In Malaysia, there is a festival called Eid al-Fitr. More commonly known as Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Eid al-Fitr is a festival widely celebrated by Muslims worldwide. This festival is held at the end of Ramadan, which symbolises the conclusion of fasting. Eid al-Fitr is an Arabic term that can be translated as “festival of breaking the fast.”
Eid al-Fitr was devised by the Prophet Muhammad, as believed in Muslim tradition. Fasting on the day of Eid is not allowed, and it is compulsory to donate money to those who are less fortunate before saying a special prayer that is only said during Eid. Muslims are encouraged to be forgiving and ask for forgiveness for the wrongdoings that have been committed. The Islamic calendar is lunar, so celebrations cannot commence until a new moon is seen; this is why the date of Eid al-Fitr varies each year.
It is customary for Muslims to dress in traditional cultural clothing on this day. The men wear baju melayu, which is a shirt worn with a songkok and kain samping. The clothing that the women wear is known as baju kurung and baju kebaya, typically made with delicate and light material and embroidered with patterns. It is also sometimes adorned with brooches.
People also have open houses and stay at home to receive and entertain family and other visitors and guests. People who aren’t Muslims are usually still welcome at these open houses during Eid. Foods such as ketupat, satay, and dodol are usually served during these celebrations. Kuih-muih, like kuih lapis and kuih bahulu, are also served as dessert. A phrase that is frequently said during Eid al-Fitr in order to greet people is “Selamat Hari Raya” which is the Eid equivalent of “Merry Christmas.”
During the festival of Eid al-Fitr, there is a tradition where Muslims give green envelopes that are filled with money to the guests who decide to visit their homes. The green envelopes have a similar concept as the Chinese angpao custom, with the exception of the traditional colour of the packets.
The idea is born from zakat, a concept where Muslims are mandated to donate a certain percentage of their money to the poor. Nowadays, Malays not only give green envelopes to the less fortunate but also to those who are of relative wealth. The quantity of money in the green envelopes depends on how much the host decides to put into them. Green envelopes are distributed not only as a charitable contribution but also as a form of gratitude.
Eid al-Fitr is a wondrous way to celebrate the diversity of Islamic heritage, culture, and traditions. Eid al-Fitr is a festival that builds stronger bonds between families and communities. Our daily lives often keep us away from our family and friends, so holidays like these are great for restrengthening your relationship. Celebrating Eid al-Fitr even as a non-muslim can expose people to different cultures and customs. It also has the added benefit of uniting people regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, or social backgrounds. It can allow everyone to be able to live in more peace and harmony with each other.
By: Lee Jennell
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