Comparing Ramadan in Malaysia, Pakistan & Indonesia 🌙

Experiencing the beauty of Ramadan & the joyfulness of Eid is a treat … & extra fun in a foreign country where things are next-level different. Like here. Behind me, there are 10 Muslim families celebrating Eid at a beach bar!

I’ve lived in 3 Muslim-majority countries. And it always brings a smile to see just how different they are.

So I thought I’d share my favourite memories >>

MALAYSIA | lived 6 years

1. Markets for iftar were THE BEST! I’ve never lived in another country where night markets are sewn so tightly into the fabric of society!
2. Life goes on as usual and most people who fast take it in stride and do not complain
3. Prayer tents are at all night markets
4. Restaurants never shut given the diverse makeup of Malaysians and their inbound tourism

PAKISTAN | 2 years, 2 months

1. Like China does during CNY, Pakistan semi closes down, impacting business & tourism
2. There is A LOT that friends in Pakistan “couldn’t do” because they were fasting & had no energy. I didn’t experience that in Malaysia so it was quite funny to tease friends over the different mentality of a country with 96% vs. 63% Muslims
3. There’s a deep sense of community & giving. Pakistanis who can, GIVE. They donate time, goods, food, or money to help families in need. It’s beautiful
4. Life is conducted behind closed doors, so iftar seemed a personal household celebration. Perhaps some neighbourhoods had nightly parties but I didn’t see it

INDONESIA | 2 years so far

1. Restaurants on Muslim-majority islands – like where I live – might open later but tourism & business is not disrupted
2. Life goes on as usual, work hours stay the same
3. Street vendors pop up EVERYWHERE selling sweets & snacks
4. The street parades are FUN! Last night Eid parties popped up with DJs & people young / old / WOMEN & men equally dancing & singing to Indonesian rock & pop, celebrating in a very cool way
   5. Traditions vary by island but Muslim communities share food with their Hindu and Buddhist neighbours nightly to promote interfaith harmony

It’s a gift to live in the countries I have and call wonderful people there my friends, during Ramadan and the rest of the year ❤️