KUCHING: Today, six days into the month of Ramadan, many Muslims have already adapted to the so-called ‘new normal’ that came about due to the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic. Even the movement control order (MCO) is beginning to feel like part of that new normal.
Fasting is tough enough in the best of times, so one can imagine how much harder it is under the movement control order (MCO). And yet many Muslims (oddly enough) have managed to find the positive side of their burden including the chance to spend more time with their families, perform ‘solat terawikh’ at home, prepare home-cooked meals together, and more.
Nadia Shaferi, 33, executive secretary
‘As much as I feel nostalgic when I pass by the locations of the annual Ramadan bazaars, I am equally glad that Muslims are forced not to overspend on food and other things.’
Muhammad Razziq, 24, student
‘We are beginning to get used to the MCO, so its impact is not so hard to bear. Anyway, abiding by government-made rules is not so different from obeying the rules governing fasting.’
Hamidah Pauzi, 38, marketing executive
‘Muslims don’t have big problems with Ramadan bazaars not being allowed to operate. As long as there is no cure for Covid-19, we are okay with the new normal.’
Hazirah Abu Bakar, 24, entrepreneur
‘The new normal will just become normal when everyone is into it even though we feel sad that we can’t get together this year. But it’s for the best.’
Abang Abdul Rahzim, 34, tuition teacher
‘MCO during Ramadan means zero food wastage. Feels strange not being able to go to the mosque, but praying at home with the family feels much better.’
Muhamad Rikhan Shadriq Madeli, 24 , Teacher
‘Many Muslims fear the new normal might affect Islamic practices, but now they are okay with it because it’s necessary to defeat Covid-19.’
