Malaysia
Mosques
The Historical Masjid India Muslim Ipoh, Perak
Back in the early 19th century, Ipoh was one of the oldest towns in Malaysia known for its booming tin mining industry. Its blossoming success has attracted many immigrants - including the population group of South Indian Muslims. Their presence has left a huge impact on the customs, food, and culture of the local communities and it was then that the “Mamak” culture grew in popularity - a term widely used to describe the confluence of Indian and Malay mores in Malaysia. As offering prayers is one of the compulsory duties that must be carried out by Muslims, it was then essential for the South Indian Muslims to establish a place for gathering and performing their ritual obligations.
The Historical Masjid India Muslim Ipoh, Perak
According to history, several minor disputes between the local Malay Muslims and the South Indian Muslims have led to the construction of this mosque. The cause of the disputes was likely due to the differences in the way the praying rituals are performed as both follow differing schools of fiqh: Shafiʽi and Hanafi.
This simple yet elegant mosque is known to the locals as the Town Padang Mosque. The name describes its location which is opposite Ipoh Padang – a public playing field next to the St. Michael’s Institution.
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| The Historical Masjid India Muslim Ipoh, Perak |
Masjid India Muslim Ipoh was constructed in 1905 by Indian workmen brought in as labor by a wealthy Indian Muslim tycoon by the name of Shaik Adam Mohammad Ghaus. He was the founder of Kinta Ice Works and Kinta Aerated Water Factory, and was believed to be the sole supplier of ice in the town at that time.
Built at a cost of RM500,000, the mosque was completed in 1908 with a design that was heavily influenced by the Diwan-i-Khas at the Red Fort in Delhi which is a reflection of “Chitya Indian” or Moghul-style architecture. The rectangle-shaped building has a flat terraced roof and verandas on its sides. One of the more distinct features are the scallop cusped arches that are built all around the mosque.
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| There are two pointed minarets and a single pyramidal dome that caps the prayer hall. |
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| The scallop cusped arches are just one of the many unique features of the mosque. |
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| A separate square entrance gateway leads into the mosque compound. The overall mosque is painted white with strokes of green lining. |
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| Stepping into the mosque reveals an interior that is embellished with beautiful Arabesque based geometric and floral Islamic design tiles that can be seen decorating the walls and pillars. |
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| Floral Islamic design can be seen on the tiles around the mosque |
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| The floors are covered with bright red carpet lined with white and yellow markers. |
The frontal area of the prayer hall houses the mihrab or a chamber niche that is directed towards Mecca - which is the center direction for prayer. A wooden pulpit or mimbar is placed on the right where the leader of prayer delivers his sermon. As the mosque caters to the Indian Muslim devotees, the sermon is conducted in Tamil. A tall, grandfather clock on the left side of the mihrab tells the time through the round, wall mounted clock built at the top.
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| Not to be missed is the gigantic chandelier hooked to the sculptured plaster ceiling. |
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| Another interesting feature within the mosque is the green, spiral staircase with gold-painted wrought iron railing. |
At the left corner, visitors can find a medium-sized table and a cabinet that are used to display plaques and commemorative items received by the mosque. The natural sunlight brightens the mosque during the day through its long, square-trimmed framed window.
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| Interiors of Masjid India Muslim Ipoh |
The place for ablution is always placed at the back. The same rules apply at Masjid India Muslim Ipoh where the semi-circular walls with mounted water taps are located at the very end just outside of the prayer hall.
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| A dedicated area for ablution located at the back of the mosque |
Masjid India Muslim Ipoh or the Shaik Adam’s Mosque has been listed as one of Malaysia’s heritage site under the National Heritage Act, 2005. Today, it still stands strong serving the minor Indian Muslim community in Malaysia, specifically of the Hanafi fiqh teachings.
Is Ipoh your next destination in Malaysia? Make sure to add the historical Masjid India Muslim to your must-visit list!
Masjid India Muslim Ipoh
Address: Jalan Seenivasagam, 30450 Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan
Contact No: +605-254 1978 | Facebook
Email: masjidindiaipoh786@gmail.com
For related article, click here.
Malaysia
Travel
The village of Wang Kelian was previously a very popular destination among tourists as there was a market located right on the Malaysia-Thailand border. However, its popularity has dipped in 2015 when death camps and mass graves were discovered in the dense jungles here where human trafficking took place.
9 Breathtaking Natural Attractions of Perlis
Who says Perlis is boring?
