Halram Fesital, also called Hari Raya Aidilfitri, is a religious holiday celebrated by Muslims. Hari Raya literally means ‘celebration day’, and Hari Raya Aidilfitri is the day that marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of dawn-to-sunset fasting. Various non-governmental organisations and other associations convey their wishes and greetings on the occasion of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, is considered one of the two most important celebrations for Muslims, the other being Hari Raya Haji – the festival of Abraham’s sacrifice.
Hari Raya is one of the biggest holidays, and many Muslims (and even non-Muslims) return to their family home (balik kampong) driving or flying home for a couple of days before the day to be with their families and loved ones. There are often jams during this travelling time but these soon resolve as other travellers reach their destinations.
Hari Raya Aidilfitri sees families and friends seeking forgiveness from each other, visiting ancestors’ graves, saying prayers at the mosque and visiting relatives and friends to feast traditional delicacies like ketupat, rendang, satay, lemang and curry. In Malaysia, children are given token sums of money from their parents or elders.
The Ramadan period has communal aspects to it with many of the basic values of the Muslim community, such as empathy for the poor, charity, worship, steadfastness and patience being expressed more during this period.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It is a time of fasting for the Islamic people. Each day during this month, Muslims all over the world abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, as well as participating in anything that is ill-natured or excessive; from dawn until the sun sets. Fasting is intended to educate the Muslim in spirituality, humility and patience. It is a time to cleanse the soul, focus attention on God, and put into practice selflessness. Ramadan is a time for Muslims to fast for the sake of God and to put forward more prayer than is customary.During the holiday, ramadan is also a good time for people to shop anything needed. Many shopped from China Wholesale at home.
Across the country, the Ramadan month provides great food choices for those who like to sample authentic Malay cuisines. Ramadan bazaars are set up across various neighbourhoods like Pantai Dalam, TTDI, Section 17, Section 14, Kelana Jaya, and Cheras, with a huge selection of food stalls lining the streets.
Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a joyous celebration that involves happy feasting in homes everywhere where family members greet one another with Selamat Hari Raya.