Family tree . . . Holding grandson Isaac Ani (8 months), Ani Noh (left) says he is very happy with his life in Oamaru. With him are (from left) his wife Ramlah Jusoh, daughter-in-law Hani Mohd, son PJ Ani, and grandson Eidyn (2) Ani. PHOTO: RUBY HEYWARD
In 1985, a bright-eyed Ani Noh travelled from his home in Malaysia to take up seasonal work at the Alliance Group Pukeuri meat works.
He was one of the plant’s first halal slaughtermen and one of the first people of the Islamic faith to live in Oamaru.
During the processing season, Mr Noh spent time hunting and fishing and became very close friends with Elton Wilson, who worked in the boiler room at the works, and Eric Smith, a painter.
Ramadan is about a lot more than just fasting.
Oamaru Islamic Centre president Ahmed Elsaka said it was a time of empathy and generosity, and all about self control, spiritually and psychologically.
“It makes it feel like you can overcome anything,” Dr Elsaka said.
“People feel closer to God.”
From sunrise to sunset, Muslims do not eat or drink during Ramadan.
There was often a misconception that people were forced to fast or that it was unsafe and unhealthy, he said.
“Safety comes as a priority [and] people can break the fasting.
“No-one will put themselves or others in danger.”