The smallest state in Malaysia lies north of the Peninsular west coast just beneath the Thai province of Satun. Besides its beautiful mosques such as Masjid Alwi Kangar and the floating Masjid Al Hussain Kuala Perlis, it is also home to Gua Kelam - a historical cave that was once an important mining center under the British administration in Malaya. For those who thrive on spending time in the outdoors and observing the wildlife, Perlis also offers countless amazing natural attractions that cannot be found anywhere else in the region. Use this list to help you plan your trip to this beautiful destination on your next visit to West Malaysia!
9 Breathtaking Natural Attractions of Perlis
Lar Gibbon
More commonly known as the white-handed gibbon or Ungka Tangan Putih locally, this primate can be found across southwest China, East Myanmar, Thailand, Sumatra and West Malaysia. In Perlis, they are concentrated around Banjaran Nakawan - a series of mountains and hills ranged in a line connected on elevated grounds.
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| Haven't seen a Lar Gibbon? Head over to Banjaran Nakawan in Perlis to test your luck! |
Wang Kelian
You can have the view of the entire state of Perlis from the summit of Wang Kelian. This destination is popular among nature lovers as it is a great place to observe animals such as the Stump-Tailed Macaques that can only be found in Perlis and parts of southern Thailand.The village of Wang Kelian was previously a very popular destination among tourists as there was a market located right on the Malaysia-Thailand border. However, its popularity has dipped in 2015 when death camps and mass graves were discovered in the dense jungles here where human trafficking took place.
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| Beautiful limestone outcrops of Wang Kelian, Perlis |
Bukit Chabang
As one of the most iconic limestone in Perlis, Bukit Chabang is home to many species of animals and the favorite stopover for migratory birds thanks to the evergreen landscape and virgin forest that surrounds it. The 390-meter high Bukit Chabang is one of the best hiking spots in Perlis which takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. Despite the short hike, the rocky and steep trail can be an exciting challenge for avid hikers and adventurous visitors.Bukit Keteri
Bukit Keteri is a limestone formation estimated to be over 250 million years old. It is known to many hikers as the Belly Button as it has a difficulty grade of 8B+, making it one of the more interesting hiking destinations across the region. Within the limestone, you can find a cave as wide as a football field and at the peak, hikers will be rewarded with a scenic view of the surrounding paddy fields. |
| Bukit Keteri in Perlis is surrounded by picturesque paddy fields. |
Migratory Birds
Asian Openbill Storks (Anastomus Oscitans) or the Burung Botak Upeh are migrating birds from southern Asia. They arrive at Perlis in the mid of March each year and feed on the Siput Gondang Emas, simultaneously helping local farmers to get rid of the pests. These particular birds are commonly found foraging in inland wetlands or on agricultural landscapes such as irrigation canals, seasonal marshes or crop fields. |
| Perlis is famous for birdwatching, and among that birds that you may see here are the Asian Openbill Storks, Common Flamebacks, Laced Woodpeckers, and the Pied Trillers. |
Rare Dolphin Species
There are hundreds of dolphins sighted approximately 3 kilometres from the shores of Kuala Perlis all the way to Kuala Sanglang, including the Indo Pacific Humpbacks, Porpoise and Irrawaddy. Bottlenose dolphins as big as 3m to 4m can also be sighted here! |
| Don't forget to go on a dolphin sighting tour the next time you are in Perlis! |
Kuala Perlis
Perlis is blessed with a bountiful marine life that has become a source of food for the locals, such as menterang (pholas), kerang (clams) and prawns. Many travelers have made Kuala Perlis their must-visit destination here to witness the most beautiful sunset from the shores, with the distant but noticeable Langkawi island in the background. |
| Spectacular sunset at Kuala Perlis |
Wang Gunung
The peak of the 500 million-year-old Wang Gunung limestone stands at 499 metres above ground level and is located within the Nakawan Range. You will be rewarded with the breathtaking panoramic view of Perlis and Satun (the southernmost province of Thailand) when you make the climb! |
| Wang Gunung in Perlis is 500 million years old! |
Nocturnal Owls
There are many species of nocturnal birds in Perlis, and the most popular one is the Barn Owl or known scientifically as the Tyto Alba Javanica. The natural habitat of these birds is within the caves located close to paddy fields as it allows them to hunt for food easily. |
| Can't get enough of birds? You might want to add Barn Owls onto your bird-watching list! |
Perlis may be small, but it is undeniably one of the most unique state in Malaysia that is worth a short stopover. Happy travelling!
