SHAH ALAM - The Iftar Ala Madinah @Karangkraf programme is more than just a place for families to gather—it offers a remedy for the elderly who long for the joy of breaking fast in a lively community setting.
For 78-year-old Fauziah Mohamad, the experience of breaking fast at Karangkraf eased the loneliness she often felt at home, where she only lived with her daughter and grandchild.
"If I were at home, I would only break fast with my daughter and grandchild. I have a son, but he breaks fast at his own home.
"It feels different here. The atmosphere is lively, there are so many people and it’s refreshingly nice to gather and socialise with them," she said when met at Dataran Karangkraf.
The Iftar Ala Madinah @Karangkraf programme, running until 27 March, welcomes 1,500 guests daily for free, except on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.
Following the overwhelming response in previous years, the programme once again allowed visitors to experience an atmosphere similar to breaking fast at the Nabawi Mosque, strengthening bonds among Muslims and the local community.
Fauziah, who attended with her daughter and grandchild, expressed her appreciation for the comfortable environment and warm hospitality provided by the staff and organisers.
"The food is served directly to your table, so you don’t have to wait in a long queue during registration. The staff are warm and welcoming.
"I often ask my daughter about this programme. I came last year and enjoyed it so much that I wanted to come again this year," she said.
Another guest, Napisah Ahmad reminisced about celebrating Ramadan with her extended family and shared how the event bears resemblance of her experience abroad.
The 85-year-old who hailed from Kelantan said the atmosphere reminded her of her experience breaking fast in Madinah several years ago.
"The ambience here is so festive. It truly feels like being in Madinah. I was fortunate to be there once during Ramadan and this programme provides a very similar experience.
"The facilities provided, including those for people with disabilities, the elderly and the sick, make it convenient to enjoy the meal comfortably.
"I use a wheelchair, so having accommodating facilities for senior citizens like me makes me feel appreciated," she said.
Meanwhile, her son, Mat Hussain Saari, 65, who also attended the programme, expressed his happiness being able to join the event with his mother and younger brother in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
"The hospitality here is excellent—friendly and respectful. Even though I am in a wheelchair, both my mother and I feel comfortable.
"If this programme continues every year, I would definitely come again. It feels great to break fast together with so many people," he added.
He hopes that such programmes will continue in the future, as they provided an opportunity for more elderly individuals to experience the joy of Ramadan within the community.
He further highlighted that initiatives like these were especially meaningful for the elderly, who may not have the chance to break their fast in a lively setting.
To join the Iftar Ala Madinah @Karangkraf, guests must register before 2pm daily by scanning the QR code which could be found on the Iftar.karangkraf.com website or contact the secretariat at 019-213 3315.
Those who wish to contribute or donate towards improving facilities, purchasing iftar essentials, or providing food can do so via the Iftar Infaq Fund through Maybank account 564276529068 (Maybank-Sinar Karangkraf Sdn Bhd).