1) Never feast or serve in front of Muslim during fasting time. Not only it is disrespectful, but it can also induce temptation among fasting Muslims. So please feast at the place away from Muslims, or seek permission when you have no choice but to have meal near them, as you don't mean to be rude to them. For this reason as well, some Muslim-operated eating premises will be closed during the Ramadhan fasting month.
2) Ask anything about Ramadhan month knowledge from Muslims. Because they have experience and know the full fasting rules during the month of Ramadhan. Do not pretend you all everything, instead seek answers from Muslim friends on the full knowledge. Be understandable and respectful of their culture and custom. This rule can also be applied on the fourth tip below.
3) Observe respectful etiquette at Ramadhan bazaar. Ramadhan bazaar normally opened few hours prior to breaking fast time with variety of foods and bevearages. It doesn't matter if you're Muslims or non-Muslims, you're welcome to visit and purchase the food and drinks there. However, please observe the rule 1 above after food purchase, or better still eat it at home. If you're been asked whether you're observing fast by the stall owner, politely answer them that you're fasting as well, or inform them you'll only have the food later after 7:30pm, which is few minutes after breaking fast times for all states in Malaysia.
4) Be sincere in fasting and seek Muslim advice if you want to practice fasting. Some non-Muslim might be curious of the concept of fasting like the Muslims do. Personally you can practice it but you must do it sincerely with whole heart. Seek advice from Muslim friends as per rule 2 above. For novice it might be a struggle to shift from normal lifestyle to a restrained lifestyle during fasting so plan ahead to ensure the plan goes smoothly for you health sake.
5) Join Muslims together for breaking fast by following certain etiquette. Breaking fast normally begins at sunset after 7:30pm, which is few minutes after breaking fast times for all states in Malaysia. Non-Muslims can join in for the breaking fast feast with Muslims by obeying rule 1 above prior to sunset azan sound from the mosque which signals time for breaking fast. Most importantly in multi cultural society Malaysia this event can tie the bonds of people from all races together, regardless of races, religions, and cultural background.
Those 5 useful might only be part of the rules, but I hoped it can be used to educate non-Muslims to fully respect the Muslims during the Ramadhan fasting month.
You can also view this video at Dailymotion at http://dai.ly/x6k07np.
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