

 Indonesia experienced the sharpest increase in sales, at 74%, on April 20, 2022. Indonesia saw increasing sales which began around March 23, indicating that Indonesians might have been shopping to prepare for Ramadhan. Indonesia saw a spike of 68% a week before Eid.

 Malaysia witnessed two peaks, on 4 April (a double day sale, 4.4) and 22 April respectively. Malaysia had a 35% increase six days before Eid in retail sales.

 Singapore consumers continued with their usual shopping habits, suggesting that their retail habits remained largely unchanged even during Ramadhan. However, both Indonesia and Malaysia are Muslim countries, whereas Muslims are a minority in Singapore.

Apparel & Accessories was the top performing product category and saw a 30% increase in sales during Ramadhan. Other product categories that performed well were Health & Beauty, Home & Garden and Electronics, which all saw an 18% increase in retail sales right before Eid. Additionally, travel sales saw a general increase and peaked (+44%) four days before Eid celebrations. This might be expected as people want to travel home to gather with their family and friends for the celebration, Criteo noted. 

Ramadhan also saw a change in the patterns of online shopping, especially in Indonesia and
Malaysia:

 Online sales at night saw a general positive trend that started from 19:00 (Indonesia), 20:00
(Malaysia) and continued till the morning.

 Online shopping before dawn 04:00 – 05:00 (Indonesia), and 05:00 – 06:00 (Malaysia) saw the
highest change during Ramadhan as compared to the normal days’ performance (March 1 – 30). This ties in with people being up before dawn for suhoor, the pre-dawn meal.

 Decreased sales events during iftar (breaking of fast) 18:00 – 19:00 (Indonesia), more than
on regular days (no requirement to eat at sunset).

 12:00 – 13:00 in both countries stands out as the time with the highest number of sales during
the day. Consumers were shopping more as they were fasting during the lunch hour, instead of having lunch, Criteo noted.

“With inflation being at the forefront of the mind of consumers coupled with the change in consumer
behaviour during Ramadhan, it is vital for marketers to rethink their advertising strategies in order to
maximise their outreach across various platforms,” said Taranjeet Singh, Criteo's MD for South APAC. 

“Last year’s data revealed a change in the patterns of online shopping during Ramadhan, with an increase in online sales at night and before dawn. Marketers should take note of these trends and
ensure that their advertising strategies are tailored to the specific times when consumers are most active online.”

Criteo has three tips that will enable retailers to capitalise on opportunities for Ramadhan 2023:

 Rise of commerce media – commerce media is being positioned as the 4th wave of digital
advertising and has the power to reach and engage consumers where they’re actively browsing
and buying. According to McKinsey, commerce media is a new form of advertising "that closes the loop between media impressions and commerce transactions to improve targeting, provide new audience insights, and deliver more relevant and valuable experiences for consumers."

Criteo’s Rise of Savvy Shopper Study* shows that 71% of global shoppers are spending more time online to search for the best offers and values before making a purchase. As shoppable moments can happen in nearly any environment, emerging environments such as retail media will continue gaining traction in 2023. Savvy retailers will need to continue expanding their media offerings to own their end-to-end customer journey, and marketers will keep investing in retail media because it works.

 Understanding the optimal timings – shoppers are still finding ways to buy what they love,
regardless of inflation. Consumers are spending more on non-negotiables like mortgages or food
and have developed a more forward-thinking mindset that accelerated some purchases, such as buying
essential items in bulk to get more value for their money. 

At the same time, a majority are still purchasing the goods and experiences they want most. Nearly three quarters (74%) of consumers globally said they’re spending the same or more on personal care/health and beauty products, followed by apparel and accessories (65%), consumer electronics (63%). Marketers should take note of the change in the pattern of online shopping during Ramadhan, especially the vital hours where sales generally increase, to tap into the spending habits of consumers. 

 Incorporating quality and loyalty programmes - despite saving money being top of mind,
consumers believe that deals should not come at the expense of quality. Almost all (91%) global consumers chose product quality as the biggest factor influencing purchase decisions, ahead of free shipping (90%) and discounts and coupons (84%). 

They also value the alignment with brand values such as ecofriendliness and loyalty programmes. Marketers can tap on this by ensuring that their
products are top notch and creating loyalty programmes that motivate consumers to continue
purchasing from them, Criteo said.

*Methodology for Ramadhan data and The Rise of Savvy Shoppers

 All insights represent the organic events from partners and are agnostic of any Criteo attribution.

