A week before 'Hari Raya Puasa', there is much excitement in the air as Muslims all over the country prepare to celebrate one, the most joyous festivals of the year. Also known as 'Hari Raya Aidil Fitri', it marks the end of a month-long period of prayer (terawih) and fasting in the month of 'Rahmadan'. Falling on the first day of 'Syawal', which is to be determined by the Keeper of the Seal (Penyimpan Mohor Besar Raja-raja) upon the sighting of the moon, it is a great time for reunions.
This is the time of the year a majority of the Muslim population go through an annual exodus which leaves the capital cities and major towns in the country virtually deserted. To understand the 'balik kampung' (back to the village) syndrome, one has to understand that the urban drift which started in '60s brought thousands of rural folks into the capitals and major towns. These 'migrant' populace have their roots in the 'kampung'. So for those who have left their homes in search of fortune, life can be a lonely affair in the teeming 'concrete jungles'. So, once a year, they look forward with avid anticipation to returning home to the familiar, friendly environs of the 'kampung' where everyone knows everyone.
Mothers and grandmothers in the 'kampung' take great pains to prepare the favourite delicacies and dishes for this great home-coming. Most of the train stations, airports, bus stations and taxi-stands are are chock-a-block with people all rushing to go home. This takes place a few days before as well as on the eve of 'Hari Raya Puasa'.
On the eve, the 'takbir ikhram' is offered which marks the beginning of the Raya festivities. Early the next morning, the menfolk go to the mosques while the women stay behind to prepare for visitors. Later, the whole family have a grand breakfast together. Children ask forgiveness from their parents and are given money tokens. It has become a recent practice for the money to be placed in green packets rather like the 'ang pows' given during the Chinese New Year. During this day of celebration, Muslims also remember their departed loved ones by visiting the grave-yards and sprinkling 'bunga rampai' (fragrant leaves and flowers) as a sign of respect.
Although Muslims all over the world celebrate the 'Hari Raya Puasa', the Malaysians have a unique way of sharing their joy with friends and acquaintances of various races and religions. They hold 'open house' parties when relatives and friends drop in to join in the festivities.
This practice was first introduced by our beloved 'Bapa Malaysia' (Father of Malaysia), as the late Tunku Abdul Rahman, is referred to. He opened his house to the public during this festive occasion and it was not only the VIPs who came to greet him "Selamat Hari Raya" but also the common people of all races. Soon this practice was adopted not only by other political leaders all over the country but also by the common people themselves. it also was adopted by the political leaders of the other major races within the country. So now it has become a common practice and a way of life uniquely Malaysian. In a multi-racial nation, such as Malaysia, it is indeed a wonderful practice to foster goodwill and harmonious relations among the races.