Passers-by along Birkirkara’s Naxxar Road this morning were witness to an unusual sight as the popular Smart Supermarket’s parking area became a temporary place of worship where part of Malta’s Muslim community gathered to celebrate one of Islam’s holiest days – Eid-al-Fitr.

Eid-al-Fitr marks the end of the month-long Ramadan period, when Muslims typically fast from dawn until sunset.

WhosWho.mt reached out to Smart Supermarket Director Mark Ciantar to find out more about the heartwarming display of intercultural integration.

Mr Ciantar said the supermarket is committed to fostering community unity. In fact, it has been asked for permission to use its parking area for the Eid celebration in previous years, and has happily obliged.

“They have a permit and seamlessly conduct their festivities without causing any disruptions," he says. “We are happy to support the community, and proud to embrace intercultural harmony.”

He admits that passers-by who see the gathering have occasionally complained to the supermarket’s owners, but says the company’s board does not see any valid reason for such complaints, affirming Smart Supermarket's "unwavering support."

“They meet, pray, and don’t bother anyone,” he says. "The Eid gatherings are peaceful, early-morning affairs, inconspicuously blending into our operational rhythm," he clarifies.

Smart Supermarket is of course not the only place where Muslims gather in Malta. The mosque in Paola became a hub of activity this morning, leading some to complain about the traffic caused – though others were quick to point out that much the same happens every week during the summer, when Malta’s towns and villages celebrate the feasts of their parish saints.

The latest census estimated Muslims to make up between six and seven per cent of Malta’s population, most of whom are foreign. However, the Paola mosque remains the only official Muslim pace of worship on the islands,