 Times reported are local times, (i.e., 7 hours added to UTC timestamp to the events retrieved from Indonesian retailers)

 Retail data is indexed per each partner and then aggregated by taking the mean. 

 Each insight is backed by at least five partners in the given market (country/region-vertical). 

 Southeast Asia is defined as Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Vietnam and Thailand for producing the product category and travel trends in order to reach a minimum sample size.

 Criteo surveyed 13,829 consumers in Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea,
Spain, the UK and the US for The Rise of Savvy Shoppers. The field work took place between November 20 and December 13, 2022.

Petal Ads gives back this Ramadhan in MENA

Petal Ads, formerly known as HUAWEI Ads, has introduced a Ramadan Ad Campaign bundle. 

Through Q123, the Petal Ads mobile ad platform for publishers, advertisers and marketers will provide businesses with premium, exclusive ads spots on Huawei's own media, including AppGallery, HUAWEI Video, HUAWEI Music, Petal Search etc.), Each media property has over 100 million monthly active users (MAUs), guaranteeing high viewability.

In addition to Huawei's own media, Petal Ads provides extra coverage within the major third-party apps and media in the MEA region. As of December 31, 2022, Petal Ads has cooperated with advertisers spanning 200+ industries, with more than 53,000 apps worldwide integrated in an Ads Kit. 

AppGallery will also launch a Ramadan Special Collection, showcased under the Featured Tab, offering users quick access to Ramadhan and Eid-related apps. If advertisers create an AppGallery Campaign assignment, their apps will be displayed in this collection within their respective subcategories and ranked according by bidding outcomes.

Last year's Ramadhan campaign by Petal Ads resulted in advertising investment in the region growing by 447%, while the number of active advertisers doubled. 

Source: Petal Ads. Petal Ads gives businesses superior ad experiences this Ramadhan. Petal Ads' in-house Data Management Platform (DMP) allows customers to reach desired audiences precisely, by targeting users based on their location, demographics, and interests, while complying with users' privacy preferences and consent around consuming Ramadhan-related content.

In-app shopping habits have become mainstream in the Middle East and Africa and e-commerce merchants have already geared up and are ready to increase their orders. During Ramadhan 2022 the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region's total user traction surged by 53%, Petal Ads said. 

And according to a survey conducted by AdColony in the UAE, 63% of people prefer using apps to shop during Ramadhan. The survey also found that 66% of respondents said they bought products after seeing the advertisements.

William Hu, MD, Huawei Consumer Business Group, Middle East and Africa Eco Development and Operation, stated: "Petal Ads is constantly helping businesses connect more effectively with users, during the month of giving, by offering a unique audience and using advanced targeting. We make our ads affordable and adaptable to different markets while prioritising user privacy. 

"Our ads reach users anytime, anywhere, creating a smarter and more engaging era for mobile advertising. We'll keep using the latest AI, machine learning, and big data advancements to expand our platform."

Petal Ads is Huawei's advertising platform. It distributes ads with pinpoint precision to users throughout the whole Huawei ecosystem and beyond, maximising the effectiveness of any advertising budget. Viu and ChicPoint are shining illustrations of how Petal Ads delivers results. Petal Ads' capabilities has helped Viu, an online streaming service that delivers premium content on-demand, connect with a larger audience and facilitated its 47% business growth for 2022 on the HUAWEI Ecosystem in 2022 across MENA.

Petal Ads also supported cross-border mobile e-commerce platform ChicPoint's launch campaign in the Gulf region (KSA, the UAE, and Kuwait) with a suite of promotional features on AppGallery, including feature cards, top banner cards, and rankings. ChicPoint has since boosted organic downloads and increased monthly revenue by 40%.

Details

Send enquiries to adsmea at huawei dot com.

Help wanted for Project Goodwill Aid Hari Raya Drive, Raya child sponsorship

Volunteer group Project Goodwill Aid (PGA) is bringing back a number of Ramadhan initiatives this year, including the PGA Hari Raya Drive 2023 and an invitation to sponsor a child for Hari Raya (Eid).

The Singapore non-profit performs acts of charity year-round, but has seasonal activities during the month of Ramadhan. The group's Hari Raya Drive 2023 will involve the distribution of a festive gift set and green packets.

Source: PGA. PGA is accepting money and goodies for distribution to the needy for Hari Raya 2023.

PGA is asking for:

- Contributions in kind, of any type and amount of halal-certified Raya goodies

- Monetary donations to be given as green packets (duit Raya)

- Prepared green packets filled with any amount

Donations will be made up into gift sets comprising three jars of cookies, two bottles of crackers, a 1.5 l bottle of a soft drink, S$10 NTUC voucher, and a green packet containing an unspecified amount. 

