Ramadhan is a month of spiritual reflection for Muslims. They refrain from eating, drinking and smoking during the fasting hours to test their spiritual devotion and discipline. Being in Malaysia, a multicultural country – we are aware of our Muslim brothers and sisters’ faith during the holy month. Since it is an auspicious month of heightened spirituality, it is best for all of use to observe more discretion and increased sensitivity.
Here’s a list of do’s and don’ts non-Muslims should remember during Ramadhan.
1. Refrain from drinking or eating in front of your Muslim peers, even if they tell you it’s okay. It’s a sign of respect and you’d like people to do the same if you were on a diet, right?
2. Join the fast if you can! Taking part in the fast with your Muslim peers can encourage them to stay focused on their fast. How To Control Your Hunger During Ramadhan
3. When dining with your Muslim peers to ‘buka puasa’, refrain from eating your food or drinking beverage as you wait for them to break fast.
4. Wish your Muslims friends ‘Ramadan Kareem’ when they’re about to break fast or head home to dine with their family. Patience and courteousness is really appreciated during the month of Ramadhan.
5. Dress conservatively during Ramadhan. Avoid wearing anything that shows your cleavage when you’re with your friends, or wear a skirt that’s too short. Dress sensibly.
6. Ramadhan bazaars are one thing to look forward to during the fasting month. When visiting the bazaars, do not eat or drink the things you’ve bought it in the company of other Muslims. Go home and do it in the privacy of your own home.
7. Be courteous during Ramadhan bazaars and queue in line. There’ll be a lot of food to try, but remember that the priority should be for those who plan to break fast. If you can’t get what you want, just stop by another day. Don’t Overindulge This Festive Season
8. Do not litter during Ramadhan bazaars. If you know what you intend to pack, simply bring your own tupperware to pack. Encourage your friends to do so too to cut down on waste.
9. If you live a busy lifestyle and tend to do everything on-the-move, including eat and drink, avoid doing so. It’s fine to hold your food and drinks, but be courteous and avoid consuming it in the company of others.
10. This one’s tricky – If you’re a non-Muslim that occasionally gets mistaken for a Muslim at an eatery, politely tell them that you are not a Muslim. There is no need to get offended.
