Halal Restaurant in Hanoi: Batavia Restaurant

If you are a traveller like me then you know the struggle of finding proper halal makan in non-Muslim-majority cities. So guess what? While strolling through the charming chaos of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, I stumbled upon a gem that had me grinning from ear to– Batavia Restaurant!

A Little Piece of Indonesia in Hanoi
Tucked away in the heart of Hanoi, Batavia is not just any Indonesian restaurant – it's a cozy, homey spot bursting with authentic flavors, warm service, and loads of soul. Think Balinese wood décor meets Vietnamese charm. Love at first sight lah!

The heart and soul behind Batavia? Meet Mr. Iwan, an Indonesian expat with a big smile and even bigger dreams. He moved to Vietnam years ago and, like many of us, missed the comfort of his home food. That craving turned into a mission… and boom! Batavia was born.

100% Halal, No Compromise
Now here’s the best part, Batavia is 100% halal! Mr. Iwan takes this very seriously, kid you not. All their meats are sourced from certified halal suppliers (in fact some were imported!), and the kitchen is managed with strict halal practices so when you makan here, no worries, no doubts, tanpa was-was.

I even peeked into their kitchen (curious traveller kindathing) - clean, organised, and the smells... MasyaAllah laparrudin terus.

Inspired by Home & Heart (Masak dengan kasih saying)

The menu? A true love letter to Indonesia. Mr. Iwan shared that the dishes are inspired by his late mum’s cooking, his travels across Indonesia, and the street food stalls he grew up with, a typical Indonesia kampung upbringing. It’s not fusion or modern, nor was it this-and-that fancy shmancy food, it’s the real deal, straight-up kampung-style goodness with Hanoi flair.

A True Crowd Favourites
Okay, let’s talk food! These three dishes? Must. Try.

1. Rendang Sapi – Slow-cooked, tender beef in rich coconut gravy. Smoky, spicy, heavenly.
2. Nasi Goreng Batavia – Their signature fried rice with just the right kick.
3. Sate Ayam with Peanut Sauce – Juicy, smoky skewers with that creamy, dreamy sauce.

But we from IslamiCruise did not have the normal-typical-crowd favourite, we have a fusion of Indonesia-Vietnamese food. The mix vege versus the Vietnamese fried fucuk, the all-time-famous Pho, cakoi (my favourite, and we only got a plate [mana cukup!]) and keropok. And beladoooo (the Minang in me leap with joy) and few other dishes that was to die for.

IslamiCruise Approved!

And guess what? Our friends from IslamiCruise have been loyal patrons of Batavia for over 3 years now! It is their go-to spot whenever they're in Hanoi and you know IslamiCruise only partners with trusted halal eats and great taste place! And I approves it too.

Why Hanoi Loves Batavia
Besides the yummy food and halal seal of approval, Batavia has won the hearts of both locals and travellers because of its authenticity, affordable prices, and homely vibe. Plus, it’s perfect for Muslim tourists who wanna eat with peace of mind without compromising on taste.

Save it. Share it. Tag your makan kaki.

IslamiCruise Halong Bay 2025 Media Fam Trip is organized by IslamiCruise Internation Sd Bhd.

Halong Bay: A Spiritual Serenity onboard IslamiCruise

I have been sailing on cruises multiple times in multiple countries but my recent trip onboard IslamiCruise’s Pelayaran 55 in the breathtaking Halong Bay, Vietnam was definitely not my normal nor typical sail. This time around, it is all about blending spiritual healing with nature, and perhaps to some - soul-refreshing/ searching. We cruised through the stately limestone islets while participating in tazkirah, Qiamullail, congregational Subuh solat and meaningful forum with renowned scholars. Till now, I’m still processing everything.

An Experience Like No Other

A little background on IslamiCruise: Established back in 2014, they were (still are) the world’s first Islamic program onboard a Halal-certified cruise, of which redefined the meaning of Muslim-friendly travel. Everything on board is Syariah-compliant, right from the halal-certified food, Qibla-facing prayer signs, as well as religious activities, making you feel at peace without compromising your lifestyle.

Pelayaran 55 brought along 50+ participants from all age groups and walks of life, indifferent when it comes to this trip. What makes it great is that despite that we were strangers at first, but by the end of the trip we are one big family.

