Ceria Ramadan Fest 2025: A Night of Love, Laughter, and Togetherness

by Rushdina Sofea

On March 15, 2025, the warmth of Ramadan filled the air as Small Changes Malaysia hosted the Ceria Ramadan Fest in Subang Jaya. More than just a breaking-fast event, it was a night of connection, community, and compassion, bringing together people from all walks of life.

This year, the event welcomed 60 beneficiaries from Asrama Haluan Penyayang and Rumah Baitul Hidayah, along with volunteers, international students, and guests of different races and religions. It was a true reflection of the Ramadan spirit, where generosity and togetherness transcended backgrounds.

The Heart Behind Ceria Ramadan Fest: The People Who Made It Happen

Beyond just an iftar, Ceria Ramadan Fest is a movement that carries a deeper purpose. It was founded on the shared vision of individuals who wanted to create something truly special.

Azri Malek, the founder of Small Changes, reflected on how the event came to life:

“For years, my friends and I have been hosting buka puasa gatherings for orphans. But last year, through a shared vision with Adly Rizal (Fried Chillies), Kaii & Ashraf (AK Events), and Erina & Anas (Zaahara), we created something bigger, which is Ceria Ramadan Fest. It’s a beautiful mix of different people bringing their strengths together to build something meaningful.”

The core idea behind the event wasn’t just about providing meals but ensuring the orphans felt truly celebrated. Adly Rizal, the brain behind the programme and founder of Fried Chillies Food Network, emphasized this:

“We wanted our friends and families to see these children as individuals with their own dreams and cravings, not just as an orphanage group to be displayed. This event allows them to experience Iftar in a way that truly excites them.”

Looking ahead, the founders hope to see Ceria Ramadan Fest expand even further. Anas from Zahaara shared his aspirations:

“We want this to grow into something even bigger, maybe one day hosting it at a stadium or even having it endorsed by Tourism Malaysia. This way, more people can learn about Ramadan, iftar, and the beauty of giving back.”

Azri Malek echoed this sentiment, hoping the event continues to bring joy to more beneficiaries each year:

“I want this event to be remembered as one of the best moments of Ramadan for the beneficiaries. I hope they walk away with full hearts and full stomachs, knowing they are seen, valued, and loved.”

This year, Ceria Ramadan Fest went global, with volunteers hosting smaller-scale buka puasa events in Osaka, Leeds, Birmingham, Qatar, Sydney, and London. It’s proof that this initiative is more than just an event. It’s a movement of love, culture, and generosity.

“We want to continue growing this, making it a tradition that brings people together every Ramadan. Ceria Ramadan Fest isn’t just about feeding people, it’s about building bridges, sharing cultures, and witnessing joy.” – Adly Rizal

An Evening of Warmth and Togetherness

From the moment the children arrived, excitement was in the air. Volunteers greeted them with warm smiles, and the icebreaker games kicked off with bursts of laughter.

One of the highlights of the evening was the “Lari Lari Puasa” challenge, where the beneficiaries moved through fun and meaningful activities. They shared their funniest sahur experiences, talked about the importance of forgiving, and even had a mini-singing session of raya songs. Even the international students and non-Muslim participants joined in, eager to learn more about Ramadan traditions in a fun and interactive way.

At the heart of the event was the effort to give the beneficiaries an Iftar experience they truly desired. Instead of serving a standard menu, the organizers asked the children what they actually wanted to eat. Their responses? Smash burgers, nacho cheese, carbonara pasta, and all the trendy dishes they’ve seen on TikTok but rarely get to try.

From kambing golek, ice cream, keropok lekor, and churros to Grill Haven’s burgers and Ahmad Fried Chicken, the variety of food brought joy to everyone. The highlight for many was not just the food but the sense of togetherness, where volunteers and beneficiaries dined side by side, sharing stories and laughter.

Voices of Our Beneficiaries

For many of the beneficiaries, the night was about more than just food. It was about feeling like they belonged.

For Nur Irdina Khaliesah, 17, returning to the event felt like coming home.

“It felt amazing! When I think back to last year, we were here, too. So, it brought back all those memories. We got to know the facilitators, and they were all so friendly. Plus, we got to eat together with them.”

Her friend, Putri Alia Safira, 16, loved how much the event had grown.

“This year was way more lively! There were more people, more activities. Last year, we just had buka puasa, but this time, it was packed with fun things to do.”

The energy of the evening peaked during the Raya song challenge, where the beneficiaries and volunteers sang their hearts out to hits like “Raya Raya Raya” by DOLLA and “Ketipak Ketipung Raya” by Aisha Retno and Aziz Harun. The entire yard was filled with clapping, laughter, and music, making it one of the most memorable moments of the evening.

When asked about their favorite food, they had no doubts.

“Mini burgers from Grill Haven!” – Nur Irdina Khaliesah
“Croffle! It was so good!” – Putri Alia Safira

Before they left, we asked if they would want to come again next year. They both smiled.

“Of course! It’s so much fun. We get to eat together, the place is beautiful, and the facilitators are all so sporting!”

Ramadan Through the Eyes of Our Non-Muslim Volunteer

For Nittesh, one of the volunteers, attending the Ceria Ramadan Fest as a non-Muslim was an eye-opening experience.

“It was a unique and meaningful experience for me. I had the opportunity to learn more about Ramadan while mingling with different people, especially the beneficiaries.”

What stood out to him the most was the inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.

“It was heartwarming to see everyone come together to create a meaningful experience for the kids and the community. The event was incredibly inclusive. It was wonderful to see people from different backgrounds sharing stories and learning from one another. It truly felt like a celebration of unity and compassion.”

Beyond the celebrations, the experience also changed his perspective on Ramadan.

“I learned a lot about the significance of fasting and the spirit of togetherness during Ramadan. The stories shared by the beneficiaries really touched me and gave me a new perspective on how Ramadan brings people closer.”

His final message to those celebrating Ramadan was simple yet powerful.

“I would like to wish everyone a blessed and meaningful Ramadan. May it be filled with love, peace, and new experiences that bring people closer together.”

A Night That Leaves a Lasting Impact

Ceria Ramadan Fest is proof that a little kindness goes a long way. It’s about more than just breaking fast together. It’s about creating a space where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and connected.

This year, the event brought together beneficiaries, volunteers, international students, and people of different faiths and backgrounds, proving that the true spirit of Ramadan is about unity, generosity, and love.