Cool treat: The brothers and their father buying drinks for buka puasa at a Ramadan bazaar in Kepala Batas, Penang. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
KEPALA BATAS: After seeing his parents fast over the years, it is now Uzair Al Humaidi Nabil Fikri’s turn to fulfil his religious obligation and he has been embracing the challenge with determination.
“I felt thirsty and hungry by the afternoon, but my parents reminded me that fasting is part of our faith,” said the seven-year-old.
Fasting for the first time this year, Uzair Al Humaidi admits to feeling weak at times but stays motivated.
He is following his older brothers, Muhammad Uwais Al Fateh, 11, and Umari Al Ansari, nine, who have been fasting since they were seven.
Uzair Al Humaidi looks forward to breaking fast with his family, saying that the experience is rewarding.
“I get really excited for buka puasa because my mother prepares my favourite dishes, and we get to eat together,” he said.
His father Nabil Fikri Aziz said he would bring his children to the Ramadan bazaar as a reward for their fasting.
“Sometimes, I buy them the food they want, but mostly, I encourage moderation when breaking fast,” he said.
Though not fasting for the first time, Radatul Adelia Sharizal, nine, finds it challenging due to the hot weather.
“My parents tells me that fasting is also about being patient and kind. When I fast, I can feel for those who don’t have food on their table,” said the SK Ara Rendang pupil, whose decision to fast was greatly influenced by her older siblings aged 16 and 13.
Her parents ensure she wakes up early for sahur and eats energy-boosting food such as dates, rice and fruits to sustain her through the day.
Radatul Adelia’s mother, Nora Indah Zakaria, said she has been guiding all her children to fast from as early as six years old to help them adapt as they grow older.
“I don’t offer them material rewards, but I instil the importance of religious values, reminding them of the spiritual rewards they can earn,” she said.