The Heart of the Journey

This would be the tazkirah sessions. We are humbled and honoured to have Ustaz Syeikh Muhd Zainul Asri and Ustazah Mahani, Ustaz Azwan Ali together with Ustazah Muzayyanah that brought something special to share. This is unlike the surau or masjid session lecture or ceramah, this felt personal – a direct impact to the soul I would say.

I clearly remembered, one moment we were waking up for doing Qiamullail under the stars, performing Subuh prayer in congregation and quietly listening to a Subuh tazkirah, and next before our eyes we saw the beautiful sunrise emerge. We were all overwhelmed. Who needs filter when you are presented with God greatest gift.

The Food for the Soul

Golden Cruises served us a sumptuous 5 star halal meals, strictly monitored by Ustaz Salam. I was told that the meat was brought all the way from Hanoi as Halal meat is hard to source in Halong Bay. And also, there are times that Ustaz Salam himself prepared some of the dishes. Happy tummy throughout the trip.

Bonding Time
Aside from the structured activities, there was a lot of time for chit-chatting especial during mealtime and this extended to while tender boat riding, cave excursions or even lepaking at Titop Island, everything just clicked. As much as the exhilarating adventures, the piritual moments shared balanced it off.

Everyone said the same thing ie. they connected and genuinely grateful for this wonderful experience. It’s not every day (nor usual) that you get to go on a trip that feeds your soul and your sense of travel at the same time.

So, if you are ever desire for a more meaningful and unique holiday ie. balancing travel and spiritual aspect then this might just be the trip for you, it recharges your spirit, reconnects you with inspiring people, and reminds you of your purpose if life - IslamiCruise. 

With over 50+ sails to places like Phuket, Banda Aceh, and Halong Bay (was told 20+ cruises just in Halong Bay alone), they announced that come this January 2026 a 13-nights cruise sailing from Malaysia and Arab Saudi, with stops at Banda Aceh, Maldives, and Salalah in Oman. An epic trip indeed.

So yeah, this isn’t just another holiday trip but a journey inward, outward, and obviously upward. An experience that I will remember (hence blogged about it) and one that I recommend for you to experience it too.

IslamiCruise Halong Bay 2025 Media Fam Trip is organized by IslamiCruise Internation Sd Bhd.

Pearl Harvesting in Halong Bay, Hanoi

 
Me - part adventurer, part National Geographic perasan-er, part konon historian dan segala bagai. When I learnt that IslamiCruise excursion includes visiting a pearl farm in Halong Bay, I told myself “kena pergi nih!”

Floating Pearl Farm

After a hearty Vietnamese+Western breakfast on board, we were grouped and boarded the tender boat to the pearl farm. Built on wooden platforms, nets bobbing in the water, and segmented areas showcasing and educating us about how pearl is harvested.

Pearl farming is the local’s livelihood for many families around Halong Bay. The province started their pearl aquaculture in the early 90s with help from Japanese experts. Then on, it has grown into an export industry, I learnt that they are now supplying high-quality pearls to both local and international markets. You can see the Vietnam’s pearls in boutiques from Hanoi to Tokyo, to even Europe.

The Process and Types of Oysters & Pearls

It starts by the technicians implanting a tiny shell bead or nucleus into the oyster (yes, I know – it is hard to see, but you have to trust the process kay). The oyster then reacts by secreting layers of nacre around it – layer by layer, eventually forming a pearl. Like what they say ‘if life gives you lemon, make a lemonade’ but in this case ‘if life gives you an irritant, make jewelry’. God is great!

Depending on the oyster species and desired pearl size, this process takes 18 months to 5 years. Akoya pearls are usually harvested around 24 months, while South Sea pearls need more beauty sleep in order to make a premium pearl. During this ‘hibernation’ time, farmers will carefully monitor water quality, clean the shells, also do a health checks on the oysters (Mutiara di belai yea). So be patience, young pearl padawan (tetiba Star Wars pulak).

I was told that the farm here mainly uses Akoya oysters, the small species known for producing perfectly round and glossy pearls. Having said that, they also raise South Sea and Tahitian oysters of which create a larger, more exotic gems.

