Ramadan begins amid Covid-19 restrictions

Muslims in Australia begin observing Ramadan, the fasting month, in a very different way due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But despite the social restrictions, many believe the essence of the Holy Month remains the same.

For the next 30 days, Muslims in all over the world will be abstaining from food and drinks during the daylight and would usually gather with friends and family each evening to break their fast over a meal known as Iftar.

There are approximately 600,000 Muslims in Australia and the majority live in main cities. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, all religious places inmcluding mosques remain closed and  Islamic sermons delivered through video callings.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has urged members of Australia's Muslim community to maintain social distancing protocols ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, which begins on Friday. 

“The holy month of Ramadan is a time of special devotion for Muslims across the world. It’s a time of fasting and prayer, as well as reflection and renewal. However, this year will be very different as we all experience a global health crisis,” he said.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian also issued similar pleas to the state's Muslim community on Thursday morning.

"Just as Easter was a difficult time for many families across the state, including my own, where people abandoned what they normally do, I say to our friends in the Muslim community: please, please respect the restrictions during this time," Ms Berejiklian said.

Below is the Auatralian prime Minister ‘s Ramadan Message