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First brought to Peninsular Malaysia by Arab and Indian traders during the 13th
century, Malaysia embraces a progressive Islam that permeates the country's architecture,
cuisine and lifestyle. Around 60% of Malaysians practice Islam, a culture very intertwined
with Malay culture.
The call to prayer can be heard in all corners of the country, five times a day.
It is not unusual for a mosque to be situated down the street from a Church and
across the street from a Hindu temple. This multi-religious society lives in harmony
and everyone practices their own religious beliefs freely and in harmony with each
other.
The holy month of Ramadhan, when Muslims abstain from food and drink from dawn to
dusk, transforms many streets into bustling food markets at dusk, selling an array
of local delights.
The main annual Muslim holiday is Eid Mubarak, locally known as Hari raya Aidilfitri,
which celebrates the end of a month of fasting. Muslims all over the country open
their doors to friends and neighbours of all faiths to celebrate and catch up over
festive fo
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