Not Because of One Rotten Apple

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i.  Pengisian SMM

ii.  Glidogram Plus Extra

iii.  Marshmallow Cupcakes

We are nearing the last third of the month of Ramadan and preparations for Eid is in full swing.  In fact, for most people, it started even earlier in the fasting month, which is a good thing if you want to avoid the mad rush for clothes, house decorations and what-nots!

The preparations aside, I would like to talk about the breaking of fast.  Many Malaysian Muslims (and other Malaysians) usually wait for the month of Ramadan to sample wonderful delicacies that are not normally sold during the rest of the year.  We usually buy one or two goodies from the Ramadan Bazaar to complement what we have already prepared at home.

It is also not unusual for some to go out and break their fast.  Some would go to five-star hotels buffet dinners and some would just make reservations at cafes.  It is also not unusual for some to break their fast at fast food outlets like Kenny Rogers, Pizza Hut or even Kentucky Fried Chicken.  These outlets usually accept reservations for breaking of fast and usually have tables ready just in time for that, which is usually around 7.20 p.m.  So, the proprietors of these outlets will ensure that all tables that have been reserved are ready for their customers.

So, with all these preparations, what is rather unusual is for some people who prefer to break their fast at such outlets, to sit at the tables and wait for breaking of fast, as early as 6.00 p.m.  That is almost a one-and-a-half hour wait!  It is rather odd to just sit there, not eating or drinking; passing time with idle gossiping.  This is not only a waste of time, but may cause a possible decrease on the take of customers for the outlets that particular day. 

Other Malaysians who are not fasting can in fact, have their dinner at these outlets during that time.  Most of them I'm sure, are considerate enough to finish their meals in time for the Muslims to break their fast; especially when there is a sign stating 'reserved' placed on the table!  People who often eat out will know this etiquette.

And one more thing.  Reservations at these food outlets means that one has to pay in advance, and when they are seated, the food will be brought to them.  So, if by an odd chance, those who were eating before the breaking of fast, are still eating during that time (even at 7.20 p.m. which is already time to break fast!) for whatever reason, you can always get your money back and take your custom elsewhere. 

But like I mentioned earlier, Malaysians are generally a tolerant lot and this etiquette has been ingrained in each and every one of us Malaysians throughout the years of living together in one country as one.  Let not one rotten apple, spoil the whole bunch!