Kolej Ramadan diaries

By: Iman Lin Binti Azmel

‘Kolej Ramadan Diaries’ highlights the unique blend of student life and spirituality during the holy month, featuring iftar gatherings, Sahur routines, and a strong sense of community on campus. This special time fosters unity as students navigate both academic and religious commitments together. Campus life slows down, allowing space for inner reflection and making meaningful connections between peers.

From a personal perspective, during Ramadan, I was caught in a strange mix of stress and tranquillity — stressed from the growing pile of assignments, juggling classes, and the physical toll of fasting. Yet somehow I felt more at peace than usual. There was a slower rhythm to everything that gave me room to breathe, reflect, and reset.

The time spent with my friends felt more meaningful; sharing iftar, laughing during late-night talks, and helping each other through sleepy mornings made me realise how special that month really is. It only comes once a year, and every moment feels worth holding on to. Through it all, my faith grew stronger — not just in prayer, but in the everyday choices and quiet moments that brought me closer to who I want to be.

Earlier this week, I had the opportunity to interview several students about their experiences during Ramadan in kolej. While their responses and routines varied, common themes of spiritual connection, gratitude, and self-reflection emerged throughout the conversations. The questions I asked were as follows:

What is your impression of the school for being able to host events like Subuh Perdana, iftar, and Bubur Lambuk?

The first group I spoke to was my classmates, Arianna and Myiesha. Arianna said it was an amazing opportunity to help us strengthen our ibadah. Myiesha added that, as many of us have made mistakes in the past, events like these encourage self-reflection and personal growth.

The second group included Aariz, Shazwan, and Amir. Aariz felt proud of the school for organising meaningful events and encouraging student participation to create a balanced environment. Shazwan shared that he was impressed by how the school fosters a strong sense of community, emphasising not only academic excellence but also embracing cultural and religious values.

Do you believe that during Ramadan, you felt better as a person? 

Arianna and Myiesha simply answered, ‘Yes’. Aariz and Amir both shared similar views, while Shazwan reflected that the experiences brought him closer to his family and friends, strengthening his bonds with them.

From your perspective, do you think there was more you could’ve done?

Arianna and Myiesha reflected that they could have woken up earlier, more consistently for solat tahajud, not just during exam week. Aariz wished he could have done more acts of ibadah, especially with the awareness that each Ramadan could potentially be his last. Shazwan felt he could’ve improved both personally and academically, while Amir shared that he wished he had spent more time reading the Qur’an.

Were there any specific moments where you felt your religious connection grow stronger?

Arianna and Myiesha both felt a deeper connection during solat terawih. Aariz highlighted the last 10 nights of Ramadan as being especially spiritual. Shazwan felt his connection growing steadily throughout the entire month, as he was more mindful of his actions and good deeds, knowing their rewards were multiplied during this time.

In conclusion, the students’ reflections highlighted how Ramadan in kolej was more than just a period of fasting—it was a meaningful journey of spiritual growth, self-improvement, and community bonding. Events organised by the school played a significant role in deepening their connection to their faith and to one another.

Looking back, many recognise both the progress they’ve made and the areas they hope to improve in future Ramadans, carrying forward the lessons and values they’ve gained.