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AS Kuala Lumpur’s streets light up with festive decorations and bustling Ramadan bazaars, a contrasting reality unfolds in the city’s shadows.
For the homeless, Ramadan is not just a time for fasting, but a period that heightens the daily challenges of survival on the streets.
Bernama cited Mohd Ibrahim Daud, 41, has spent the past six years living on the streets of Kuala Lumpur.
For him, Ramadan is filled with a deep sense of longing and reflection. “Ramadan used to mean family gatherings, prayers, and special meals.
Now, it’s just about survival - finding food, water, and shelter,” said Ibrahim, sitting on the cold concrete under a flyover near Chow Kit. His story is all too common, as countless individuals like him struggle to navigate their lives during the holy month, watching others gather for warm iftar meals while they search for basic necessities.
However, amidst these struggles, the spirit of Ramadan shines brightly through the efforts of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and local communities.
These groups have come together to provide support, care, and a sense of belonging to the homeless during this challenging time.
One such organisation is Pertubuhan Jejak Jalanan (PJJ), which works to provide the homeless with a sense of community and the opportunity to experience the true essence of Ramadan. Shahdattul Olivia Ferranee Imelda Taib, the chairman of PJJ, shared that the organisation distributes about 200 food packages daily during Ramadan.
These packages not only provide iftar meals and drinks but also create a safe space where the homeless can gather to perform Tarawih prayers together.
“Sometimes they feel embarrassed to pray in mosques or suraus due to their lack of resources. So, if we cannot bring them to the mosque, we bring the ‘mosque’ to them, so they feel more accepted. We want to offer them a chance to experience the joy of Ramadan,” explained Shahdattul Olivia.
She expressed hope that more NGOs and government agencies would join in to support their mission, saying, “Over the past seven days of fasting, we have seen them eagerly waiting. By the time we open our tent at 6.30 pm, many have already gathered - not just for food, but to pray.”
Tonight’s programme includes a recitation of tahlil and selawat, a devotional prayer led by volunteers from KomunitiKL and students from Multimedia University. These moments of unity offer comfort and support to the homeless during a time when isolation can feel even more overwhelming.
KomunitiKL volunteer Nurul Zayani Yahya, 34, shared a powerful reminder of the hardship faced by the underprivileged during Ramadan, highlighting the crucial role volunteers play in saving lives.
“During Ramadan, we receive reports of some asnaf (those in need) contemplating suicide. Thankfully, we are able to intervene and save them. It’s not just about the food we provide - it’s about being there for them, offering support that helps sustain both their lives and their faith,” she said.
Nurul Zayani recalled a particularly heartbreaking case from last week, where a father, overwhelmed by his inability to provide food for his family, attempted suicide. “He didn’t know where to turn for help during the fasting month.
But Alhamdulillah, we reached him in time. Now, he visits our centre regularly to pray and seek support. For many, just knowing that someone is there for them is what keeps them going,” she reflected.
The journalist also had the privilege of breaking fast with the homeless during one of these programmes. Although the meal was simple - rice with chicken, watermelon, and drinks - it was filled with meaning, particularly when shared in the spirit of community and connection. This experience highlighted not only the struggles faced by the homeless but also the power of human kindness and how it can bring light to even the darkest of times.
As Ramadan continues, it serves as a reminder of the strength of community, the importance of generosity, and the small acts of kindness that can restore hope.
While the homeless in Kuala Lumpur face difficult realities, the collective efforts of volunteers and organisations show that in times of hardship, compassion can make a lasting difference.
Through food, prayer, and presence, these volunteers offer not only sustenance but a renewed sense of dignity and belonging, ensuring that the true spirit of Ramadan lives on in the hearts of all. - March 9, 2025
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