Special needs children delight in breaking fast at Rumah Prihatin @ Grand Seasons

The breaking of fast programme was organised by Rumah Prihatin for the public, especially the less fortunate, and guests were clearly excited, enjoying the food prepared by chefs from five-star hotels at a nominal charge of RM3.

For Zailani Saffar, 49, Ramadan is always a special month for his son Muhammad Denial Haikal, 18, who suffers from Hydrocephalus.

"We have been looking forward to this. We have not received such an invitation in two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Breaking fast at hotels definitely brings joy because they get to taste hotel food and get 'duit raya'.

"I wish to thank the organisers who sponsored us, and I hope this blessing will continue to be given to the special kids," he told Bernama.

For Nur Mala Mumfit, 42, it was also a joy to be at the event. She is the mother of Nurul Arieysha Afrina Muhammad Iznan, 11, who suffers from spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) Type 2, a genetic disease affecting the central nervous system.

According to Nur Mala, it was the first time her daughter was breaking fast at a hotel.

"We are grateful and we did not expect to be invited to break fast at a hotel. Seeing there are other less fortunate children around just like my daughter, I feel appreciated and excited to see my daughter grow," said Nur Mala, who lives in Batu Muda.

Meanwhile, Rumah Prihatin @ Grand Seasons executive director Datuk Mohd Irwan Rizal said since the programme began on April 11, more than 4,000 people with disabilities, the unfortunate, orphans and asnaf were given donations from individuals and corporations.

"We have seven more days before the programme ends on May 1. We welcome those who want to sponsor the less fortunate groups as there are still between 80 and 100 vacancies a day.

"Not only can they enjoy the breaking of fast food, but we also provide stage performances and the opportunity to mingle with celebrities," he said.

He said corporations and individuals who are interested to participate in or sponsor the programme can call Rumah Prihatin at toll-free line 1 800 88 7997