nhk world's sherilyn pang reports. >> reporter: this is a traditional ramadan dinner in malaysia. for this muslim family, the first course consists of fruit eaten a little at a time because fruit is easily digested on an empty stomach. but many young people fill their empty stomachs with heavy meals. they love greasy food and sweet juice purchased at street stalls. a recent survey shows that malaysia has an obesity rate of more than 40%, one of the highest in asia. >> from my observation, usually people will eat in one shop and they'll see other interesting other course like fried chicken. >> reporter: but some people are choosing another alternative. it's ramadan season, and families are enjoying something different to break their fast. during ramadan this japanese restaurant served a special buffet with sushi as the main course. even though prices were relatively high, the restaurant was crowded. and during this period, the customers were predominantly muslims. >> this food is something i really enjoy eating because it's really clean, healthy, and light. >> reporter: one of the