LOVE KNOWS NO RELIGION
Non-Muslim dad wakes up Muslim convert son for ‘sahur’, ensures he performs prayers and attends religious classes
“EVERY day at 5am, I will wake my son up for sahur (predawn meal). Although we practise different religions, I make sure he follows the teachings of Islam diligently,” said Lim Hun Kheng.
That is the daily routine of Lim, 44, the father of Mohammad Firdaus Hong Abdullah, 12, who is celebrating Ramadan for the second year after embracing Islam in March last year.
Lim said after sahur, he would ensure that Firdaus performed his subuh prayers. He sends Firdaus to school in the morning, and religious and fardhu ain classes in the afternoon.
“I did not object to Firdaus embracing Islam. As a father, I give him my full support and encouragement.
“Although his daily activities are packed, I want him to allocate time to deepen his understanding of the religion. I allow him to make Muslim friends and study Islam with his adopted family.”
Firdaus, whose original name is Lim Ching Hong, said he was excited with the arrival of Ramadan as he could perform
tarawih prayers with his friends.
He said after the fardhu ain classes, his father would take him to the Ramadan bazaar to buy roasted chicken, his favourite dish.
“It’s one of the activities I look forward to during Ramadan.
“But more importantly, since embracing Islam, I’ve found answers to many questions, like how man exists and where he comes from. I like to listen to stories about the prophets. The teachings of Islam give me peace of mind and fasting teaches me patience,” said the Year 6 pupil of SK Hakim Teh.
On his ability to recite the Quran, Firdaus said he had moved to Iqra tiga, and could memorise verses for prayers.
In his spare time, especially during the weekends, he visits his foster grandfather, Aziz Isa, 63, who lives in Pulau Timbul, to learn more about Islam.
“I learn how to perform congregational prayers and other religious matters. I like the life I am leading now. Many people care about me, including my teachers, who always help me. The school has bought me a new pair of baju raya.”