Authorities took action against a group of traders in Melaka after they were found selling breakfast to Muslim customers as early as 9am, in clear violation of religious norms during Ramadan.
The operation was conducted last Thursday (5 March) by the Melaka Islamic Religious Department (JAIM) at a food court in the Ayer Keroh industrial area.
Melaka’s Executive Councillor for Education, Higher Learning, and Religious Affairs, Datuk Rahmad Mariman, expressed disappointment over the incident.
“We are disheartened by the blatant disregard for the sacred month of fasting, done merely in pursuit of profit,” he said.
Customers could not justify why they did not fast
During the raid, nine individuals aged between their 20s and 40s were detained. Six were male traders, three were female, and three of the detained were Muslim customers suspected of skipping the fast. Rahmad said these customers, who work in self‑employed or private‑sector jobs, could not provide a reasonable justification for not fasting.
All nine individuals were served a Notice to Appear under Section 49 of the Melaka State Syariah Offences Enactment 1991, highlighting the seriousness of the violation, reported Sinar Harian.
JAIM emphasised that traders were aware their early‑morning sales to Muslims were inappropriate but continued for profit, a move considered insensitive during the holy month. The department added that such enforcement actions serve as a reminder of the importance of adhering to religious and legal obligations during Ramadan.
Moving forward, JAIM plans to increase monitoring operations across key areas in Melaka throughout the remainder of Ramadan to ensure compliance with Syariah law.
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