Giant Seafood Delights Steal The Spotlight At JB's Taman Suria Ramadan Bazaar

JOHOR BAHRU, Feb 24 (Bernama) -- 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.

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.

According to 23-year-old stall assistant Muhammad Iskandar Abdullah, 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.

“Most customers are surprised and in awe when they see the scale of the seafood on display, especially the giant cockles, which are a rare find at most Ramadan bazaars.

“Among the top picks are the jumbo cockles, grilled crabs, and stingray, which remain our bestsellers every day. Alhamdulillah, the response this year has been excellent, with many regulars returning for their (seafood) fix,” he told Bernama when met at the bazaar.

Iskandar added that prices vary according to the type and size of the seafood, with the flavours enhanced by a signature spicy-sweet sambal sauce that has become a firm favourite among patrons.

“Our prices range from RM80 to RM130 for lobster, while Alaskan lobster is priced at RM420. We have stingray at RM45 each, sea bass at RM40, and 800-gramme giant cockles at RM35. Others include smaller cockles at RM25 per set, hardtail scad at RM20, red snapper at RM70, pomfret at RM50, and mud crabs at RM200.

“We place a heavy emphasis on quality and freshness, sourcing our supplies from various locations, including Sabah for the giant cockles,” he said.

He added that the stall owner, Salwa Mohd Yamin, 29, has maintained the same pricing as previous years and provides a comprehensive price board featuring images to help customers make informed choices.

The stall attracts a diverse crowd, ranging from locals to Singaporeans.

Addressing occasional negative feedback regarding prices perceived as expensive or labelled as ‘Singapore pricing,’ Iskandar remains undeterred.

“We cannot control people’s opinions. However, if there are any issues, such as spoiled food, customers can return with photographic proof, and we are prepared to provide a replacement or a refund.

“While some customers are happy to spend hundreds of ringgit to enjoy a premium seafood feast, others choose menu items that better fit their respective budgets,” he said.

Cleanliness is also a top priority for the team. All seafood is thoroughly washed in the preparation area before being brought to the front for sale.

Sharing a heartwarming side of the business, Iskandar said that, while they usually sell out, any surplus food is shared with fellow traders or given to the public after breaking the fast, reflecting the spirit of charity and the communal effort to avoid waste during the holy month of Ramadan.

-- BERNAMA