Ramadan in Malaysia: A Time of Reflection, Community, and Festivities 🌙🕌🍽️

Ramadan is one of the most significant months in Malaysia, where the majority Muslim population observes fasting from dawn to dusk. But beyond abstaining from food and drink, Ramadan in Malaysia is a time of spiritual reflection, community bonding, and of course, delicious food when the sun sets.

The Atmosphere During Ramadan

If you are an expat in Malaysia, you will quickly notice how the whole country adapts during Ramadan. Offices may have shorter working hours, shopping malls play calming religious tunes, and restaurants are noticeably quieter during the day. But as the sun sets, the streets come alive with people heading to mosques for prayers or gathering for the much-anticipated buka puasa or iftar, which is the breaking of fast.

Even if you are not fasting, it is good to be mindful and respectful during this period. Many locals appreciate it when expats show cultural awareness, whether by refraining from eating in front of fasting colleagues or joining them for iftar.

The Magic of Ramadan Bazaars

One of the best parts of Ramadan in Malaysia is the Ramadan bazaars, which are temporary street markets that appear in neighbourhoods across the country. These bazaars are packed with food stalls selling a mouth-watering array of traditional Malaysian delights.

From savoury treats like murtabak, which is a stuffed pancake, ayam percik, which is grilled spiced chicken, and nasi kerabu, which is blue rice with herbs, to sweet favourites like tepung pelita, which is a layered coconut and pandan dessert, and air kathira, which is a refreshing drink with basil seeds and dates, these bazaars are a feast for the senses.

Even if you are not fasting, visiting a Ramadan bazaar is a must. But be warned that it gets crowded, so it is best to go early.

Breaking Fast: A Moment of Togetherness

When the call to prayer marks Maghrib, which is sunset, Muslims break their fast, often starting with kurma, which are dates, and water before moving on to a full meal. Families gather at home, while others opt for buffet-style iftar at hotels or join community events at mosques.

If you are invited to an iftar gathering, it is a great opportunity to experience Malaysian hospitality. Just remember that it is polite to wait for your host to break their fast before you start eating.

The Last Ten Days and Eid Preparation

As Ramadan progresses, you might notice more people spending their nights at mosques for tarawih prayers. The last ten nights of Ramadan are particularly significant, with many seeking Laylatul Qadr, which is the holiest night in Islam.

Meanwhile, the excitement for Hari Raya Aidilfitri, also known as Eid, starts building. People shop for new clothes, bake traditional kuih, which are cookies, and make travel plans to balik kampung, which means returning to their hometowns. The end of Ramadan brings a nationwide celebration, with open houses, festive feasts, and warm greetings of Selamat Hari Raya.

Experiencing Ramadan as an Expat

Ramadan in Malaysia is a unique experience, even for non-Muslims. It is a time when people slow down, focus on gratitude, and strengthen connections with family and community. If you are an expat, why not join in? Visit a Ramadan bazaar, attend an iftar, or simply observe the cultural shifts around you.

At Malaysian Link, we help expats immerse themselves in Malaysia’s rich traditions. Whether it is guiding you through a Ramadan bazaar, introducing you to local customs, or arranging cultural experiences, we are here to make your stay in Malaysia more meaningful.

📷: Hapiz Rosli