THEY are the new Muslims who have embraced Islam and are experiencing their first fasting month. For most, the passage of fast, breaking fast and pre-fast meal (sahur) is not the only experience - they are also touched by the idea of compassion towards the poor as well as the personal challenge of overcoming shortcomings such as greed, envy and anger. They are all treasuring each day of the fast and are looking forward to the first morning of Syawal (the new month after Ramadan). WILSON HENRY joins them in the breaking of fast at the Perkim headquarters in Kuala Lumpur.
 
- Completing 30-day fast is a test
 Ahmad Azim Daniel Gurpreet, 38, lawyer, Kuala Lumpur (formerly of Perak)
 
THIS is my first Hari Raya. It all started (his conversion to Islam) when I saw my secretary, Wan Zuredah, reading the al-Quran.
I asked her many questions and she suggested that I get an English translation.
I did and I found answers to the many questions I had been asking. I then made the decision to become Muslim.
I still remember the first day of the fasting month. I was not sure whether I would be able to get through the day.
That day, I had a case in Perak and I was worried. But I managed.
Fasting is not really a problem but towards the end of the day, I feel thirsty and dizzy.
Being able to complete the 30-day fast is really a test. I am looking forward to Hari Raya. I will spend Raya with my friends.
No, I don't think I will be getting a baju raya. But I am looking for a songkok. I can't find one that fits.
 
- I'll sew my 'baju raya' and one for my baby
Nur Shaffiqua Abdullah, 21, single mother, Kota Belud

THIS is my first Hari Raya with my six-month-old baby and I have derived so much spiritual benefits from fasting.
At first I was unsure whether I would be able to fast. But my adopted mother, Zainab Othman, reassured me and said that my intention to fast and prayers would see me through.
I am so glad to have been able to fast. It has not been difficult.
Fasting has also made me appreciate what I have. I am fortunate that my adopted mother has helped me.
Of course, I am a bit sad that I can't be with my family in Kota Belud. But this Hari Raya, I will spend it with my adopted mother and her family in Kedah.
Hari Raya shopping? Hmm. I have not bought anything. But I will sew my baju raya.
And if there is spare material, I will make something for my baby, Nurul Hijanah.

- 'My life has changed'
Nur Alya-Faqihah, 23, tax consultant, Kuala Lumpur

I AM looking forward to my first Hari Raya. I made the decision to convert recently and I am so glad I did. I have never been so happy in my life.
I had a dream about becoming a Muslim and it has made a tremendous difference in my life. People have noticed the change in me since I became a Muslim.
So you can understand why this Hari Raya and the month of Ramadan has been special for me. My friends have also made it a point to help me along.
But what touched me is the number of friends who insisted that I spend it with them - in Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh.
I am also looking forward to hearing all those Hari Raya songs. I love the ones that Sudirman sings. But my favourite is M. Nasir's Satu Hari Di Hari Raya. Sometimes these songs make you sad.
When you fast and then break fast, you can feel emotional thinking about the poor who do not have enough to eat.
 
- 'Now I understand the sufferings of the poor'
Ahmad Nor Iman Cheong, 19, student, Ampang

IT was a challenge but fortunately, my family allowed me to stay with my adopted family who made it easier for me to do the sahur. I have also bought myself a gold baju raya.
Although I prepared to fast, I thought I would not be able to do it. But I managed.
And it has been worth it since I am able to understand what the poor must undergo without food.
Ever since I was 13, I wanted to become a Muslim and now that I am 19, I am excited about this Hari Raya.
It is so meaningful to celebrate it with my adopted family and five new siblings. We will celebrate together in Malacca.
After the Takbir Raya, I will ask my family for forgiveness.
What has touched me as I prepared for Hari Raya is the kindness I experienced from many of my Muslim friends and family.
I have also come to appreciate what I have and to be compassionate towards the less fortunate.

(published: 22/10/2006)