Non-muslims Embrace Fasting, Experience Benefits

KUALA LUMPUR, March 12 (Bernama) -- The desire to experience the benefits of fasting and show respect to their Malay friends during Ramadan has encouraged many non-Muslims to refrain from eating and drinking all day.

Some of them shared their experiences on social media recently, which quickly went viral. Their excitement in taking on the challenge of fasting, visiting Ramadan bazaars, waking up for the predawn meal and eagerly waiting for the Maghrib call to prayer to break their fast received an overwhelmingly positive response from the Malay community, who wholeheartedly supported their efforts.

Well-known social media influencer Wee Chuan Chin, 31, first attempted fasting during his schooldays but last year, he successfully fasted for 22 days during Ramadan. This year, he is determined to fast the entire month. 

Wee, who is affectionately known as ‘Abe Wee’ and is fluent in Bahasa Melayu and the Kelantanese dialect, said his motivation to fast stems from a desire to gain a deeper understanding of other cultures and religions.

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"I often share content about culture and religion on social media. I believe that by understanding other people’s beliefs, we not only learn to respect them more but also gain a different perspective on the world," he told Bernama.

Although in the past Wee struggled to complete his fast, it never dampened his spirit. For him, the experience of fasting offers an indescribable and deeply meaningful reward.

Growing more appreciative of the blessings he receives, he said fasting is not just about testing one’s patience and discipline in abstaining from food and drink, but also builds mental and physical endurance, making him more grateful for what he has.

"If you want to try fasting, don’t do it just because it’s trendy. Instead, take the time to understand the challenges and meaning behind it. You can start with half-day fasts. What’s important is to enjoy the process and learn from it," said Wee, who hopes to break his fast at a mosque during the last week of Ramadan.

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Similarly, content creator Rex Au, 27, despite previously failing to fast for the entire day, has now managed to adhere to his fast, doing so by keeping himself busy with work and avoiding food-related content on social media.

"Honestly, no one told me to fast. I do it because I am surrounded by my Malay friends and they are very supportive of my decision. Last year, I could only fast for half a day, but this time, I’m determined to fast as much as I can," he said.

To ensure he completes his fast, Au makes it a point not to miss the sahur meal as it helps sustain his energy throughout the day.

Meanwhile, content creator Lee Joey Leng, 25, said her first attempt at fasting during Ramadan was three years ago when she had a Muslim boyfriend. Although they have now parted ways, fasting has become a meaningful annual tradition for her every Ramadan.

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"In my first year, I fasted because my boyfriend was Muslim. I joined in and managed to fast for 10 days without really thinking about its significance, yet it was an unforgettable experience. In the second year, I was influenced by my surroundings. I have many Malay friends and when Ramadan came, they all fasted, so I joined in because I didn’t want to feel left out.

“Fasting has taught me to control my emotions and desires, given me time for self-reflection and even encouraged me to observe healthier eating habits," she added.

-- BERNAMA