Postpartum care is influenced by both traditional beliefs and contemporary health care practices. This paper explores mothers' perception of food served in the maternity ward of government hospitals, perception of breastfeeding in public and its relation to postpartum wellness, and the role of Baby Friendly Hospital Initiatives (BFHI) in the promotion of breastfeeding. The respondents for this study were 10 Malay mothers aged between 20 and 40 from different educational levels. They adhered to food restrictions based on the hot-cold theory in their postpartum period. The findings indicate that hospitals, though providing a well-balanced diet, should not ignore traditional dietary practices. This is useful for policy makers, programme managers and health care service providers to provide culturally sensitive health-care interventions. Acceptance of public breastfeeding with discretion is evident among Malay mothers and Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative is recognised.