Johor bahru: Billowing clouds of smoke and the irresistible aroma of freshly grilled seafood have become the hallmark of a stall at the Taman Suria Ramadan bazaar here, where oversized marine delicacies are grilled to perfection before eager visitors.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, now in its fifth year, the 'Ikan Bakar No.1 JB' stall continues to draw in crowds during Ramadan with its signature 'extraordinary size' concept, including giant cockles measuring over 20 centimetres, roughly the size of a human palm, alongside lobsters, Alaskan king crabs, mud crabs, tiger prawns, and an array of fish, including stingray, sea bass, and hardtail scad.
Muhammad Iskandar Abdullah, a 23-year-old stall assistant, stated that the giant seafood concept has become the business's core identity, driven by the overwhelming response they have received since beginning operations at the bazaar in 2022. He noted that customers are often surprised and in awe when they see the scale of the seafood on display, particularly the giant cockles, which are uncommon at most Ramadan bazaars.
Iskandar highlighted that the stall's top picks include jumbo cockles, grilled crabs, and stingray, which remain bestsellers every day. He expressed gratitude for the excellent response this year, with many regulars returning for their seafood fix. Prices vary according to the type and size of the seafood, with flavors enhanced by a signature spicy-sweet sambal sauce favored by patrons.
The stall offers a range of prices, with lobster from RM80 to RM130, Alaskan lobster at RM420, stingray at RM45 each, sea bass at RM40, and 800-gramme giant cockles at RM35. Other offerings include smaller cockles at RM25 per set, hardtail scad at RM20, red snapper at RM70, pomfret at RM50, and mud crabs at RM200. The business emphasizes quality and freshness, sourcing supplies from various locations, including Sabah for the giant cockles.
Stall owner Salwa Mohd Yamin, 29, has maintained the same pricing as previous years and provides a comprehensive price board with images to assist customers in making informed choices. The stall attracts a diverse crowd, including locals and visitors from Singapore.
Addressing occasional negative feedback regarding perceived expensive prices, often labeled as 'Singapore pricing,' Iskandar remains undeterred. He stated that while they cannot control people's opinions, they are prepared to provide a replacement or refund for any issues, such as spoiled food, brought with photographic proof. He noted that some customers are willing to spend hundreds of ringgit for a premium seafood feast, while others choose menu items that fit their budgets.
Cleanliness is a top priority for the team, with all seafood thoroughly washed in the preparation area before being brought to the front for sale. Reflecting the spirit of charity and avoiding waste during Ramadan, any surplus food is shared with fellow traders or given to the public after breaking the fast.