AUGUST 11 — The first day of Ramadan and hundreds have already started queuing at the Masjid Jamek Kampung Baru, not so much for prayers but for its famous bubur lambuk or rice porridge with meat and herbs.

Most Malaysian states have their versions of this Malay rice porridge which is specially prepared for the break of fast or iftar or buka puasa as it is known in Malaysia during Ramadan.

The aromatic spices used in preparing the porridge makes the porridge taste delicious and includes cardamom pods, star anise and cumin seeds are added to the boiling pot of rice. Meat is then added and boiled for hours before it is ready.

The rice porridge is usually distributed after the Asar or evening prayers at the mosque where it is prepared by volunteers. Outside the mosque, stalls line the streets during Ramadan selling their versions of the bubur lambuk.

It is also available at the numerous Pasar Ramadan or bazaars that spring up in the evening across Malaysian towns and cities, catering to those who want a taste of delicacies to break their fast.

Muslims fast from dawn to dusk for the entire month of Ramadan before celebrating the Eid or Hari Raya Aidilfitri as it is known in Malaysia.