When we got back from eight weeks in France, Ramadan was over, and so was Hari Raya. So we missed the clear roads in the mornings when Muslims eat before dawn, and the evening traffic jams as many leave work early to pray before ‘iftar’when they break their fast. We missed witnessing the self-control of so many people who didn’t even take a drink of water between dawn and dusk – at the hottest time of the year, too. And we missed the Ramadan bazaars and food stalls, the packed restaurants, the Ramadan special deals…

We were sorry to miss Hari Raya Aidalfilitri too (known as Eid elsewhere in the Islamic world). Dress in your best, meet your dear ones, and celebrate the end of Ramadan. A Muslim friend explained that the celebration is a couple of days in most countries – but in Malaysia it goes on for almost a month! Of eating and drinking, and holding ‘Open House’ for family, friends and neighbours…

And of course there are traditional dishes – start with soto ayam, maybe? (spicy chicken soup). Nasi impit (rice compressed and cooked in a little square basket), anyone? with succulent, spicy, slow cooked beef rendang? Maybe finish with black rice pudding or coconut jelly?

Makes me feel hungry just thinking about it!