A Plant-Based Lifestyle: One Couple’s Journey as Muslim Vegans
PETALING JAYA: When most people think of Raya, their minds immediately go to the indulgent spread of beef rendang, ayam masak merah, and satay sizzling on the grill. But what if that feast was entirely plant-based?
For Malaysians Aina Fazlin Ibrahim Bajunid and Faisal Mansor, observing a plant-based only diet is not just an option – it’s their way of life.
Aina’s Journey to Plant-Based Living
Aina, a vegetarian since her teenage years, recalled the moment that made her question eating meat. "I’ve always had a love for animals. I remember during Eid al-Adha, when I saw a cow being slaughtered. I looked into its eyes, and while everyone around me was celebrating, I felt fear and sadness," she revealed.
Her grandfather, an Imam for over 70 years, assured her that her feelings were perfectly valid. "I asked him, ‘Is it wrong if I don’t eat meat as a Muslim?’ He told me that if I connect with an animal and feel pity for it, then it’s okay not to eat it."
Faisal’s Transition to Plant-Based Living
Faisal, on the other hand, took a different path, becoming vegetarian almost by accident while studying in the US. "It was just really hard to find halal food, so I naturally stopped eating meat," he explained. But the turning point came when they had their first child. "Our son was three when we noticed he had severe allergies and asthma. We were in the hospital at least once a month – it became our second home," Faisal shared.
Their Plant-Based Lifestyle
The couple has been living a fully plant-based lifestyle for several years, with Aina and Faisal having transitioned into careers in wellness consulting and training, having completed professional diplomas in diet and nutrition. "Our families were against it at first. They worried our children wouldn’t get enough nutrition," Aina admitted. "But we used our knowledge to craft a nutritionally balanced plant-based diet."
Challenges and Triumphs
Navigating social settings as a vegan Muslim can be challenging, especially during open houses. But Aina and Faisal have found a simple yet effective approach. "We always bring at least one dish we can eat, which also gives the host an opportunity to try plant-based food," Aina shares. Their signature jackfruit rendang is always a hit!
The Power of Plant-Based Living
Interestingly, Faisal pointed out that traditional Malay cuisine was once more plant-based than many realise. "When I asked my mother, she told me they only had chicken twice a year and beef maybe once – usually during Raya. Most meals were cassava, green vegetables, and other plant-based ingredients," he said.
Conclusion
For Aina and Faisal, their plant-based lifestyle is not just a choice, but a way of living that brings them closer to their faith and to each other. As they continue to share their story and inspire others to adopt a plant-based lifestyle, they hope to create a ripple effect that will change the way Malaysians eat and live.
FAQs
Q: How do you navigate social settings as a vegan Muslim?
A: We always bring at least one dish we can eat, which also gives the host an opportunity to try plant-based food.
Q: What’s your favorite plant-based dish?
A: Our signature jackfruit rendang is always a hit!
Q: How did you make the transition to plant-based living?
A: For Aina, it was a gradual process, starting with vegetarianism in her teenage years. For Faisal, it was a more sudden decision, made while studying in the US.
Q: Do you think your faith has been affected by your plant-based lifestyle?
A: We believe that our faith is not compromised by our plant-based lifestyle. In fact, it has brought us closer to our faith and to each other.
Q: Can you share more about your Facebook group, Muslim Veg Malaysia?
A: Yes, we founded the group in October 2020 as a space for like-minded individuals to share experiences and ask questions about navigating vegetarianism and veganism as Muslims. For more details, follow the Muslim Veg Malaysia Facebook page.