RTM news anchor, Rasyidah Abu Johan, who is popular for presenting news in fluent Mandarin has shared her thoughts on what fasting during Ramadan is.
This after the viral incident where a man slapped a non-Muslim for 'not fasting'.
Taking to Facebook, she said some of her non-Muslim friends often hesitated to eat in front of her during fasting month, concerned that it may offend her.
She said that true faith and endurance come from within, not from external influences.
"Ramadan is a month full of tests, which are meant for the person who fasts and not others.
"Even if the person who doesn’t fast is a Muslim, they should be confronted privately and not in public," she said.
She said some non-Muslims avoid eating in front of fasting individuals as a sign of respect, which she appreciates.
“My faith won’t be easily deterred by someone eating in front of me.
“There’s really no need to put others down just to elevate yourself,” she said.
She stressed that fasting is a personal challenge and should not be imposed on others.
She also expressed disappointment over the slapping incident, stating that Ramadan is about self-discipline, not forcing others to comply with fasting rules. – March 17, 2025