KUALA LUMPUR : The Malaysian Health Coalition (MHC) wishes all Malaysians a blessed Ramadan and offers suggestions to help Muslims celebrate it in these extraordinary times.
MHC in a statement said they acknowledged that Muslims in Malaysia were expected to make greater than usual sacrifices this fasting month, especially during the Movement Control Order (MCO).
First, it said Malaysians must maintain physical distancing. While there would be no Ramadan bazaars or tarawih prayers at mosques and surau, alternative arrangements at home would remain meaningful.
This could protect families and communities, especially the elderly, by reducing physical contact for them and that this was also an act of love and sacrifice.
“We understand that celebrating Ramadan under the MCO while separated from loved ones may be mentally and emotionally difficult for some. We encourage local and religious leaders such as imam and ketua kampung to guide and support their communities using telecommunications and digital platforms during this period.
“This time can still be used to reflect, improve, share, and care for one another from a healthy distance, which can ease any feelings of isolation or loneliness,” it added.
The MHC, which represents 45 member societies and 19 individuals, said the spirit of Ramadan was charity, love and care for fellow brothers and sisters. Some things might be different under the MCO, but the intention to fulfil the spirit remains the same.
“We can celebrate the spirit of Ramadan by actively caring for our neighbours in our community, for example by donating food or money so no one goes hungry, or by spending time on phone or video calls with lonely neighbours,” it added.
The coalition expressed hope that these suggestions would help Malaysians adapt to Ramadan this year and they believe that it was possible for the spirit of Ramadan to co-exist with the MCO.
