Origin & history
Hari Raya Puasa, meaning 'Celebration of Fasting' in Malay, originates from the Islamic festival Eid al-Fitr. It commemorates the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. The holiday was introduced to Singapore by Malay Muslim traders and settlers from the Malay Archipelago, who brought Islam to the region centuries ago. Over time, it became an integral part of Singapore's multicultural fabric, officially recognized as a public holiday.
The exact date of Hari Raya Puasa is determined by the sighting of the new moon, following the Islamic lunar calendar. In Singapore, the Islamic Religious Council (MUIS) announces the official date after moon-sighting. The holiday has been celebrated in Singapore since the early days of its history as a trading port, with the Malay community maintaining traditions passed down through generations.
As Singapore evolved into a modern city-state, Hari Raya Puasa retained its religious significance while also becoming a time for family reunions and community bonding. The government and various organizations often host events like 'open houses' to promote racial harmony, where people of all races are invited to join in the celebrations.
Customs & traditions
In Singapore, Muslims begin Hari Raya Puasa with a special morning prayer at the mosque, dressed in traditional attire such as the baju kurung or baju melayu. After prayers, they visit the graves of loved ones to pay respects. The rest of the day is spent visiting family and friends, seeking forgiveness, and giving gifts, especially to children.
Food plays a central role in the celebrations. Traditional dishes include ketupat (rice cakes wrapped in palm leaves), rendang (spicy beef or chicken slow-cooked in coconut milk), lemang (glutinous rice cooked in bamboo), and various kuih (traditional cakes). Open houses are common, where Muslim families host relatives, neighbors, and even strangers, reflecting the spirit of generosity.
Children receive 'duit raya' – green packets containing money as a symbol of blessing. Homes are decorated with fairy lights and intricate ketupat-shaped ornaments. The festive atmosphere extends beyond Muslim homes, as supermarkets and malls set up special Hari Raya sections, and non-Muslim colleagues and friends are often invited to join in the celebrations, fostering multicultural harmony.
Why it is celebrated
Hari Raya Puasa is celebrated as a day of victory after a month of fasting, self-discipline, and spiritual reflection during Ramadan. It symbolizes purification, renewal, and gratitude to Allah. The holiday reinforces the values of compassion, charity, and community, as Muslims are encouraged to give zakat (obligatory alms) and help the less fortunate.
In Singapore's multiracial and multireligious society, Hari Raya Puasa also serves as a means of cultural exchange and understanding. It is a time when Singaporeans of all backgrounds come together to celebrate unity in diversity, strengthening social cohesion. For the Malay-Muslim community, it is a cherished occasion to reaffirm their identity and heritage while sharing their traditions with the wider nation.