Celebrating Ramadan: A Blend of Tradition and Community in New Zealand

Habib Ali and Syahida Hizul, residing in New Zealand, reflect on their Malaysian Ramadan memories, emphasizing the significance of communal meals and family bonding during the fasting month. They recreate the festive spirit by hosting iftar gatherings at their café, aiming to foster understanding of Islamic traditions within their community.

During Ramadan, the atmosphere in Malaysia is vibrant with night markets showcasing the beloved bubur lambuk porridge, cherished by Muslims during this month. Habib Ali and his wife, Syahida Hizul, who reside in Auckland, recall their experiences of Ramadan in Malaysia, where fasting occurs from dawn until sunset to foster spiritual reflection and empathy for the less fortunate. “Everybody gathers at the masjid [mosque], and all masjids typically provide the bubur lambuk for people to have iftar,” says Ali.

Ramadan transcends culinary delights, as it symbolizes familial bonding, which the couple dearly misses in New Zealand. Ali reminisces about waking early to assist his mother with food preparations. “Typically, if I want to help my mum to cook, I’ll wake up at 4.30am,” he recalls. Hizul notes the shared frenzy in the household as they prepare for iftar, inducing nostalgia for those bustling family moments.

To recreate the essence of Ramadan in New Zealand, Ali and Hizul invite café staff, neighbors, and community members at their Frankton café to share iftar meals, honoring the traditional ideals of sharing food and kindness. “Food always brings people together, so it’s the easiest way to connect,” Hizul explains, highlighting its role in fostering understanding of Ramadan and Islamic culture.

In Auckland, the couple joins with friends Mohd Zali Kamari and Suzana Samsudin, who, despite not being blood relatives, celebrate iftar as an extended family. Ali shares, “We typically get together with a small community and do have iftar here.” This communal approach helps mitigate misconceptions about Islam and encourages open dialogue regarding cultural practices.

In essence, Habib Ali and Syahida Hizul’s Ramadan observances in New Zealand reveal a profound connection to their Malaysian roots. Through shared meals and community gatherings, they strive to perpetuate the spirit of Ramadan, encompassing both culinary traditions and familial bonds. Their efforts foster understanding and appreciation for Islamic practices within their local community, illustrating that food indeed has the power to unite individuals across cultural boundaries.

Original Source: www.rnz.co.nz