Ramadan in Southeast Asia

Ramadan in Southeast Asia

Muslims account for about 40% or about 240 million of the Southeast Asian population, thus making Islam as the most widely practiced religion in this region.

As the first day of Ramadan, Muslims around the ASEAN Region eagerly welcome the start of the holiest month on the Islamic calendar.

ASEAN CORNER is glad to forge a better understanding of Ramadan among adherents of other faiths in case you travel in a Muslim country during the Month of Fasting.

Here are some useful facts about Ramadan:

What is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the name of the ninth Islamic lunar month.
 

Why is Ramadan so important to Muslims?

Fasting in the month of Ramadan is one of the 5 pillars of Islam.

When does Ramadan begin?

The beginning of Ramadan depends on the actual sighting of the new moon. The month begins on a different day each year and moves forward. Ramadan in 2013 starts on Wednesday, the 10th of July.

How many days does Ramadan last?

The month lasts 29-30 days based on the visual sightings of the crescent moon.

What do Muslims do during Ramadan?

Muslims around the world fast from dawn to dusk for the entire month. They refrain from consuming food, drinking liquids, smoking and engaging in sexual relations during the daylight hours.

Why do people break their fast with dates?

Dates are a staple fruit of the Middle East. It is said that the Prophet Muhammad broke his fast by eating dates. Dates have the power to cure common health problems such as headaches, low blood sugar and lethargy during the period of Ramadan.

What should tourists do while holidaying in Islamic countries during Ramadan?

Non-Muslim expatriates must not eat, drink or smoke in public during the daytime of Ramadan, in respect to the holiness of the month of fasting and the feelings of Muslims.