MACAU —-— On the first day, Muhammad Nur, the Dompet Dhuafa 2026 Dai Ambassador assigned to preach in Macau, was treated to a heartwarming sight. In a simple room serving as a gathering place, the women were busy cooking traditional Indonesian dishes for a communal iftar. Others had just returned from their work shifts and immediately joined in preparing the iftar spread. Some shared stories of missing their hometowns, while others spoke of unfriendly employers. Everything flowed naturally in front of the congregation, while still observing boundaries—avoiding personal confessions.
“I didn’t expect to be welcomed so warmly on the very first day. They poured out all their grievances. It was here that I realized my role isn’t just to deliver religious advice or preach, but also to offer solutions amidst their busy lives. Of course, I’m also here to provide support for those far from their families,” explained Muhammad Nur.
The majority of Indonesian migrant workers in Macau work as domestic workers, restaurant servers, and hotel staff amidst the hustle and bustle of this international gambling city. They arrived with various dreams and hopes, yet many face challenges—ranging from document issues and unfair employers to acute homesickness for their families back home. Yet, despite all these limitations, their dedication to performing their religious duties and studying their faith is truly remarkable.
The First Night on Duty
After breaking the fast together, Muhammad Nur had the opportunity to deliver a Tarhib Ramadan sermon to the congregation. The simple room was packed with dozens of Indonesian migrant workers who had come straight from their respective workplaces.
“I witnessed firsthand that, despite being a Muslim minority in a city synonymous with gambling and global entertainment, Indonesian migrant workers in Macau are able to uphold Islamic teachings with great strength. They take turns reciting the Quran, preparing iftar snacks, and even set aside part of their wages for charity and almsgiving. Their harmony, unity, and enthusiasm in welcoming the holy month of Ramadan 1447 AH prove that da’wah knows no geographical boundaries,” explained Muhammad Nur.
That night became a deeply meaningful first night for Muhammad Nur. In a land far from home, in a city glittering with magnificent lights, Islam remains alive, warm, humble, and full of love. It is those resilient Indonesian migrant women who serve as the beacons of da’wah in Asia’s “Las Vegas.”
“The warmth I received on this first day surpassed the cold of Macau’s climate. The Indonesian migrant workers here taught me the meaning of resilience. That wherever one sets foot, there the sky of Islam is upheld. They are economic warriors who never tire of fighting, and at the same time, warriors of faith whose spirit for learning never fades,” concluded Muhammad Nur.
Now, Ramadan in Macau has begun. Muhammad Nur is ready to accompany the Indonesian migrant workers through their daily joys and sorrows, their complaints and hopes, which they bring from their hometowns. In this small, glittering land, da’wah continues to flow—warm and captivating.
Text and Photos: Muhammad Nur (Dai Ambassador of Dompet Dhuafa 2026, stationed in Macau)
Editor: Taufan YN