Gomez: In Indonesia, kids wake the neighbourhood for sahur with drums and chants.
Observing Ramadan in a different country brings challenges and new experiences.
For Muslim international students at INTI, this is a time of spiritual reflection, discipline and connection, as they find comfort and camaraderie in shared traditions.
Syed Tanvir Anjum, a Bachelor of Computer Science student at INTI International University, is observing Ramadan in Malaysia for the first time this year.
While fasting hours are familiar, cultural differences require adjustment.
“The language barrier sometimes makes it difficult to immerse in the traditions fully,” the Bangladesh native said.
Still, he appreciates the opportunity to practise his faith alongside fellow students in a welcoming setting.
For Gomez Bernard Alexander, a student from the School of Business at INTI International College Penang, fasting here feels familiar yet distinct.
“In Indonesia, kids wake the neighbourhood for sahur (the pre-dawn meal before fasting begins) with drums and chants, but here, it’s more structured – people rely on alarms and the imsak call (a reminder to stop eating shortly before the dawn prayer),” he shared.
These differences highlight the variety of ways the holy month is observed across cultures.
Ousmane Sow, from the Republic of Guinea, has spent four Ramadans in Malaysia while pursuing his degree in international business at INTI International College Subang.
“At home, fasting is a family experience. Here, it’s about building a support system with friends,” Ousmane, who joins group iftars and campus activities to maintain a sense of togetherness, said.
Ousmane recalled a past Ramadan event hosted by the International Student Club, where students from various backgrounds gathered to share meals and cultural traditions.
“It was an eye-opening experience,” he said, adding that students were mindful and respectful of their fasting peers.
Agreeing, Gomez said non-Muslim friends are “always considerate, checking in to see if we need anything during fasting”.
“The teachers and students are very welcoming. The Muslim community here is strong, so you’ll never feel alone,” Syed said.
Ousmane encouraged students to engage with their surroundings.
“Explore the local mosques, visit Ramadan bazaars. Being part of the community makes the experience much more fulfilling,” he said.
Balancing academic commitments while fasting requires careful planning, added the trio.
Syed structures his day to align prayer and study sessions effectively.
Gomez gradually reduces his food intake a month before Ramadan to ease the transition, while Ousmane sets earlier deadlines for assignments to stay focused and maintain his routine.
