Muslims in Malaysia began preparations for Ramadan with crowded food markets after religious officials confirmed the fasting month would start over the weekend.

Streets in the capital Kuala Lumpur have already taken on a new image with colourful bazaars made up of hundreds of makeshift tents offering a taste of traditional delicacies.

For Muslims here, the beginning of the ninth month in the Muslim lunar calendar which marks the start of Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, prayers and feasting. In Malaysia, it begins at dawn on Sunday.

For most city dwellers who do not have time to cook, the bazaars offer a variety of food such as chicken rice, grilled fish and chicken, although sharp price rises have clouded the mood.

Siti Nora, a 35-year-old businesswoman, complained that the price of fish, prawns, chicken and vegetables had all shot up.

"This has dampened my mood. I have to be cautious in my spending," she said.

Siti blamed the high prices on traders taking advantage of a sharp fuel and cooking gas hike in February.

"The market was crowded. Traders know consumers have no choice so they push up prices,' she said. "It is a strain on my purse."

Opportunity for extra income

Ramadan also provides an opportunity for many to earn extra income ahead of the Hari Raya Adil Fitri celebrations which marks the end of the fasting month.

Mohamad Farid Ismail, who works in a factory where salaries are usually low, has applied for a month-long leave so he can operate a stall that would bring in more money.

"My wife does not work and it is quite difficult for us when it comes to Hari Raya celebration as we have three children," he said.

During Ramadan Muslims do not eat, drink, smoke or have sex between sunrise and sunset.

Sensory deprivation during Ramadan, one of the five pillars of Islam, is intended to remind the faithful of the suffering of those less well off than themselves.