Dates have always played an important role in the month of Ramadan, when Muslims around the world abstain from food and drink from dawn until dusk, traditionally breaking their fast with ripe dates.

Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah says the fasting month is supposed to teach the people to be prudent and not to waste food.

For the moment, Islam lives on, though the Sinicization campaign has palpably reduced the role and visibility of religion in daily life.

Chung Chee Yang has also been charged with four counts of beating up his bodyguards.

Chung Chee Yang and Choo Hin Voon are accused of committing criminal intimidation against the two victims and intentionally causing harm to them, among others.

Selangor police chief says a gun and bullets were seized in a raid while 100kg of gold bars was discovered following the arrests.

The victims were said to be beaten in turns on their backs with a cane by their employer and another worker.

Only immunised pilgrims are eligible for permits to perform the pilgrimage and to attend prayers in the Grand Mosque during Ramadan.

Doctors say that having vaccines during daily fasting time does not nullify one’s fast and may even improve immunity.