KUALA LUMPUR, March 12 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia's Muslims observed the start of Ramadan on Tuesday, following the sighting of the crescent moon.
Malaysia's King Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar extended his greetings to the country's Muslims, calling on them to strengthen the brotherhood among fellow believers and putting aside disagreements, disputes and conflicts.
Many were seen conducting last minute shopping and preparation ahead of the religious month, when followers of the Islamic faith abstain from eating during daylight hours.
"I want to have enough on hand so I can prepare my meals without having to shop for essentials throughout the month. Prices will be higher at bazaars and even at supermarkets," a female shopper said at a shopping center in Kuala Lumpur.
Ramadan bazaars, a popular fixture of the season, have sprung up across the country, offering a variety of seasonal food items. Prices for certain goods including beef, chicken, mutton and onion have already gone up markedly in recent days.
Meanwhile, the health ministry said it would conduct checks to ensure food safety at these bazaars in cooperation with local authorities. ■