Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2010

Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2010

Hari Raya Aidilfitri literally means “Celebration Day of Fasting”.   It is a Muslim holiday that marks the end of Ramadan,  the Islamic holy month of fasting (Puasa). The festival symbolizes the breaking of the fasting period.  It is celebrated starting on the first day of the Islamic month of Shawwal.   Around the world, there are many names to refer to this day, which is one of the most important festival for Muslims.  It is also known as Hari Raya Lebaran, Hari Raya Idul Fitri, and Hari Raya Puasa.

In Singapore, the first day of the Hari Raya is celebrated as a public holiday and the whole nation celebrated together this important day.  This year, it falls on Friday, 10 September 2010.  The rich Malay heritage of Singapore come to life during this festive session. 

Remember to check how to maximize your leaves 2010 to enjoy the festival session to its fullest.

What To Say

The main greeting used by Muslims in Singapore and Malaysia is “Selamat Hari Raya” which means “wishing you a joyous Hari Raya” in Malay.

What To Do

To soak in the atmosphere of the festival, you should visit the street festivities and light-ups in Geylang Serai and Kampong Glam. Visit the various Mosque around Singapore such as Sultan Mosque and Jamae Mosque.  See live performances at Raya Harmoni and and shop at numerous bazaars featuring a variety of traditional Malay delicacies and souvenirs.

Visit the exuberant Nasi Pandang belts of Arab Street and Bussorah Street for good Muslim food.  If you’re looking for Hari Raya souvenirs or goodies during this period, head down to the inviting shopping complexes in Joo Chiat and Tanjong Katong, where you’ll find plenty of Malay snacks, traditional costumes and handicrafts.

Outdoor markets (or ‘Ramadan bazaars’)  are held in many areas around the country.  You will find all sorts of traditional Malay delicacies and kueh (cakes) are sold for breaking fast (or ‘buka puasa’).   The Geylang Serai Market lies in the heart of the Singapore Malay community and has been recently remodeled to embrace the rustic quality of the old Malay kampong houses.  If you would like to enjoy food in comfort, many Hotels and restaurants (such as Hajah Maimunah Restaurant and Tambuah Masare) also offering exorbitant Ramadan buffets and traditional Malay delicacies.

The Hari Raya Light-Up is also not to be missed, where you can witness fantastic decorations and colourful lights that will bring the streets to life.   Performances by local, Indonesian and Malaysian celebrities, such as Andrew Andhika, Chelsea Olivia, Norleena Salim and Zaleha Hamid can also be enjoyed. 

The Malay Village will also play host to the Gema Ramadhan 2010, featuring performances such as Javanese and Malay dance, a fashion show and Silat, a Malay martial art form.

Wishing all Muslims and friends, Selamat Hari Raya!!!

Photos:  chooyutshing, williamcho 

Source:  Your Singapore