Hari Raya Aidilfitri or Eid al-Fitr is the biggest celebration observed by Muslims in Malaysia. It is marked by various decorations seen in homes, shops, shopping complexes, and along the streets since the month of Ramadan.
Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a time of forgiveness and celebration. It marks the end of the Muslims’ Ramadan calendar and signals the beginning of Syawal, involving happy feasting celebrations of traditional food and the usual greeting of ‘Selamat Hari Raya!’
Although Malaysians and Muslims far and wide know about this festive holiday season, the history of Aidilfitri celebrations predates back since the dawn of the Islamic age. Let’s take a deep dive into the history of Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2023, and why it’s so important and special to Malaysians.
But before that, When is Hari Raya [year]?
Hari Raya Aidilfitri [year] will commence on 22nd April, Saturday in Malaysia. This day also signals a public holiday for all Malaysians.
The Date of Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2023:
Here’s a look at the observed date for the celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri in 2023.
| Year | Weekday | Date | Holidays | Area | Holiday Type |
| 2023 | Saturday | 22 APRIL | Hari Raya Aidilfitri | All States | Federal Public Holiday |
| 2023 | Sunday | 23 APRIL | Hari Raya Aidilfitri | All States | Federal Public Holiday |
History of Hari Raya Aidilfitri
Okay great, now we’ve gotten that sorted out – let’s have a look on the history of Hari Raya. As we’ve previously stated, Hari Raya Aidilfitri signals the beginning of Syawal and the end of Ramadan. Syawal is the 10th month of the calendar and is a month of celebration.
Where Ramadan is a month of empathy and worship, Syawal is where celebrations are held – after a month of fasting. It is a period of forgiveness, reunion and celebration among family and friends. A different name to Hari Raya Aidilfitri is Hari Raya Puasa in Malaysia, meaning the celebration after fasting.
Historical-wise, Hari Raya Aidilfitri can be traced back all the way since the age of Prophet Muhammad, beginning shortly after he migrated to Mecca, where Islam was strongly established. Hence, since that period, the festival Hari Raya Aidilfitri has been celebrated in grandeur.
How Do We Celebrate Hari Raya?
Hari Raya is a festive season filled with joy, reunion and most importantly – FOOD! The common celebration of Hari Raya comprises of many traditions and activities, such as…
1. Donning Traditional Clothes for Added Flair
An average day during Raya is seeing people walking around in their neat Baju Melayu and Baju Kurung. It’s a cultural celebration as much as it is a religious celebration, and we’re here for it!
2. Having Traditional Kuih and Cuisine for Raya
There are a variety of Kuih to choose from during this festive season. As we’ve said previously, the Raya celebrations is one filled with food! Kuih is a type of dessert foods commonly found around Southeast Asia, and there are so many types to choose from! From Nestum cornflakes to Semperit.
3. Adorning Households with Hari Raya Decorations
Bring out the lights and the Pelita – it’s time for Raya decorations. Lights are one of the essential aspects that create atmosphere and mood during this season.
Aside from the lighting, the ribbon ketupat is one thing that really exude the feel of Raya in its decorations. Some other examples of Raya decoration can be religious or ethnic-themed wall decorations that reflect Islamic heritage this holiday is build upon.
4. Listening to classic Raya tunes!
Every Malaysian knows the lyrics to classics like Suasana Hari Raya and Dendang Perantau, how could they not? They’re a staple song during this festive season. These songs are what makes Raya, Raya! They exude a certain holiday charm, and are very nice to sing along to. Raya wouldn’t be Raya without these classic songs!
5. Meeting Family and Friends
Another staple to the holiday are open houses. After all, Hari Raya Aidilfitri signals a time of celebration amid good food and good friends. It is a time where sons and daughters seek forgiveness from one another and towards parents.
6. Bunga Api All Day Everyday
Bunga Api and shooting off fireworks into the sky are examples of showcasing the Hari Raya spirit! It’s a fun activity, strengthened by quality time spent with loved ones.
With just a few days away from Raya, we’d like to take this chance to wish everyone a Selamat Hari Raya! May this joyous season be filled with fun and celebration for you!
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