Contributions can be dropped off at any one of six collection points. Please contact PGA at 8613 1242 regarding bulk contributions. Contributions are accepted till April 15.

Source: PGA. PGA is calling for donors to sponsor one of 50 needy children at S$100 per child.

The Hari Raya Special campaign for 2023 involves going on a shopping trip for festive clothing and accessories with one or more children during Ramadhan, with the sponsor spending S$100 per child. PGA has identified 50 underprivileged children as beneficiaries this year. Activities begin from 8 April, and end 20 April. Please indicate interest by 20 April via PGA's social channels, or via WhatsApp.

Details: 

Monetary donations can be given through scanning the QR code. Transfers can also be made via PayNow to +65 8613 1242.

Please contact PGA at +65 8613 1242 via WhatsApp with questions. For more details visit PGA's Facebook page, Twitter, or Instagram.

Ramadhan talent competition in KSA focuses on Quran, adhan

Source: Syaq.

Over 40,000 people from 80 countries have entered Scent of Speech (عطر الكلام), a global talent competition focused on reciting the Quran and delivering the adhan (أذان الصلاة).

Organised by the KSA entertainment authority, the competition explores different cultures through the diversity of performance. The first-place winner for Quran recitation receives US$1.3 million, while the top prize for the adhan category is US$533,000.

The competition is broadcast on official state TV during Ramadhan. A total of 36 candidates reached the finals from Britain, Canada, KSA, Iraq, Egypt, Algeria, Iran, Malaysia, Indonesia and Turkey: 18 in each category.

A panel of 13 international judges will decide on the winners.

Details:

Watch

IKEA Singapore: Start small this Raya

Sustainability is the theme this Ramadhan at IKEA Singapore. The company's sustainable approach covers cotton - no optical brighteners, and from sources using less water, chemical fertilisers and pesticides - as well as energy-efficient LED bulbs, rechargeable batteries, and easily-renewed bamboo materials.

Source: IKEA website. HEMBJUDEN is designed for Ramadhan.

The annual Ramadhan collection, HEMBJUDEN, is inspired by Islamic geometric art and features cushion covers, lanterns, serving plates, curtains, rugs and more.

Source: IKEA website. Raya (Eid) goodies include from left: dendeng, meat jerky; cookies, and cakes.

Up to 2 May, IKEA will hold a Raya bazaar at the Swedish food market: halal cookies, dendeng and cakes. The cookies are available in the following flavours:

- Cranberry oatmeal 200 g, S$7.90

- Pecan nut chocolate chip 220 g, S$7.90

- Cheese bangkit 240 g, S$7.90

- Cranberries pineapple ball 340 g, S$8.50

Two flavours of dendeng are on sale, beef or spicy chicken, at S$24.90 for 450 g, while there are three options for the cakes:

- Original layer cake 250 g, S$8

- Ondeh ondeh 500 g, S$21.90

- Hazelnut chocolate 500 g, S$20.90

Various items are available online for via Foodpanda and Grab.

Ramadhan worship services return to Singapore

The Muslim community in Singapore can look forward to Ramadhan worship services in mosques this year. Many of the activities were suspended in previous years due to Covid, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis) has announced. Some safe management measures will remain for the safety of congregants and to reduce the risk of transmission, Muis said.

Muslims are encouraged to break their fast at home and perform their maghrib prayers (صلاة المغرب, sunset prayer) with heir families. They may then proceed to the mosques to perform the 'isha (صلاة العشاء, night prayer) and terawih prayers (صلاة التراويح). The community may also participate in other Ramadhan activities such as recitation of the Quran, night prayers and religious lectures as offered by mosques.

Muis continues to emphasise the importance of a cautious approach as more religious activities resume. "We also note the national posture of observing new developments to pandemic, such as the possibility of new strains and community outbreaks, which may necessitate further calibration and adjustments to religious life," the organisation said in a statement.

"We seek the support and understanding of the Muslim community to continue to be socially responsible, to show compassion and support to mosques’ staff and volunteers and safeguard public health as we perform our religious obligations in our mosques."

Muis guidance for various activities includes:

Breaking of fast 

For congregants who are unable to break their fast at home with family due to work commitments, some mosques may have an area - separate from the prayer area - where congregants may break their fast, subject to the prevailing safe management measures. Congregants may then perform their sunset prayers before returning to work. Overall, congregants who are able to are strongly encouraged to break their fast and perform their maghrib prayers with their family members at home.

