Ramadan is nearly upon and different countries welcome it in different ways Photo National Today
World – Ramadan is a significant and special time for Muslims all over the world. During this month, Muslims observe fasting from sunrise to sunset, increase their prayers, give to charity, and try to better their lives. Ramadan is celebrated in different ways by different countries, each with their own unique customs and traditions.
With less than two weeks to go before Ramadan, many countries are preparing for the blessed month. Shelves and refrigerators are being packed with different sauces, dates and savouries. Countries like Egypt prepare weeks in advance for the blessed month. In fact, more than 11,000 mosques will be open for tahajjud (a voluntary prayer done usually when ⅓ of the night is over) prayer. With more than 6,000 for itikaf (an Islamic practice of staying in a mosque for a certain number of days during Ramadan, devoting oneself to worship) during the holy month of Ramadan in Egypt.
Egypt has gone on a campaign to ensure the mosques are spotless. Hisham Abdel Aziz Ali, a ministry official, led the campaign with the cleaning of Cairo’s Sayyidah Nafisa Mosque. Together with this, the government is planning on having mosques hold lessons throughout the month in an effort to revive Islam within the country.
Egyptians also decorate the streets and their houses hanging what is called a Fanous, a traditional lantern made of coloured glass or metal that has been used for centuries, in the streets. This creates an atmosphere like nothing else and brings the community together.
The famous Egyptian Fanous which is hung in every street Photo Family Holiday
Indonesia’s preparation for Ramadan
Indonesia is the world’s largest Muslim-majority country and Ramadan is a very special time for Indonesians. Just like Egypt, preparation for the sacred month begins several weeks in advance. There are different religious and cultural things that take place.
One of the most significant and important preparations is the creation of the ‘takjil’ stalls which provide food and drinks for those who are breaking their fast. These are normally set up outside of mosques or on the side of the roads. They are unique to Indonesia and a symbol of their Ramadan culture.
The Takjil stall in Indonesia Photo Okezone
Indonesians prepare for Ramadan by cooking and baking traditional dishes such as “Bubur Lambuk,” a savoury rice porridge, and “Soto,” a spicy soup. These dishes are often prepared in large quantities and shared with family, friends, and neighbours throughout the month.
The famous Bubur Lambuk Photo Kuali
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Malaysia’s preparation for the blessed month
Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country. As such, the Ramadan atmosphere is very much filled within the country. They also prepare weeks in advance for the month and they have their own traditions as well.
If you go to Malaysia during the blessed month you will find what they call Ramadan bazaars. These bustling markets sell a wide variety of food and drinks. They are usually set up in open areas, such as parks or empty parking lots, and are a popular place for Malaysians to gather with friends and family.
The Ramadan Bazaar in Malaysia Photo Tatler
Furthermore, their streets and houses are also decorated during the holy month. Streets and homes are lit up with colourful lights, banners, and Islamic calligraphy to bring out that Ramadan atmosphere. Men and women also go out and buy traditional outfits which are called “baju kurung” for women and “baju melayu” for men.
Finally, Malaysians prepare for Ramadan by cooking and baking traditional dishes such as “Nasi Briyani,” a fragrant rice dish with spices and meat, and “Kuih Muih,” a variety of sweet and savoury snacks. These dishes are often prepared in large quantities and shared with family, friends, and neighbours throughout the month.
The famous sweet dish Kuih Muih Photo Reddit
Ramadan is special for each and every country. With every country having their own traditions and festivities. One thing is important, it is not about the decorations or the food that is prepared but one must prepare their mind for this blessed month. While the month draws near and our hearts feel happier, our minds must be clear and we must be prepared to use this month to change our lives for the better.
