Bridging Cultures: Ramadan Celebrations of a Malaysian Couple in New Zealand
This article explores how Habib Ali and Syahida Hizul, residing in Auckland, celebrate Ramadan by sharing traditional Malaysian cuisine, particularly bubur lambuk porridge. They reminisce about their childhood experiences in Malaysia, highlighting food as a means of family bonding and community engagement. Through hosting iftar meals at their café, they promote understanding of Islamic practices and foster social connections within their community.
Habib Ali and Syahida Hizul, now residing in Auckland, reminisce about the lively atmosphere of Ramadan in Malaysia, especially the popularity of traditional rice porridge, known as bubur lambuk. During Ramadan, Muslims engage in fasting from dawn to sunset, aiming to strengthen their spiritual ties and express empathy towards the less fortunate. “Everybody gathers at the masjid [mosque], and all masjids typically provide the bubur lambuk for people to have iftar,” said Ali.
The couple fondly recalls how Ramadan is not solely about food but also essential family bonding. Ali reminisces about waking up at 4:30 AM to help his mother cook for suhoor, the pre-fast meal, stating, “I remember when I was little, we had to wake up and I actually fall [asleep] in front of my food.” Hizul reflects on the bustling nature of their household during Ramadan, shared excitement during iftar preparations, and the palpable energy in a large family setting.
In Queenstown, although the environment is quieter, Habib and Syahida strive to recreate the vibrant spirit of Ramadan. For the past two years, they host shared iftar meals at their café with friends, neighbors, and community members. This initiative is aligned with the teachings of Prophet Muhammad to embrace food sharing and kindness. “It’s become a platform for [people] to ask questions like just anything about Ramadan and Islam in general,” Hizul mentions, stressing the unifying power of food.
The couple emphasizes the importance of fostering understanding of Islamic culture, addressing misconceptions that arise, and sharing their perspectives on topics such as hijabs and halal food. They maintain strong community ties in Auckland, often gathering for iftars with friends, reinforcing the idea that familial bonds extend beyond blood relations, as seen with close friends like Mohd Zali Kamari and Suzana Samsudin, who welcome the community into their home for large iftar gatherings.
The article highlights the significance of food and family in Ramadan celebrations for Habib Ali and Syahida Hizul, who strive to bring a piece of their Malaysian traditions to New Zealand. By hosting communal iftar meals at their café, they create opportunities for cultural exchange and understanding. Their experiences underscore the essence of Ramadan as a time of togetherness, spirituality, and kindness, bridging the gap between different cultures through shared culinary experiences.
Original Source: www.rnz.co.nz
