MELAKA: Hotels here are banking on the start of Ramadan next month to bring in foreign visitors as they ready themselves for the country’s borders to reopen on April 1.

       Most are hoping to capitalise on Ramadan buffets to woo these guests as the holy month starts in early April.

       Ames Hotel director of catering and events Carol Fok said her management is hoping its Ramadan buffet would attract foreign and outstation guests.

       “Our Ramadan buffets are popular and affordable. This year, we hope for more buka puasa (breaking fast) events at our hotel,” she said yesterday.

       Hatten Hotel is also gearing up for Ramadan, with its buffet including traditional dishes targeting local and foreign visitors.

       Its executive chef Kok Yew Nin has been busy preparing the menu in anticipation of the arrival of overseas guests in a few weeks.

       Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Melaka chapter chairman Goh Hock Gin said travel agents in the state are eager to serve foreign tourists.

       “We have been waiting for international borders to reopen and it’s a big relief for the industry,” he said.

       Jonker Walk management committee deputy chairman Datuk Gan Tian Loo said the reopening will boost the morale of hawkers at the iconic night market.