SRI LANKAN MALAYS CHERISH ISLAMIC TRADITIONS DURING RAMADAN 

By Vijian Paramasivam

PHNOM PENH, Feb 27  (Bernama) -- The Malay community in Sri Lanka continues to play a vital role in the country’s cultural mosaic through religious practices and communal ties that remain strong and visible throughout this holy month.

They blend religious devotion with vibrant, long-held cultural practices, highlighting the unique identity of Malays in the South Asian nation with a population of roughly 23 million.

The Malays, now numbering over 40,000, have thrived for generations among the various Sri Lankan ethnic and religious groups which also include the majority Sinhalese, Sri Lankan Tamils, Indian Tamils, Moors, and Burghers.

“While we have preserved our Islamic faith and Malay heritage, we have also embraced the broader Sri Lankan identity with respect and harmony.

“Education, public service, discipline, and a commitment to coexistence have been central to our journey,” Sri Lanka Malay Association President Sabrina Jayah told Bernama. 

According to literature, the Sri Lankan Malay community traces its origins to the mid-17th century, with the earliest arrivals dating back to around the 1650s during Dutch rule.

The Sri Lanka Malay Association was established in 1922. It is one of the oldest institutions on the island along with the Colombo Malay Cricket Club, which was founded in 1872. 

Sabrina captured the headlines when she became the first woman to helm the Sri Lanka Malay Association last year.

The Malay community's presence becomes even more prominent during Ramadan, as their rich culture and traditions — from cuisines to costumes — take centre stage.

Congregational prayers, Quran recitations, community services, fasting, iftar (breaking of fast), and bonding with other members of society dominate this sacred month, said Sabrina.

“Through the Sri Lanka Malay Association, we collect zakat (alms) contributions from generous donors and distribute them to deserving families in the form of vouchers, so that they can purchase food essentials,” said Sabrina, who is also the Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of Moot Manor Pvt Ltd. 

A Muslim food and cultural event called Salam Ramadan 2026 will be held on Feb 27 and 28, and March 1, showcasing the community’s cultural heritage.

The pasar malam (night market) is another community event. Held every other year, the event showcases Malay cultural heritage such as batik, baju kurung (traditional female attire), silat martial arts, traditional cuisine, and dances.

However, Sabrina laments the slow decline of the use of the Malay language among the younger generation, as many tend to speak English. 

-- BERNAMA