It is sad to learn that the amount of food that is wasted in Makkah is enough to feed millions going hungry in Asia, Africa and Latin America (Jan. 23). It is also strange how the practice of food wastage, which is against the Shariah, can prevail in this Holy City. The Prophet, peace be upon him, has advised the ummah to eat less as it has various benefits. The habit of eating less has social, religious and health benefits, as food is saved, illnesses are driven away and praying and performing religious and social duties becomes easier.

Pilgrims, visitors, restaurant owners and Makkah Municipality are responsible for wastage of food. Restaurants should remind customers to avoid wasting the food they buy, while the municipality should put up announcements at public places in this regard.

Muslims, especially pilgrims and visitors, should not be allowed to waste food or drinks that Allah has given to them. He can revoke those gifts when human beings become ungrateful to Him. Good Muslims are the ones who think about others suffering or going hungry for days, even months, and try to help them.