MINI REPORT
The "Fast with Us" event was organized by Unlock, the cultural club at Kolej Tun Razak (KTR), UTM, during the Ramadan season in 2021. This online event provided an immersive fasting experience for both Muslim and non-Muslim participants as they navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The event began at 5:00 a.m. and we had breakfast together via Google Meet. It is the pre-dawn meal called ‘Sahur’. This was a good experience to foster a sense of connection and unity. We were required to share our whole day of the fasting experience on social media which is Instagram stories. This enabled a one-of-a-kind sharing of personal journeys, which promoted close relationships among us. The evening Google Meet session at 10 p.m., which featured sharing sessions where participants could reflect on their own experiences and appreciate different perspectives, was one of the standout moments. Fasting for a day was more than just abstaining from food and drink. It was a journey of self-discovery, discipline, and empathy.
SELF-REFLECTION
I felt calm and focused as dawn broke, knowing that I wouldn't eat or drink anything until sunset. My usual morning activities continued, but there was an added layer of mindfulness. I became more conscious of my thoughts and actions, and I took the opportunity to do some light reading on fasting and its significance in various cultures.
As the evening approached, the excitement for Iftar grew. I prepared a simple meal and water to break the fast. The first sip of water was incredibly refreshing, and it was a moment of gratitude. Then, I ate a meal that was more appreciated than usual because of the day's fast. I gained a greater appreciation for life's small blessings, a stronger sense of connection to those around me and a renewed commitment to being mindful in my daily actions.
Through "Fast with Us," I gained a better understanding of the Malay culture especially fasting before Hari Raya Aidilfitri. Understanding the cultural and religious aspects of fasting has increased my appreciation for diverse traditions and cultures. The event also allowed participants to make new friends and learn about the lives of others, fostering a sense of community. It is also about refraining from negative actions and thoughts in order to foster a period of self-improvement and spiritual growth.
As a participant, I was able to contribute to discussions and activities, which enhanced my communication skills and self-confidence. This event was more than just observing and following. It was about actively participating, contributing and learning in a dynamic environment despite the COVID-19 pandemic did not allow us to engage in the physical event.
To summarize, taking part in the "Fast with Us" event was a highly engaging and meaningful experience. It exemplified how virtual platforms could be effectively used to create meaningful and enriching cultural experiences. This event not only broadened my cultural knowledge and comprehension but also demonstrated the power of virtual events to bring people together in meaningful and transformative ways. "Fast with Us" demonstrated how unity, empathy, and shared experiences can overcome barriers, even in a virtual environment.