Nothing Goes to Waste

Pearls are then polished, graded and set into jewelry on-site. Meanwhile oyster shells are used to make mother-of-pearl inlays for ornaments such as trays to picture frames, event the face of watches (I have one myself). And the oyster meat? Well, sometimes they eat it despite not all species are tasty – so they say. Amazingly, the by-products ie. broken shells are repurposed into lime for agriculture. Haiwan cangkeran seribu guna!

Are Vietnamese Pearls Famous?

I bet many would want to know, and I was told (might need verification here), they are sold not only in Vietnam but also being exported to Japan, Korea, Australia and Europe. And that some pearls from Halong Bay even carry OCOP certification (Vietnam’s “One Commune One Product” initiative - quality and locality).

The guess the best part about visiting the farm is that I can see the whole process of the pearl journey, from oyster to jewellery. I felt a deep appreciation of the people here, the pearl harvester/technician, the team that monitors the oyster, the jewellery craftsman, the sales personnel – everyone plays a role. It is slow work and delicate, just to create something so beautiful.

So, if you’re sailing through Halong Bay next time around, please don’t skip the pearl farm. There’s 2 things that can happen, either you walk away with a necklace (or an ornament) or just a nucleus of new knowledge, it will definitely be a gem of an experience you’ll carry with you long after the cruise ends. Thank you IslamiCruise!

#TravelTips:
Ask staff for certification of its origin and pearl type.
If cost is an issue, get a mother-of-pearl trinket instead – cheaper, lighter and easy to pack.

IslamiCruise Halong Bay 2025 Media Fam Trip is organized by IslamiCruise Internation Sd Bhd.

A Ramadhan Feast You Won’t Forget : M Resort and Hotel Kuala Lumpur:

The holy month of Ramadhan is a special time for reflection, family gatherings, and of course, feasting! And when it comes to breaking your fast in style, M Resort and Hotel Kuala Lumpur has always been my go-to destination. Their yearly Ramadhan spread never fails to surprise me, and this year is no exception. With their 2025 Ramadhan offerings, it’s safe to say they’ve outdone themselves once again!

Ayam Golek

Before diving into the food, let’s take a moment to appreciate the charm of M Resort and Hotel. Nestled in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, this contemporary hotel blends modern luxury with warm hospitality. Whether you’re staying the night or visiting for a meal, you’ll be greeted by elegant decor, impeccable service, and an atmosphere that’s perfect for celebrating special occasions, like Ramadhan. Their commitment to quality and attention to detail is evident, and this shines brightest during their Ramadhan festivities.

A Delicious Food
Every year, M Resort's Ramadhan spread is something I eagerly anticipate. It’s a true celebration of traditional Malay delicacies with a few exciting twists, and 2025 is no different. From the moment I step into their dining hall, the aroma of spices and freshly prepared dishes fills the air, making it impossible not to salivate. The variety is vast, and as always, everything is cooked to perfection, making it a worthwhile experience every single time.

Jantung Pisang Masak Lemak Putih

Udang Sambal Lemak Tempoyak Petai

This year, M Resort’s Ramadhan buffet includes an incredible selection of local and international flavors. I can always count on them to surprise me with new items, but they also stick to the classics that I love. From the rich Udang Sambal Lemak Tempoyak Petai to the perfectly cooked Jantung Pisang Masak Lemak Putih, each dish carries its own unique flavors and textures that transport me straight to a home-cooked meal. 

Butter Prawn

As much as I love all the dishes, one of the standout stations for me is their Nasi Campur section. I’ve had nasi campur at many places, but M Resort’s version is simply one of the best I’ve ever tasted. The rice is fluffy and perfectly cooked, and it’s complemented by a variety of side dishes and condiments that make each bite an explosion of flavor. You can’t leave without trying it!

Chinese Section

Japanese Section

What sets M Resort’s Ramadhan spread apart is the delightful surprise of their Chinese and Japanese food stations. After indulging in the rich, flavorful Malay dishes (the makanan berlemak we all love), the refreshing lightness of the sushi and dim sum are the perfect palate cleansers. This combination of flavors creates a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience that never gets boring!

