Hari Raya Aidilfitri is an annually celebrated event that marks the end of the Muslim fasting month, also known as Ramadan. Typically on the first day of Syawal, the tenth month of the Hijrah (Islamic) calendar, there are joyful celebrations that are loud, raucous, and — after a month of abstinence — well-deserved. This day is also known as Hari Raya Puasa (puasa means “fasting”).
Prior to this day, Muslims located in the cities typically balik kampung (return to their home towns) in order to celebrate Hari Raya with their families. This day is usually also a national holiday, so school children and working adults can spend time with their family without worrying about formal obligations.
The day itself opens with an early-morning prayer at the mosque, where Muslims give thanks for their blessings. They also seek forgiveness from family and friends for any trespasses, believing that peace and harmony is the way for all. Some families may also choose to visit the graves of departed loved ones, in order to pray for their souls, and more traditional communities may also light up the pelita (lamp) in their homes.
Muslims also tend to dress up for the occasion. Women wear the baju kurung (traditional Malay dress), baju kebaya (traditional blouse-dress), or a jubah (long one-piece dress), while men typically don a songkok (traditional hat) and the baju Melayu (traditional men’s wear).
Of course, no Hari Raya is complete without the excellent cuisine typically offered up at “open houses.” Usually, Muslims invite their friends and family (including non-Muslims) to their home to partake in traditional delicacies like the ketupat (rice dumpling cooked in a palm leaf pouch), rendang (meat stewed in spices), dodol (sticky, soft, toffee-like sweet), and satay (skewered meat). This invitation is extended in the spirit of love, harmony, and community.
Have fun and say “Selamat Hari Raya!”
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