End of Ramadan

Tomorrow marks the last day of a full month of fasting for the Muslims. As we live in a predominantly Malay/Muslim neighborhood, a huge bazaar is set-up throughout this month next to our apartment block. The night market sells everything from fried chicken, preserved dates to shoes, dresses and automobiles. As Muslims fast from sunrise to sundown, they usually break their fast with a sumptuous and usually big meal. So, contrary to what you'd expect, a lot of the Muslims I know actually gain weight during the month of Ramadan.


For very different reasons, we enjoy this month. For Brian, this is the time of the year when he can find his favorite chicken kebab right at his doorstep. There is also his favorite "pisang goreng" (banana fritters) - he often shows off his Malay by asking for "pisang goreng" and the stall owners never fail to be impressed.
For me, I love the "keropok lekor" they sell. It's some kind of Malay fish crackers/chips that you dip into sweet chili sauce. It's not something that I can find easily on normal days here but at the bazaar, they are in abundance.
The bazaar gets more crowded as the Muslim new year approaches and this evening, it was absolutely packed! Many are making their last minute shopping rounds and many stall owners are selling their wares at a discount before they close shop tomorrow night.














Beyond the religious significance, we absolutely love the richness of living in a racially and culturally pluralistic society.