Bread Butter Pudding

Kuih-muih

Desserts Galore
M Resort is also known for their impressive dessert spread, and I can’t get enough of it. It’s honestly the highlight of the meal! Their bread butter pudding is my absolute favorite. Soft, rich, and absolutely divine, it’s the perfect way to end the meal. But that's not all—there's a wide range of traditional Malay sweets and other desserts that cater to every sweet tooth.

New York Mini Beef with Chimichurri

2025 Ramadhan Promotion: Early Bird Special
RM228 nett per adult
RM114 nett per child (5-11 years)
RM160 nett per senior citizen (60+ years)

Buy 5 free 1 promo available from the first day of Ramadhan to March 30, 2025. Reserve now at +603 7773 7690 or fnb@mresort-hotel.com.my

Mix Lobster with Prawn

So, if you’re looking to make your Ramadhan feasts extra special this year, don’t miss out on M Resort’s amazing spread. I highly recommend you book early, especially with the early bird pricing—this is one dining experience you’ll remember long after the month of Ramadhan ends.

Revisiting the Wonder Years at P. Ramlee Memorial House

 If you’re ever in Kuala Lumpur and feel like taking a trip down memory lane, let me tell you about a little gem tucked away in Setapak – the P. Ramlee Memorial House. Walking into this place feels like stepping into a time machine set to the golden era of Malaysian entertainment. It’s nostalgic, heartwarming, and a beautiful tribute to the man who brought so much joy to the nation.  

For those who grew up humming his Getaran Jiwa or laughing along to the antics in Bujang Lapok, this house is a treasure trove of memories.

Stepping into Nostalgia  
As I approached the modest kampung-style house, I couldn’t help but smile. It’s simple yet charming, much like the man himself. Inside, you’ll find rooms filled with memorabilia—his personal belongings, photos, movie posters, musical instruments, and even a replica of his awards cabinet.  

Standing in his workspace, I felt a strange mix of awe and warmth. This is where the magic happened—where ideas for his iconic movies and songs were born. I swear I could almost hear him humming a tune in the background (or maybe that was just my overactive imagination).  

The Legacy of P. Ramlee  
P. Ramlee wasn’t just a singer, actor, or director; he was the entertainer of his time. His movies, like Ibu Mertua Ku (Kassim Selamat, siapa boleh lupa kan) and Seniman Bujang Lapok, are still aired on TV, keeping Malaysians glued to their screens even decades later. And his songs? Timeless. Who hasn’t sung along to Bila Larut Malam or danced to Azizah at least once?  

Here’s the thing about P. Ramlee: he had this uncanny ability to blend humour, heart, and hard-hitting social commentary. His movies weren’t just funny; they were smart. He poked fun at societal norms, tackled issues like poverty and family, and still managed to make you laugh until your stomach hurt.  

I remember my dad saying, “P. Ramlee didn’t just entertain us; he taught us about life.” And honestly, after rewatching Tiga Abdul for the umpteenth time, I have to agree.  

Why Malaysians Love Him  
Why do Malaysians still adore P. Ramlee after all these years? Because he wasn’t just a star; he was one of us. His stories, his characters, his struggles—they were relatable. He celebrated the quirks of Malaysian life, from the nosy neighbour to the strict father-in-law, in a way that made us laugh and cry at the same time.  

Even in his songs, there’s this raw emotion that tugs at your heartstrings. He didn’t just sing; he poured his soul into every note.  

And let’s not forget his humour. Malaysians love a good laugh, and P. Ramlee delivered that in spades. His slapstick comedy, witty one-liners, and perfectly timed jokes are still unmatched. I mean, who else could make a simple scene about buying a keris so ridiculously funny?  

Why You Should Visit  
The P. Ramlee Memorial House isn’t just a museum; it’s a time capsule. It’s a reminder of a simpler time when black-and-white movies brought families together, and a song could make your whole day better.  

Walking through the house, you’ll feel an overwhelming sense of pride for this man who gave so much to Malaysian culture. And trust me, by the time you leave, you’ll probably be humming one of his songs (don’t say I didn’t warn you).  


