Ramadan for Muslims under the MCO

The Ramadan month for Muslims in Malaysia will be a different experience from previous years due to the implementation of the MCO. What are the dos and don’ts for Muslims during this period? The answers below were compiled from an interview with Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department in charge of Religious Affairs Datuk Seri Dr Zulkifli Al-Bakri (pic).

Q: Must Muslims fast during the movement control order (MCO) period and during a pandemic?

A: Fasting in Ramadan is a religious obligation for all Muslims who are able-bodied and of sound mind. There are exemptions for those who cannot fast due to medical conditions or circumstances which do not allow them to fast. Ramadan under the MCO is no different, the only new thing is that our movements have to be controlled. Muslims must follow what the Health Ministry and authorities say on what can be done and what cannot be done while we fast.