LETTERS: There has been a shift among Malaysians when it comes to iftar — the breaking of the fast — with a growing trend towards eating out at restaurants or purchasing foods from bazaars.
This may offer convenience and variety but also comes at a cost. Prices have been on the rise, driven by factors such as escalating costs of essential ingredients.
Staples such as rice, flour, cooking oil, and vegetables have seen price hikes due to various factors, including inflation, changes in weather patterns affecting agricultural yields, and disruptions in the supply chain.
Other factors include the implementation of sales and service tax, food price inflation and government interventions, such as subsidies and price controls, aim to stabilize prices.
Amidst all this, home dining emerges as a viable and sustainable solution.
By preparing meals at home, individuals and families can exercise greater control over ingredients, portion sizes, and cooking methods, thereby promoting healthier eating habits.
Dining at home offers significant cost savings compared with eating out, as homemade meals are generally more economical, tailored to suit dietary preferences and budgetary constraints.
While dining out or ordering takeout may be associated with socialising and spending quality time with friends and family, family members or housemates can share cooking responsibilities to turn cooking into a collaborative and enjoyable activity.
This alternatively could enhance socialisation and bonding while cooking and sharing meals at home.
Additionally, supporting local restaurants through occasional takeout or delivery can help strike a balance between convenience and cost-effectiveness. By patronising local eateries, individuals can still enjoy restaurant-quality meals while contributing to the local economy.
Ultimately, it's about finding a balance that works for everyone's lifestyle and priorities, whether it's cooking at home or dining out occasionally.
The trend of eating out in Malaysia reflects broader societal shifts in lifestyle and consumption patterns. Factors such as urbanisation, changing demographics, and socioeconomic status all play a role in shaping individuals' food choices.
However, it's crucial to preserve the tradition of home dining during Ramadan as a means of fostering family cohesion, promoting healthier eating habits, and safeguarding financial wellbeing.
By embracing home dining during this holy month, Malaysians can uphold cherished traditions, nurture relationships, and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the blessings of food and community.
DR SALINI DEVI RAJENDRAN
Taylor's University
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times