Read also: 10 Must-Try Local Food in Perlis
For related articles, click here.
Malaysia
Mosques
Travel
A Mosque Built Using Egg Whites: Masjid Alwi Kangar, Perlis
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| A Mosque Built Using Egg Whites: Masjid Alwi Kangar, Perlis |
A trip to Perlis will not be complete without a brief stopover at Masjid Alwi Kangar - one of the state’s major landmarks with a significant history.
Masjid Alwi Kangar is named after Raja Syed Alwi Ibni Almarhum Tuan Syed Saffi Jamalullail - the King of Perlis at the time of construction. Its erection began in 1931 after sufficient funds were collected since the early 1920s. The mosque was completed approximately three years later in 1933 with its grand opening being officiated by the King. In 1988, Masjid Alwi was declared a national heritage in Malaysia.
Unique Architecture of Masjid Alwi Kangar
The remarkability and beauty of the mosque lie beyond its striking classic Mughal architecture that was perfected by craftsmen brought in from India, but also in its rather surprising construction materials: egg white and sand. Due to the unusual building materials required, the mosque took 3 years to complete as a lot of time was spent on sourcing them. Today, the mosque still stands strong and proud even without having any concrete support.
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| The building materials of Masjid Alwi Kangar include egg whites and sand mixtures |
A Symbol of Muslim Unity in Perlis
Masjid Alwi Kangar was successfully constructed thanks to the collective donation by Muslim businessmen, tithes (zakat), and allocation by the State Government. The local community also organised small-scale donation drives to assist with the funding efforts, and the construction finally began after over a decade when enough funds were gathered.
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| Masjid Alwi Kangar is a symbol of Muslim unity in Perlis |
The Oldest Mosque in Perlis
Located in the heart of the capital, Masjid Alwi is a stone’s throw away from many other Perlis landmarks such as the Kangar Clock Tower, Muzium Kangar, Galeri Seni Piring Hitam, as well as the colonial State Secretariat Building. Thanks to this, going on a day tour to discover Perlis is a breeze and more time can be spent on admiring the preserved beauty of these buildings rather than on traveling.
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| Masjid Alwi Kangar is the oldest mosque in Perlis |
Masjid Alwi Kangar, Perlis
Facebook | Email: masjidalwirasmi@gmail.com
Address: Persiaran Jubli Emas, 01000 Kangar, Perlis
Contact number: 04-970 5335
For related articles, please click here.
Events/Products
Malaysia
Malaysia’s first drive-in cinema has launched in Kuala Lumpur and moviegoers can now watch their favorite movies in the comfort, safety and privacy of their own vehicles!
The concept is the result of an idea to reinvent entertainment that caters to the new norm. It creates an opportunity for people to enjoy a movie with a cup of their favorite coffee or tea - all while practicing social distancing.
Standard package: RM99 per car (maximum 2 pax)
VIP package: RM159 per car (maximum 2 pax)
*Ticket prices include 2 meals per car.
For full movies and showtimes, please click here.
Private screenings and corporate arrangements are also available. Nescafe M-Junction Drive-In Cinema is a joint effort between TwoSpicy Entertainment Live and MD Events Asia. For inquiries or further information, please visit www.mjunction.my or call +60322826413 / +60176531929.
109, Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Website | Facebook | Instagram
+60322826413 / +60176531929
M-Junction Location & Ticket Price: Malaysia's First Drive-In Cinema
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| M-Junction Location & Ticket Price: Malaysia's First Drive-In Cinema |
Malaysia’s first drive-in cinema has launched in Kuala Lumpur and moviegoers can now watch their favorite movies in the comfort, safety and privacy of their own vehicles!
Nescafe M-Junction Drive-In Cinema, Kuala Lumpur
The Nescafe M-Junction Drive-In Cinema kicked off at the Malaysia Tourism Center (MATIC) located at Jalan Ampang in the heart of the city. It is a 3-month temporary attraction which can accommodate up to 50 cars at a time and it features both local and international movies on a LED screen measuring 4x9 meters.The concept is the result of an idea to reinvent entertainment that caters to the new norm. It creates an opportunity for people to enjoy a movie with a cup of their favorite coffee or tea - all while practicing social distancing.
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| M-Junction drive-in cinema is located at Jalan Ampang in the heart of Kuala Lumpur city |
Safety Measures at M-Junction
Social distancing and other safety regulations are strictly observed here in accordance to the government regulation, and only 2 visitors are allowed per car. Before entering the allocated movie screening area, visitors will have their temperature checked at the entrance. |
| Visitors will have go through temperature screening at the entrance of M-Junction cinema |
How Does It Work?
