KUCHING: Tomorrow marks the first day of Ramadan for Muslims to fulfill their ‘ibadah’ (servitude).
For many Muslims in the state, they will observe the fasting month with their family members while for some, they will observe fasting away from their hometown.
Speaking to the New Sarawak Tribune, Norsyamimi Yusof Damak, 24, said this is the first year that she is marking the first day of ‘puasa’ away from her family in Belawai, Mukah.
“I got the opportunities to ‘berbuka puasa’ and ‘sahur’ with my family during the pandemic era. Also, I had the chance to help mom prepare the food, clean the house and the most exciting part is ‘terawih’ together with my parents.
“Even though I am far away from my family, I am still excited because Ramadan is a special month. I cannot wait to reunite with my family during Hari Raya.
“I am looking forward to all of the delicious food, especially satay and coconut shake because I rather enjoy the chaotic, cheerful atmosphere than eating at home since I am living alone,” she said.
The event planner also said that despite her busy schedule she avoids sweet drinks during ‘sahur’ and drinks plain water as much as possible so she will not get tired easily,” she said.
As for Morizzatul Farah Mortada, 24, Ramadan is a month she has been waiting for.
Just like Norsyamimi, she also spends her first day of Ramadan away from her family since she is in Penang.
“This is not my first time being away from the family during Ramadan, during COVID-19 I cannot cross the state and have to stay in the college with my friends.
“The difference now is we get to go out and buy meals from the bazaar and eat outside.
“Ramadan is the most holy month for me. So it will be such a blessing if all of us can perform better prayers, ‘terawih’, practice self-discipline and self-control, show respect, dress appropriately, and encourage unity,” she added.
Meanwhile, 26-year-old Fatin Bakip said the fasting season for this year will be very challenging because of the erratic weather.
“Our Ramadan is a little different from last year because we are being extra vigilant since my house area and cars are affected by the recent flood.
“During the fasting season, I always spend my ‘iftar’ with my friends and families. When it was Movement Control Order (MCO), it was a bit dull because we did not get to see many stalls, but this year I see many sellers at the Ramadan bazaar.
“Since the pandemic is gone and we are a lot better now, our locals can sell varieties of food and drinks with a lot of choices for us to enjoy during the iftar,” she added.
Fatin told New Sarawak Tribune that it has become a norm for her family to buy dates a month earlier because they would not want to miss breaking of fast without any dates.
“Our preparation is simple considering that this year’s Ramadan coincides with the school session,” Fatin said.
