Jacqueline David
KUCHING, MALAYSIA: As the calendar aligns in a unique occurrence, Christians and Muslims around the world find themselves observing Lent and Ramadan at the same time – two sacred periods of fasting, reflection and spiritual devotion.
This rare overlap brings a deeper sense of unity among different faiths, highlighting shared values of self-discipline, prayer and charity.
Just at the beginning of March 2025, when Christians commemorate the 40-day Lenten season leading up to Easter, Muslims embarked on a month-long journey of fasting during Ramadan, fostering a time of renewal, sacrifice, and gratitude.
The simultaneous observance of these traditions presents an opportunity for interfaith dialogue, mutual respect, and a stronger sense of community.
James Zebedee Empati
In Sarawak, Lent and Ramadan unite communities across faiths and cultures.
In an increasingly divided world, the simultaneous observance of Lent and Ramadan serves as a powerful reminder of unity, shared values, and mutual respect.
These two sacred periods – Lent for Christians and Ramadan for Muslims – are marked by fasting, prayer, self-reflection and acts of charity, creating a unique opportunity for interfaith dialogue and communal harmony.
For 30 year-old James Zebedee Empati, he said Sarawak’s interfaith harmony shines as Ramadan and Lent overlap.
“Families and friends support each other in their spiritual practices.
“There’s a shared understanding of the importance of spiritual discipline, and often, they break fast or share meals together in the evening, reinforcing familial bonds.
“In workplaces and communities, mutual respect fosters understanding and consideration among the people.
“Some workplaces even organise communal iftars or simple gatherings to foster inclusivity,” he said.
A trainer by profession, 58-year-old Joseph Tan Kheng Chai said Sarawak, in general, has always been a place of religious tolerance.
Tan added, there is a sense of respect and understanding towards those who are observing Lent, as they refrain from certain food and activities as a form of spiritual discipline, and for the Muslims, during the month of Ramadan, they fast from dawn until dusk.
“In Sarawak, we are generally respectful of these practices and often make accommodations to ensure that our Muslim families, friends and colleagues are able to observe Ramadan without any difficulty, and so do our Christian families, friends and colleagues.
“We Sarawakians are still able to practise our religious beliefs respectively, and at the same time, these religious beliefs are often supported and respected by a community,” he said.
Meanwhile, being a Christian in Sarawak, a convergence of Ramadan and Lent this year is a unique opportunity to strengthen interfaith harmony, reflecting the deep spirit of unity and respect that Sarawak is known for, says Lynch Cowan Robert Kenneth.
“In our families, it is common to see members of different faiths supporting one another – whether by joining in prayers, preparing meals for breaking fast, or simply offering words of encouragement.
“This mutual respect allows us to grow closer, not just as family members but as fellow children of God,” said Lynch.
The 30-year-old civil servant said in workplaces, Sarawakians have long practised understanding and accommodation.
“During this season, Christian colleagues can show support by being mindful of fasting hours, while Muslim colleagues also acknowledge the significance of Lent.
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“This mutual consideration fosters a positive work environment built on respect and kindness,” he said.
At the community level, he added, interfaith harmony is visible in how people come together for charitable activities, such as feeding the needy or engaging in joint prayer gatherings.
“Churches and mosques alike promote messages of love, sacrifice, and self-discipline – values that resonate across both faiths.
“Ultimately, this special overlap between Ramadan and Lent reminds us of the shared values of faith, reflection and service.
“As a Christian, I see it as a beautiful time for Sarawakians to demonstrate God’s love by standing together in unity, peace and mutual support,” he said.
– Source: Sarawak Tribune is a Sarawakian news portal that highlights Sarawak-centric news and other stories of relevance to Sarawak.