Each car will be given a number that indicates a preassigned parking lot. Once parked, a team will install a portable speaker in the car for direct audio transmission. |
| Smaller cars will be directed to the front, where bigger ones such as SUVs and trucks will be asked to park at the last row |
Do I Turn off My Car Air-Conditioning?
In its efforts to promote the reduction of carbon dioxide emission, M-Junction encourages visitors to turn off their car radio and AC system for the duration of the movie by providing each car with two rechargeable handheld fansHow Do I Order Food?
Each car will be given a QR code for cashless online orders. In order to avoid queues and minimise contact, food and drinks will be delivered to the car. |
| There is a Nescafe booth at the car park where visitors can order their favorite coffee and tea to accompany their movie experience |
Ticket Prices for M-Junction Drive-In Cinema
Standard package: RM99 per car (maximum 2 pax)VIP package: RM159 per car (maximum 2 pax)
*Ticket prices include 2 meals per car.
Showtimes for M-Junction Drive-In Cinema
There are two movies screened daily at 7.00PM and 9.55PM. Visitors must arrive 30 minutes before the movie starts for check-in and screening purposes.For full movies and showtimes, please click here.
Private screenings and corporate arrangements are also available. Nescafe M-Junction Drive-In Cinema is a joint effort between TwoSpicy Entertainment Live and MD Events Asia. For inquiries or further information, please visit www.mjunction.my or call +60322826413 / +60176531929.
Nescafe M-Junction Drive-In Cinema
Malaysia Tourism Centre (MaTiC)109, Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Website | Facebook | Instagram
+60322826413 / +60176531929
For other related articles, click here.
Restaurant Reviews
Casual Italian Dining at Passione Ristorante Italiano, Sri Petaling
Looking for good Italian food at affordable prices around Sri Petaling? Passione Ristorante Italiano is the place to go!
Note: Passione Ristorante Italiano serves alcohol and pork, but the team is kind enough to hand-pick their best pork-free dishes for me during my visit.
Note: Passione Ristorante Italiano serves alcohol and pork, but the team is kind enough to hand-pick their best pork-free dishes for me during my visit.
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| Casual Italian Dining at Passione Ristorante Italiano, Sri Petaling |
Casual Italian Dining at Passione Ristorante Italiano, Sri Petaling
Passione takes pride in capturing and understanding the quintessential spirit of Italian cooking. It brings together the creativity in modern gastronomy with traditional recipes in its fusion offerings. The signature dishes here are mostly pork-based which differentiates it from other Italian restaurants in town. |
| Casual Italian Dining at Passione Ristorante Italiano, Sri Petaling |
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| Bar corner at Passione Ristorante Italiano, Sri Petaling |
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| Bar corner at Passione Ristorante Italiano, Sri Petaling |
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| Passione Ristorante Italiano is a two-storey restaurant at Sri Petaling |
Iconic Wood-Fired Pizzas
As you step into Passione, your eyes will immediately be drawn to the mighty brick oven that is responsible for perfecting the restaurant’s iconic 400˚C scented wood fired pizzas. Harking back to the Italian traditions of preparing pizzas, Passione emulates the method by firing up the oven with high heat at even distribution to achieve impeccable caramelisation of the ingredients while infusing a natural smoky aroma. |
| Signature 400˚C scented wood fired pizzas at Passione Ristorante Italiano, Sri Petaling |
Fresh Pasta Made Daily
The fresh pasta at Passione is made from scratch daily and is never pre-packed. Remember to ask for their prized Pasta ala Chitarra - a treasured specialty that is prepared using a guitar-like instrument for a more porous texture and broader width that enables it to better absorb sauces thoroughly for a rich, flavorful pasta dish.Besides its pasta, here are a few other dishes we sampled at Passione Ristorante Italiano, Sri Petaling:
Passione Ristorante Italiano Menu & Price
Our casual dining experience at Passione was thoughtfully designed by its manager to cater to our pork-free request. Having said that, Passione is famous for its pork-based selections such as its cold cuts and crackling Berkshire. Do check them out if that’s what you’d prefer!
