Simpang empat: Each afternoon during Ramadan, the aroma of simmering dishes drifts from a modest home in Simpang Empat near Alor Setar, where 42-year-old Atikah Abdullah Hasnan begins her daily ritual. By 1 pm, pots are already on the stove. Coconut milk bubbles gently, spices crackle, and rice steams as Atikah, assisted by her 45-year-old husband Mohd Aminuddin Abdul Wahab, moves briskly between kitchen counters.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, in just a few hours, the meals will be neatly packed into tiered tiffin carriers and sent off to homes across Alor Setar, and as far as Tunjang in Jitra. But these are more than ordinary deliveries. For many of her customers, the tiffins are acts of devotion. Atikah explains that most of those who place orders are children working outside Kedah, some in Selangor, who want to ensure their parents have proper meals to break fast.

The idea was a leap of faith for Atikah, who had previously run a small catering operation but decided this year to venture into Ramadan tiffin sets. On the first day of fasting, only two orders came in. Within a week, however, word spread and orders climbed steadily to between 20 and 25 a day. Atikah now takes bookings from Monday to Thursday, carefully managing what she can handle.

She ensures every meal follows a simple formula: rice, one protein dish, and one vegetable. Yet, the menu changes daily across the 30 days of Ramadan to keep things interesting. If a customer prefers a different protein, Atikah adjusts the meal without hesitation.

By 4 pm, Atikah takes the car while her husband sets off on his motorcycle, racing the clock to ensure each delivery arrives before iftar. The service is priced at RM70 a week for Alor Setar and RM80 for Jitra, inclusive of delivery, making it an accessible option for families wanting peace of mind. Atikah is encouraged by the feedback and is already considering expanding next year. She can be reached on her Facebook page, Aaradinda.