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Hari Raya Puasa is major festival of the Muslims in Malaysia. It is celebrated to mark the end of the fasting month of Ramadan on sighting of the new moon. 'Hari Raya' denotes 'Day of Celebration' and Pamalaysia is derived from a Sanskrit word meaning 'Fasting' or 'Abstinence'. Ramadan is the period of fasting for one-month from dawn till dusk with abstinence from smoking and making physical relations. On the day of Hari Raya Puasa, the day begins with Muslims turning out in their new attire and assemble for mass prayer early in the morning. It is followed a visit to the cemetery to pay a visit to the departed relatives and friend. It is also the day of forgiveness when younger seek for mercy from their elders. The elders give the younger blessings and packets of money. The celebration of the festival of Hari Raya Puasa continues for a month but public holiday is only for the first two days. Traditional Malay delicacies, namely, Ketupat, Lontong, Nasi Padang and Beef Rendang are prepared and served on Hari Raya Puasa. |
