TORONTO, May 25 (Reuters) - Hundreds of fans draped in the colours of countries from across the globe gathered outside Toronto's city hall on Monday to catch a glimpse of the World Cup trophy, offering a preview of the multicultural spectacle the city promises to deliver when the tournament kicks off next month.
FIFA fever: A restaurant staff checking a screen newly installed for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 in Petaling Jaya. — AZHAR MAHFOF/The StarWith the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicking off in less than three weeks, mamak restaurants are set to turn into “stadiums” with fans packing in to catch the live action, says Malaysian Muslim Restaurant Owners Association president Datuk Mohamed Mosin Abdul Razak .
“Watching football at mamak restaurants has become part of Malaysian culture. Some outlets are upgrading to larger LED screens and projector systems to create a stadium-like atmosphere.
“Others are improving sound systems, adding extra tables and chairs, and preparing outdoor viewing areas to accommodate larger crowds,” he said when contacted. The association, which represents more than 8,000 mamak eatery operators nationwide, include restaurants, cafes and catering businesses. Mohamed Mosin said many outlets, mainly in urban areas, operated round the clock or until late night, with over half of major mamak restaurants maintaining extended operating hours as part of their regular business model.
“For this World Cup, we are also seeing operators who normally close around midnight planning to extend their operations until early morning, especially during knockout-stage matches involving popular teams such as Brazil, Argentina, England and Portugal. ” He said live football traditionally brought a surge of late-night customers, turning mamak outlets into viewing hubs.
Operators in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Johor Baru and Penang were also expected to increase staffing and extend kitchen operations throughout the night to manage things during peak matches.
“Some restaurants are planning football-themed combo meals, group packages and special supper promotions. We also see menu items inspired by football stars and participating countries. ” Mohamed Mosin said promotions such as lucky draws and score predictions were also common during the tournament period. Beyond business, he said mamak outlets have also witnessed memorable occasions through the years, such as when customers of various races celebrated goals and victories together.
“Dramatic matches often trigger emotional reactions among fans. There are exuberant celebrations and heartbreaking silences, after penalty shootouts or last-minute goals. Fans also come wearing jerseys in friendly Malaysian spirit. ” Mohamed Mosin said mamak restaurants remained central to Malaysia’s football culture, serving as social spaces.
“The combination of affordable food, late operating hours, large screens and relaxed atmosphere makes mamak restaurants the perfect spot for football fans,” he added. The FIFA World Cup from June 11 to July 19 will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, with 48 teams participating.
Mamak Presma Mohamed Mosin Abdul Razak
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