A family in Brunei observes Ramadan the traditional way

At around 3:30am, Kamis Syawal's dimly lit residence was the only welcoming sight in one of Tanah Jambu's undeveloped areas, where he and his family gather for their sahur (pre-dawn meal).

"Puasa (fasting) is compulsory for every Muslim during Ramadan, therefore it is important to have sahur as it fuels the body with needed energy to work until sungkai (breaking of fast)," Faridah, Kamis' daughter, shared with The Brunei Times.

The mother of eight then explained that the variety of food one would usually have for sahur depended on the financial ability of the individual. In her family's case, both Faridah and her visually impaired husband are unemployed, so their meals are always humble.

"Today's main course will be Tumis Ubi Kentang (stir fried potatoes) accompanied with some sweet dates, cold water and watermelon," said Faridah.

Faridah's Ramadan routine usually begins with house chores and food preparation from 1am onwards.

With the help of her daughter, she busily prepares the food in their small makeshift kitchen which also turns into a living room and a bedroom.

When all is ready, Faridah wakes up her 11-year-old son, the youngest in the family, for sahur.

The family is then joined by Faridah's brother, Kamal Kamis and his family, along with their father, Kamis.

On their shabby wooden porch, the family starts their meal with a prayer. Once they are done eating, everyone takes turns to perform ablution, readying themselves for the Subuh prayer.

When everyone is ready, Faridah, who dons a telekung (prayer wear), and her family position themselves to face the kiblat (direction of Mekah). The prayer is led by her father, who Faridah describes as a pious man, always eager to recite verses such as the Surah Yassin. She is not as religious as her father but makes it a point to recite praises for Allah SWT and Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) in all things that she does, a practise she had started before she got married.

On the other hand, despite his physical disability, her husband, Lakim Tuah, who is also illiterate, does not hesitate to refer to the imams from the nearby mosque for spiritual guidance.

His determination to lead an enriching life is seen in his daily routine. When the sun rises, he would be off gardening, watering crops such as long beans, pumpkin, and other vegetables that they grow in their garden.

With Hari Raya around the corner, Faridah's only wish for the festive season is for a comfortable home for her and her family.

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