EXCITEMENT OF RAMADAN HELPS CURE 'HOMESICK' FOREIGN STUDENTS

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 27 (Bernama) -- The excitement of the Ramadan month,
celebrations in Malaysia and friendly society, helps to cure 'homesick' foreign
students who are far from their families and countries.

An International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) student Abdullah Alfahad,
18, from Bangladesh said the friendly community in Malaysia made him feel at
'home away from home'.

"Initially I was worried of having to spend the Ramadan month here...but now I
am excited and happy because my fellow students, especially those from Malaysia,
understand our feelings and our predicament of staying away from our families,"
he said when met after breaking fast with Chief Secretary to the Government
Sidek Hassan here, Thursday.

About 1,500 guests, including academicians, administrators and students attended
the event.

Ilnaz Akhmetov, 21, meanwhile, said the Ramadan month activities here did not
differ much compared with his country, Russia.

"I feel as if I'm at home because Malaysians are very courteous and noble in
values," said the Bachelor of Economics student.

Meanwhile, Salman Ramat, 30, from Nigeria said Ramadan gave her an
opportunity to understand the culture and customs of another country.

She said this year Ramadan also provided a platform for her to strengthen the
spirit of brotherhood among local and foreign students.

"The celebration of Ramadan in Malaysia and Nigeria is totally different because
the celebration here looks grand but in Nigeria it is just moderate," she added.
--BERNAMA