Why we Malaysian loves him
P. Ramlee wasn’t just a legend; he was—and still is—a part of who we are as Malaysians. His work continues to bring joy, laughter, and even a few tears to audiences of all ages. Visiting the P. Ramlee Memorial House reminded me of why he holds such a special place in our hearts.  

So, if you’re ever in KL, go check it out. Rekindle those wonder years, laugh a little, maybe tear up a bit, and take a moment to celebrate the man who made us all proud to be Malaysian.

A day at the Royal Selangor School of Hard Knocks

Have you ever wanted to try your hand at something creative and fun while learning a bit of history? Well, the Royal Selangor School of Hard Knocks is just the place for you! Located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, this unique workshop lets you dive into the fascinating world of pewter crafting. If you're curious about how shiny, intricate pewter items are made or want a memorable hands-on experience, read on—I’ll take you through my unforgettable day there.

Starting the Day with a Tour
Before the workshop, we went on a guided tour of the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre, and wow, what a treat it was! The tour kicked off with a walk through the Pewter Museum, where we learned about pewter’s rich history. Did you know Royal Selangor started way back in 1885 as a small family business? Today, it’s one of the world’s most renowned pewter brands.

The museum showcased some jaw-dropping artifacts, like an enormous beer mug that holds the Guinness World Record for being the largest pewter tankard. There were also intricate pewter tea sets, jewelry, and figurines that left us marveling at the craftsmanship. It was fascinating to see how a simple alloy of tin, antimony, and copper could be transformed into such stunning pieces.

Behind the Scenes: The Pewter Factory
The next part of the tour took us into the pewter factory, where the real magic happens. Watching the artisans at work was mesmerizing. Each step of the process was laid out for us:

1. Casting : Molten pewter is poured into molds to form basic shapes.  

2. Polishing : The raw pieces are buffed to achieve that iconic, silvery sheen.  
3. Hammering : This is where patterns and textures are added using traditional hand tools.  
4. Engraving : Some items are personalized or adorned with intricate designs.  

It’s a mix of old-school craftsmanship and modern techniques, with every step done with precision and care. Seeing the artisans' dedication gave me a whole new appreciation for the pewter items I’d taken for granted before.

The School of Hard Knocks Workshop
After the tour, it was time to roll up our sleeves and get to work at the School of Hard Knocks. The workshop is designed for beginners, so no need to worry if you’ve never touched a hammer before (I hadn’t either!). Each of us was given a flat pewter disc, a wooden mold, and a mallet. The task? To transform the disc into a simple bowl—sounds easy, right? Well, not exactly.

Under the guidance of a friendly instructor, we started hammering away. It was oddly therapeutic to hear the rhythmic clinking of mallets against pewter. There were some wonky edges and uneven surfaces, but that’s what made each bowl unique and personal. By the end of the session, I had a slightly lopsided but charming little bowl, complete with my initials stamped on it.

What I loved most about the workshop was how it connected me to the artistry and effort behind pewter-making. I left with more than just a souvenir—I walked away with a new appreciation for this centuries-old craft.

Why You Should Try It
Attending the School of Hard Knocks isn’t just about making a bowl; it’s about the whole experience. Here’s why I think everyone should give it a go:

- Hands-On Fun : It’s rare to get the chance to create something with your own hands in today’s digital world.  
- Educational : You learn about pewter, its history, and the artistry that goes into making it.  

- Memorable Souvenir : The bowl you make is one-of-a-kind, and it’s a keepsake you’ll treasure.  

- Family-Friendly : Kids and adults alike will enjoy the workshop, making it a great activity for families.  


The Versatility of Pewter
Before this visit, I never realized how versatile pewter is. Royal Selangor produces an impressive range of household items, from elegant wine goblets and tea sets to decorative items like photo frames and figurines. Some of their limited-edition collections are nothing short of art—one of my favorites was a chess set with intricately carved pewter pieces.

Wrapping Up
The Royal Selangor School of Hard Knocks is more than just a workshop—it’s an experience that blends creativity, history, and fun. Whether you’re a tourist looking for a unique activity in Kuala Lumpur or a local wanting to explore something new, this place is a must-visit. 

You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind pewter items, a cool handmade bowl, and a big smile on your face. So, what are you waiting for? Grab a mallet and let’s get hammering!