For Muslims in Singapore, this month of Ramadan (27 November - 26 December 2000) is a time of sacrifice for them to earn a sense of fulfillment. Ramadan, the ninth and holiest month in the Islamic lunar calendar, is chosen for fasting because it is the month whereby the Koran, the Muslim holy book, was revealed to the Prophet Mohammed. Muslims believe that by fasting, they can draw closer to God and at the same time, develop empathy for the world's poor and hungry. The Makansutra team visits the Mashid Khalib Mosque along Joo Chiat Road to give you an insider's view of what goes on in the mosque during this month of fasting.

The fasting regimen is rigorous. No eating, drinking or smoking is allowed after the first prayer in the morning before sunrise until dinner, which is delayed until sunset. The opening of the fast or Buka Puasa starts around 7pm in the evening. All fasting Muslims will perform their prayers before breaking their fast. The end of the fast is the beginning of a feast with many delicious items.

The Muslim feast begins with a serving of "Bubur Ramadan", a green colored porridge and red dates because dates were what the Prophet Mohammed ate to break his fast. This combination is especially good for digestion and helps the Muslims to recover from a long day of fasting. Beverages served are the Muslim's favourite drinks - Teh Tarik and Bandung.

A favourite dish is the "Bryani Dam", rice with mutton served with gravy. Another popular meat dish is the fried chicken. The main dish is usually accompanied by snacks like curry puffs and samosas, meat-filled puff pastry triangles. Last but not least, a sweet ending to the meal is usually sweet semolina with raisins.

Text by Lance Lee
Photography by Lance Lee/Imaginasian Productions Pte Ltd