Birkin International Hotel hosted 35 children and theRumah Anak-Anak Yatim Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Al-Haj (RAYSAS) for a special iftar gathering at the newly-opened Birkin Kitchen.
The Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Al-Haj Orphanage (RAYSAS) was established on 13 March 2002 in Pantai Puteri, Melaka, to support orphans and underprivileged children.
Initiated by Y.A.B. Tun Seri Setia (Dr.) Haji Mohd Ali bin Mohd Rustam, then Chief Minister of Melaka, its RM2.57 million construction was funded by contributions from MAIM, the Negeri Melaka Dakwah Trust Fund, proceeds from the DYMM Almarhum Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Al-Haj Charity Golf event, and public donations.
Built on waqf (endowed) land donated by Y.Bhg. Datuk H.M. Shah and his family in mukim Tanjung Batu, Melaka, RAYSAS initially accommodated 100 residents and now provides shelter and education to 31 children under MAIM’s care. As a dedicated charitable institution, RAYSAS continues to uphold its mission of nurturing independent, competitive, and successful individuals.
Adding a touch of star power to the evening, Malaysia’s beloved songstress, Datuk Nora Ariffin, graced the occasion with soulful performances with her famous ballad including ‘Dilema’ and ‘Desa Tercinta’, and the evergreen ‘Suasana Hari Raya’, creating an unforgettable moment of joy and inspiration for the young guests.
The evening began with an azan recital by Haiqal Shamien from RAYSAS, indicating the break of fast, followed by Maghrib prayers.
In a heartwarming exchange, the hotel’s staff serenaded the children with a heartfelt Raya song performance, filling the hotel with a joyous festive spirit. The children were also entertained with a captivating traditional Ghazal melody by Kumpulan Muzik Asli Dendang Irama.
"At Birkin International Hotel, sustainability is not just about our operations—it’s about our responsibility to the community. Our commitment to corporate social responsibility goes beyond festive initiatives; we believe in building meaningful, long-term relationships with the community we serve," said Simon Tan, General Manager of Birkin International Hotel.
“While most children celebrate Ramadan surrounded by family, our children often face this season without that support, making gatherings like this all the more meaningful. This gathering was about more than just sharing a meal—it was about fostering a sense of joy and belonging. We thank Simon and his team at Birkin International Hotel for their generosity and compassion,” said Ustaz Atqullah Muhammad, Manager of Rumah Anak-Anak Yatim Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Al-Haj.
After the iftar, the Birkin International Hotel team also gifted the children with festive Hampers.
Together with the Birkin International Hotel team, the children enjoyed the Bufet Suasana Kampung, Birkin Kitchen’s pre-festive spread which brings back the warmth and nostalgia of home-cooked meals, where the essence of tradition, family, and togetherness is celebrated in every experience.
Signature selections served during the event includes “Grang Asam Tetel,” “Ayam Kampung Berempah,” “Paru Goreng Berempah,” “Perut Masak Lemak Rebung,” and the mouth- watering “Birkin Briyani,” all meticulously crafted with a handpicked selection of heartwarming spices for soul-warming gatherings evoking the nostalgia of home-cooked meals that make dining truly special.
Birkin International Hotel remains dedicated to sustainable giving and strengthening its role as a socially responsible hospitality leader.