Ramadan Reflections: Nourishing Community Bonds from Malaysia to Queenstown

Habib Ali and Syahida Hizul, a couple in Auckland, reflect on their Ramadan experiences in Malaysia, emphasizing the significance of community bonding over food, particularly through traditional dishes like bubur lambuk. They strive to recreate the lively atmosphere of Ramadan in New Zealand by hosting iftar gatherings at their café, encouraging cultural understanding and togetherness among friends and community members.

During Ramadan, traditional Malaysian rice porridge called bubur lambuk becomes available, signifying the Islamic month of fasting and worship for many. As Habib Ali and Syahida Hizul reminisce about their experiences in Malaysia, they emphasize the importance of this time in deepening spiritual connections and empathizing with those in need. In Malaysia, this dish is predominantly served in mosques for iftar, the evening meal when the fast is broken, creating a sense of unity and community.

The couple particularly misses the familial aspects of Ramadan, as they reside in Auckland and feel the absence of their extended family. Ali recalls waking up early to help his mother prepare for suhoor, the pre-fast meal, while Hizul reminisces about the bustling household filled with the sound of family members preparing for iftar. Despite being in a quieter environment in New Zealand, they strive to recreate this lively atmosphere by hosting iftar gatherings at their café in Queenstown.

For the past two years, they have brought staff, neighbors, and community members together for communal iftar meals, aligning with Prophet Muhammad’s values of sharing food and kindness. Their gatherings not only promote cultural sharing but also provide a platform for discussions about Ramadan, Islam, and cultural traditions, fostering understanding and connection through food.

In Auckland, the couple participates in community iftars hosted by friends like Mohd Zali Kamari and Suzana Samsudin, who exemplify the spirit of togetherness regardless of familial ties. They emphasize the importance of community gathering, indicating that it transcends blood relations, as they come together with fellow Malaysians and Singaporeans to celebrate this meaningful month.

In summary, Ramadan serves as a significant period fostering spiritual growth, family bonding, and communal ties. Habib Ali and Syahida Hizul have made efforts to recreate the vibrancy of Ramadan in New Zealand through their café gatherings, embodying the values of sharing and kindness. By promoting these cultural interactions, they facilitate a greater understanding of Islam, allowing people from diverse backgrounds to connect over food and learn about each other’s traditions.

Original Source: www.rnz.co.nz