Why I chose the veil? I used to be a girl who only wore hijab (scarf)during Ramadaan(fasting month). In 2016, after Ramadaan, I continued adorning the hijab but not full time.

I realised I wore it for comfort, habit,  and not for the pleasure of Allah Ta’ala

I didn’t know the true meaning and value of being modest.

I remember when I was younger, I used to attend Janaza’s ( funerals ) wearing full Islamic attire.

Outward,  I looked Muslim, but inwards,  I felt corrupt.

I felt lost, I felt a certain longing that I could not understand or explain.

Gradually after some time, I began dressing more modestly.

Changing the western style to a more modest wear, but being in university,  made it difficult because I was more focused on the reaction, opinions of others than what was actually beneficial for myself.

I was afraid I might not fit in with everyone else, I was afraid of mockery and criticism.

I was worried about whether my Islamic attire would be accepted in  certain fields of employment, etc.

I realised my fear of others reaction was greater than their reaction itself.

I remembered and reminded myself that,  this isn’t for them. This is between Allah and myself, and surely one’s faith must be greater than one’s fear.

We cannot deny that there are many benefits to wearing a niqab/scarf.

We should always renew our intentions daily and ensure everything is done solely for the pleasure of Allah Ta’ala.

There is nothing wrong in progress when it comes to being modest.

Wearing a niqab does not mean you are better than the next muslimah.

It just means you are treading on a path to better yourself, reform yourself.

Niqab makes me feel liberated, makes me feel more aware of my imperfections. I feel special and safeguarded.

There are undescribable moments in my life where I found myself pondering over the greatness of Islam and became more grateful to be a Muslim.

Some people may think the manner in which a Muslimah dresses is oppressing but in actual fact, it’s just a means of safeguarding an individuals chastity, beauty from the eyes of the one who seeks for nothing but immodest intentions and desires.

Do not underestimate your progress with anything.

Don’t think for a second that Allah Ta’ala does not hear criticism, that He’s not aware of the struggles you experience due to adorning the Islamic attire.

A single drop of sweat due to blocking your body, safeguarding your identity, hayaa(modesty), can be your key to the gates of Jannah(paradise) inshaAllah.