Many have forgotten the reasons to fast

Readers say overindulgence is against the spirit of Ramadan. Other topics: Malala's movie, fast cars and education.

A reader says iftar spreads tempt people to eat more than they should during Ramadan. Paulo Vecina / The National

I refer to Restraint at iftar means healthier holy month (July 16), which mentions the rise in digestive complaints during Ramadan.

It's because people go to iftar tents, pay a fortune and feel obliged to eat as much as they can to get their money's worth.

I have no idea how anyone can eat so much food during Ramadan. This is a time to cleanse your body and soul; a time to give and appreciate the sacrifices.

Lately, it seems, people have forgotten why they fast.

We are they wasting so much food that could be eaten by so many poor families.

Taghred Chandab, Dubai

Ayesha Almazroui's column questioning food consumption habits during Ramadan (Why do we waste so much food in the month of fasting?, July 15) is certainly an intriguing one.

At this time of year, grocery stores are definitely full of bright and eye-catching displays, and grocery trolleys seem to be particularly heavily laden.

But Ms Almazroui isn't the only one asking questions.

This week, while shopping at Spinneys, I came across a leaflet from the Consumer Protection Section of the UAE Department of Economic Development, which seems to be raising the same points.

The leaflet gives a list of 11 tips to consumers so they can "avoid being exploited in their need for basic foodstuff and to help them get rid of negative consuming behaviours".

Elizabete Baums, Abu Dhabi

People seem to have the wrong perception nowadays. Fasting means not indulging.

F Kearns, Al Ain

UAE well placed to tell Malala's story

I am writing about Malala, the movie: Abu Dhabi's tribute to courage (July 16).

Malala Yousafzai's story needs to be told, and it is even more important that it is told by another Muslim nation.

I am proud to say that I am a resident of the UAE, where there is freedom, respect and open-mindedness towards all races, genders and religions.

The UAE is showing support for Malala's rights as a woman and as a Muslim. She openly defied the Taliban, an extremist group that does not represent the views of mainstream Islam.

Malala's story is about basic human rights, not about politics or money.

P Geiger, Abu Dhabi

Education reform must gain pace

I refer to Education reform is a work in progress (July 11).

I know Emirati students have the same potential as any other students, but I believe the results of studies and surveys accurately reflect the reality of the current education system in the UAE.

I also believe that those attempting to address the gaps between expectations and results are well intentioned and sincere.

However, since I began following the UAE education system in 2005, the same issues, and the same results, have been presented.

TS Eliot said: "Between the idea and the reality ... falls the shadow."

For whatever reason, UAE students are living with an education that remains in the shadow.

Tom Patillo, Canada

Fast cars don't mix with young drivers

I am writing in reference to Driver killed as Ferrari ploughs into tree (July 15), about a 20-year-old accident victim.

Sadly, putting a high powered vehicle in the hands of a young person is a recipe for disaster, because many young people think they are invincible.

The focus here shouldn't be on the car, but on young drivers and the people who give their children such expensive vehicles.

C Murray, Abu Dhabi

Small business deserves a break

I refer to Don't risk losing out in the name game (July 15), which says global social-media company Facebook is considering legal action against a Dubai business called Facelook.

Come on Facebook, give this small hairdressing salon a break. Why can't you have a little sense of humour?

Nikki Yu, Dubai