Dates, 'fruit of paradise', are here for Ramadan

In Malaysia, local supermarkets and hypermarkets stock a wide variety of dates from the Middle East and North Africa, to cater to the increasing demand for date consumption during Ramadhan. Photos: The Star/Yap Chee Hong

One of the oldest fruits in the world, the date can trace its origins back to 3,000 BC and has been harvested in the Middle East and North Africa for over 5,000 years. In Islam, the date is significant as Muslims break their fast with it during the holy month of Ramadan.

This is in tandem with the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, who initiated the practice of breaking fast with dates and advocated for all Muslims to do the same. In Islam, dates are revered and described as one of the “fruits of paradise”.