Families celebrate Aidilfitri in a spirit of unity and togetherness

As Muslims across Malaysia prepare to celebrate Aidilfitri, the joyous festival marking the end of Ramadan, Nurfarah Zafirah Foo Abdullah and her husband Foad Ibrahim are busy keeping a cherished tradition alive.

In their household, gender roles are delightfully reversed during the festive season.

Foad takes over the kitchen, drawing on his late mother’s culinary expertise to prepare an array of delectable Aidilfitri dishes for their annual open house.

Celebrating unity through shared traditions

Nurfarah, a convert to Islam 30 years ago, highlights the importance of inclusivity in their celebrations.

“We invite both my family and Foad’s relatives to celebrate together,” she says.

“Everyone comes together regardless of cultural or religious differences.”

Their open house stretches across three days, with each day dedicated to a different group of guests.

Foad’s culinary talents are a particular source of pride for Nurfarah.

“His speciality is the roasted lamb and ayam ros, a family recipe passed down from his mother,” she beams.

“Everyone loves them! Foad learned these skills from his excellent cook of a mother, and I must admit, I don’t cook nearly as well as he does.”

Foad, now the head of the family, reminisces about larger gatherings in the past.

“Before my in-laws passed away, all our relatives would gather at their house for a grand celebration,” he says.

“Now, their absence leaves a void, and the festivities feel quieter.”

With their children grown and living away from home, Nurfarah and Foad cherish the time spent together during Raya.

Embracing the spirit of Aidilfitri

While traditions have adapted – Raya cookies are now bought from friends and lemang purchased from vendors – the core values remain.

“We teach our children to be respectful of everyone, regardless of background,” Nurfarah says. “We emphasise peace, love, and compassion.”

The spirit of togetherness extends to their outfits.

The family coordinates their Baju Raya Sedondon, this year opting for a sleek black ensemble. Nurfarah acknowledges the rising cost of living but remains undeterred.

“We will still celebrate Raya to the best of our ability,” she says.

Nurfarah, who works in compliance and ethics, and Foad, a business owner, represent a double-income family fortunate enough to weather the economic climate.

Despite the changing dynamics, the essence of Aidilfitri – celebrating family, unity, and togetherness – endures.

In light of recent racial tensions, Nurfarah offers a message of unity: “Let’s embrace diversity and understand each other’s cultures and religions better.

Maaf, Zahir dan Batin,” she says, seeking forgiveness from the heart.

Nurfarah and Foad’s story exemplifies the enduring spirit of Aidilfitri – a time for families and communities to come together, celebrate their traditions, and strengthen the bonds that unite them.

Muslims in Malaysia celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri on April 10th this year.