Ramadan Abroad: Finding Comfort in New Traditions

by Meylisa Hadi and Rafi Pramana

What is it like having Ramadan in the U.S.?

To bridge the gap between her current life and her cherished traditions, Kak Aulia finds comfort in cooking. Preparing the same dishes that she would typically have for iftar in Indonesia allows her to maintain a connection to her roots. The familiar flavors bring a sense of home, transforming her dining table into a space of nostalgia and warmth.

Another significant challenge she faces is the extended fasting hours. Compared to Indonesia, where the fasting period is shorter, the long daylight hours in the U.S. can be difficult to endure. However, Kak Aulia has found an effective coping method: staying busy. Keeping herself engaged throughout the day allows time to pass more quickly, making the fasting hours more manageable.

Far from family, doesn't have to be so lonely!

Despite being far from home, Kak Aulia ensures she remains connected to the Muslim community. One of the ways she does this is by attending prayers at the mosque. Sharing the Ramadan experience with fellow Muslims helps keep the spiritual essence of the month alive. The mosque becomes a sanctuary—a place where she can find solace and a sense of belonging.

Through this experience, Kak Aulia has gained a newfound appreciation for Ramadan with family. When surrounded by loved ones, it is easy to take those moments for granted. However, being miles away from them has deepened her gratitude for the times they have spent together. The distance, while challenging, has also served as a reminder of just how precious those shared moments truly are. Another comment about Ramadan from kak Mia. She said,

"I learned to be more patient. There are too many temptations. Especially when you're fasting with a population, mostly non-Muslim, it's a big challenge".

As she continues to navigate Ramadan in a foreign land, Indonesian muslim people in the U.S. hold onto the traditions that define this sacred month. Through food, community, and personal reflection, she finds ways to keep the spirit of Ramadan alive, no matter where they are. 

Ramadan as Inter-island Migrant: You may Experience at a Young Age

The experience of living far from family also experienced by Meylisa and Rafi, college students from East Kalimantan who continue their study in Malang, East Java.

"I can cook (pictured above), I can hang out with my friends for iftar, but I still miss my mom's cooking," Meylisa said. Her favorite simple dish is soup! It's the solution to have a nutritious food when away from family.

Even though it is not always about food, the moment we have during Ramadan affects the way we enjoy the moment. Meylisa values the moment with whom we spend Ramadan, so she appreciates every moment whenever she has a chance to share the togetherness during Ramadan as an inter-island migrant.

Slightly different than Meylisa, Rafi said "Living far from family broadens my scope on seeing the world. It is an opportunity for me to meet new people who are in the same boat, and create a new family!"

Both their insight about Ramadan helps us to see more about the meaning of Ramadan for Muslims. it is not as simple as a holy month, but it is a month where family reunites or begins.

Good News : Eid Al-Fitr in Boise Islamic Center!

Source : https://boisemuslims.org/

Good news for Muslims in Idaho! You can find the Muslim community at Boise Islamic Center in Boise for Eid Al-Fitr! Find more information by clicking the link here. This is a special time to celebrate with a community.

In addition, if you are interested in celebrating Eid with the Indonesian community, join us in Eid Celebrating on April 5th, 2025, 11 am - 3 pm at Fleischer's clubhouse: _11127 W Morela Dr. Boise, ID 83709.



You will find a lot of Indonesian dishes, don't forget to bring yours! For more information about the IndoIdaho Eid celebration, please reach us here on Instagram. Happy Ramadan and Happy Eid Mubarak everyone!