BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Brunei: In what is seen as unique to Brunei Darussalam, the `Abode of Peace' where Islam is the official religion, non-Muslims are seen to be highly respectful of the rituals and habits performed by the Muslims during the holy fasting month of Ramadhan.

While hefty fines are imposed on Muslims caught eating, drinking or even smoking in public, no such restrictions are made on non-Muslims.

Nevertheless, members of the non-Muslim community are rarely seen eating out or `snacking' in public in broad daylight.

"Although I am not a Muslim, I will avoid eating or drinking in public at all costs," said Sim, a devoted Buddhist. He added that he was doing it "out of respect for Islam".

Meanwhile, in the holy month of Ramadhan, there are several evident signs of how such an important month can have an impact on the commercial landscape of the country, which has added an air of festivity to this holy month.

This is manifested through the annual Ramadhan stalls set up all over the nation, and hotels and restaurants offering buffets and the surging number of people flocking to supermarkets or stores.

The emergence of stalls in several locations such as the one at the National Stadium is an annual event not to be missed by all. Local foods are not the only ones that have made their way to the stalls as a means to tempt customers. Some western and other regional cuisines too are on sale.

A visit to the stalls is not only seen as a means for commercial transaction but also as a way to observe the customs and habits of the local community. As the saying goes, `to see the people of the country one has to take a look at the market'.

As worship and spiritual duty is placed first and foremost especially in the month of Ramadhan, the spiritual aspects essentially include clearing the mind of negative thoughts and the heart of ill feelings, suspicions and enmity towards others.

Ramadhan is a time normally spent with loved ones and those close to you, and so the 'Sungkai' or break of fast often involves a get-together of family and friends.