Ramadan wake-up calls spark debate in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (MNTV) – A viral social media post has ignited debate in Malaysia over the use of loud musical instruments to wake people for Sahur, the pre-dawn meal during Ramadan.

A Twitter user, @taufiq_tuah, shared a video showing a group of people going door to door, using tambourines and drums to rouse residents from their sleep. The post, reported by The Rakyat Post, questioned this practice, stating that it does not align with Malaysian traditions.

“During the Prophet’s time, his companions did not wake people up like this, even though they had drums,” the user wrote, urging people to consider others’ comfort. Instead of disturbing others, he suggested engaging in prayer or reading the Quran.

The debate has drawn mixed reactions online. While some agree that such wake-up calls are disruptive, others note that using drums for Sahur reminders is a common practice in parts of South Asia and other Muslim-majority regions.

This discussion highlights the diversity of cultural traditions within the Muslim world and how modern perspectives are reshaping age-old customs.