Our intimate meal for two started off with creamy mushroom soup infused with aromatic truffle oil. Next comes the main courses: Seafood Linguine and Prawn Bisque that got us drowning in all the incredible shellfish flavors. We were definitely not leaving without giving one of its pizzas a try, and were delighted with the piping hot and incredibly cheesy Pizza Quattro Formaggi. The deal was sealed with an off-menu dessert item: a classic Tiramisu cake that’s baked for sharing.
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| Mushroom Soup (RM20) Classic Italian wild mushroom soup |
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| Seafood Linguine (RM35) Homemade linguine with fresh clams, shrimps, squids and scallops served in infusion garlic and chili oil |
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| Prawn Bisque (RM35) Creamy bisque with grilled prawns & caviar |
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| Pizza 4 Formaggi (RM35) Chef’s selection of 4 Italian cheeses with cream and tomato sauce. |
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| Off-menu sweet bites: Tiramisu Cake |
Overall, we had an enjoyable casual meal at Passione Ristorante Italiano and truly enjoyed the laidback atmosphere in the middle of bustling Sri Petaling. I definitely recommend the pizzas as the crust is baked to perfection. However, the seafood dishes could have been even better if the ingredients are fresher and picked more selectively. Most of its diners swear by the pork-based dishes, so remember to give them a go while you're here!
Malaysia
Restaurant Reviews
Halal Chinese Food at Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant
Looking for the best halal restaurants in Putrajaya? Be sure to check out Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant!
Read also: Malaysia's Most Iconic Mosque: Masjid Putra Putrajaya
During my visit, we had the opportunity to try a few classic favorites such as fried rice, stir-fried meat and vegetables and of course, a rich, savory soup to seal the deal. Every dish here comes in three sizes at different prices - simply choose one according to the number of people dining with you. Not sure how much to order? Ask the waiter to recommend and customize the best serving size for you!
Those dining in groups can opt for a more economical banquet set meal that will also take away the stress of choosing from its elaborate menu. The dishes and prices included in the packages are as follow:
Contact no.: +603 8889 1188
Opening hours: 12-2:30pm, 6-10pm
For related articles, click here.
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| Halal Chinese Food at Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant |
Halal Chinese Food at Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant
Helmed by award-winning chefs, Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant takes pride in preparing delectable seafood dishes tailored to the preferences of its diners: grilled, poached, fried, sauteed or deviled. It is one of the few halal establishments belonging to the eminent Tai Thong chain of Chinese restaurants. With a goal to preserve the rich traditions of Chinese cuisine, Tai Thong has long been known for its exquisite offering of traditional Cantonese specialties.Read also: Malaysia's Most Iconic Mosque: Masjid Putra Putrajaya
Dining by the Lake
Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant overlooks a man made lake in Taman Botani Putrajaya that promises to elevate dining experience with a picturesque view, serene atmosphere and relaxing cool breeze away from the bustling city. |
| Outdoor seating area at Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant |
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| This halal Chinese restaurant in Putrajaya overlooks a man made lake |
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| Indoor seating is also available at Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant |
Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant Menu & Price
The restaurant specializes in halal Chinese dishes. While the food is undeniably delicious and on par with authentic Chinese restaurants, the price is slightly higher but well compensated with the amazing environment that is unlike any other.During my visit, we had the opportunity to try a few classic favorites such as fried rice, stir-fried meat and vegetables and of course, a rich, savory soup to seal the deal. Every dish here comes in three sizes at different prices - simply choose one according to the number of people dining with you. Not sure how much to order? Ask the waiter to recommend and customize the best serving size for you!
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| Stir Fried Squid with Salted Egg Yolk (RM35, RM50, RM65) |
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| Seafood Fried Rice (RM20, RM30, RM40) |
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| Foo Yong Egg (RM20, RM30, RM40) |
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| Crab Meat Broth with Sweet Corn (RM18) |
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| Stir Fried Nai Park with Oyster Sauce (RM30, RM40, RM50) |
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| Stir Fried Clams with Black Pepper Sauce (RM35, RM50, RM65) |
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| Stir Fried Black Pepper Chicken (RM28, RM42, RM56) |
Those dining in groups can opt for a more economical banquet set meal that will also take away the stress of choosing from its elaborate menu. The dishes and prices included in the packages are as follow:
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| Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant menu & price |
The next time you are in Putrajaya, remember to drop by the Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant for delicious halal Chinese cuisine!
Putrajaya Seafood Restaurant
Taman Botani Putrajaya, Precinct 1, 62000 PutrajayaContact no.: +603 8889 1188
Opening hours: 12-2:30pm, 6-10pm
For related articles, click here.
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