Terawih prayers

Mosques will be conducting terawih prayers after the congregational 'isha prayers, starting at 8:45 pm. Dedicated spaces for female congregants will be made available at all mosques.

Attendance for both prayers must be reserved online. There will be a single booking window for the month, and congregants may book multiple times throughout Ramadhan. Congregants are advised to plan ahead, and to cancel their bookings if they are feeling unwell and unable to come. Bookings begin on 31 March 2022 at 10 am, with about 60,000 spaces available nightly.

Qiyam (قيام) and other activities

Qiyamullail (night prayers) will also be conducted at selected mosques during the last 10 days of Ramadan. No booking will be required, but qiyam sessions will end at 4:30 am. There will be no sleepover at mosques and pre-dawn meals will not be provided.

Mosques which are able to will also offer other activities such as tadarrus (تادرس القرآن, daily Quran reading), khatamul Quran and daily kuliah (lectures), with adherence to safe management plans similar to the daily prayers at mosques. Selected kuliahs at mosque will adopt a hybrid format, with the session being made available online through via SalamSG TV or mosques’ social media platforms.

To minimise risks of community transmission, as well as to remain within capacity limit for mosques, prayers during Ramadhan and Hari Raya Puasa (Eid) will be conducted within mosque premises, which will ensure proper adherence with the streamlined measures. Prayers previously held during pre-COVID times at void decks and other open areas will not be organised.

Support for low-income families

Zakat (زكاة) - alms - payment and disbursement activities will resume as per previous years at the mosque counters. Muslims are encouraged to continue paying zakat and making donations online. Zakat payment can be made via Zakat.sg, and the community can continue to donate to the centralised donation portal OurMasjid.SG to support mosque operational costs.

Zakat fitrah rates for Ramadan 2022 (1443) are S$5.10 (normal rate) and S$7.60 (higher rate) per person. Zakat fitrah will be collected on www.zakat.sg until 3 May, before the Eid prayer. Mosques will continue to support low-income households who are recipients of zakat assistance during Ramadhan. Social development officers and the network of mosque befrienders will continue to reach out to families on long-term zakat financial assistance. Zakat financial assistance will remain available from the 31 Social Development Mosques island-wide.

Safe resumption of religious life

The Office of the Mufti will release Ramadhan FAQs via social media to guide the Muslim community navigate Ramadhan through this endemic period. The social media posts will provide answers on religious queries and guidance as raised by the public such as queries on vaccinations and nasal swab test during Ramadhan.

Details:

Visit the dedicated site for Ramadhan 2022

Hilton Malaysia launches Jelajah Selera campaign for Ramadhan

Hilton is reigniting their global To New Memories campaign with a Malaysia-based follow-up to facilitate the reconnection of people in line with Ramadhan traditions. 

Hilton debuted To New Memories last year. The campaign is built on research insights that show consumers crave reconnections with family and friends, and are inspired by travel memories. 

The brand will be offering special room and dining packages, changing breakfast hours to accommodate dawn prayers. Prayer mats, the Quran, and prayer timetables can be arranged for guest rooms upon request. Guests can also enjoy Ramadhan-inspired turn-down amenities such as complimentary dates in guest rooms and more. 

All 11 outlets nationwide will partake in the traditions of iftar (breaking of fast at sunset) and suhoor (the predawn meal) with a dinner buffet highlighting Malaysia's culinary heritage plus other Asian specialties. 

The Jelajah Selera campaign runs from April to May 3 and offers guests themed buffets, takeaway specials, in-room suhoor dining, barbeque buffets, and more. 

"Cherished family memories are at the heart of Hilton. We want guests to know that Hilton and our Team Members are ready to fully facilitate connection with loved ones during the month of Ramadhan," said Eugene Oelofse, Marketing & Communications Director - Malaysia, Philippines, Sri-Lanka. 

Details:

Participating hotels include Hilton Kuala Lumpur, Hilton Petaling Jaya, Hilton Kuching, Hilton Kota Kinabalu, DoubleTree by Hilton Kuala Lumpur, DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru, DoubleTree by Hilton Melaka, DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Penang, Hilton Garden Inn Puchong, Hilton Garden Inn Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman North and Hilton Garden Inn Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman South, and DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside.

Book new memories directly with Hilton through any official Hilton website or call centre, the Hilton Honors app, or at a Hilton property. Hilton Honors members enjoy up to 25% in discounts.

Source: Hilton. The Jelajah Selara campaign in Malaysia is a take-off from the existing To New Memories campaign.