Hari Raya Aidilfitri or Eid al-Fitr is the biggest celebration observed by Muslims in Malaysia.
It is marked by various decorations seen in homes, shops, shopping complexes, and along the streets since Ramadan.
Let’s examine the history of Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2025 and why it’s so important and special to Malaysians!
All You Need to Know about Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2025!
1. What is Hari Raya Aidilfitri?
Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a time of forgiveness and celebration.
Although Malaysians and Muslims far and wide know about this festive holiday season, the history of Aidilfitri celebrations predates back since the dawn of the Islamic age.
It marks the end of the Muslims’ Ramadan calendar and signals the beginning of Syawal, involving happy feasting celebrations of traditional food and the usual greeting of ‘Selamat Hari Raya!’
2. But before that… When is Hari Raya 2025?
Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2025 will commence on 31st March, Monday in Malaysia. This day also signals a public holiday for all Malaysians.
The Date of Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2025:
Here’s a look at the observed date for the celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri in 2025.
| Year | Day | Date | Holiday | Location | Holiday Type |
| 2025 | Monday | 31st March | Hari Raya Aidilfitri | All States | Federal Public Holiday |
| 2025 | Tuesday | 1st April | Hari Raya Aidilfitri | All States | Federal Public Holiday |
History of Hari Raya Aidilfitri
Okay, great. Now that we’ve sorted that out, let’s have a look at the history of Hari Raya.
As previously stated, Hari Raya Aidilfitri signals the beginning of Syawal and the end of Ramadan. Syawal is the 10th month of the Islamic calendar and is a month of celebration.
Where Ramadan is a month of empathy and worship, Syawal is where celebrations are held – after a month of fasting.
It is a period of forgiveness, reunion, and celebration among family and friends. In Malaysia, a different name to Hari Raya Aidilfitri is Hari Raya Puasa, meaning the celebration after fasting.
Historically, Hari Raya Aidilfitri can be traced back to the age of Prophet Muhammad, beginning shortly after he migrated to Mecca, where Islam was strongly established.
Hence, since that period, the festival Hari Raya Aidilfitri has been celebrated in grandeur.
How Do We Celebrate Hari Raya?
Hari Raya is a festive season filled with joy, reunion, and, most importantly, FOOD! The common celebration of Hari Raya comprises many traditions and activities, such as…
1. Donning Traditional Clothes for Added Flair
An average day during Raya is seeing people walking around in their neat Baju Melayu and Baju Kurung.
It’s a cultural celebration as much as it is a religious celebration, and we’re here for it!
2. Having Traditional Kuih and Cuisine for Raya
During this festive season, there are a variety of Kuih to choose from. As we’ve said previously, the Raya celebrations are filled with food!
Kuih is a type of dessert food commonly found around Southeast Asia, and there are so many types to choose from! From Nestum cornflakes to Semperit.
3. Adorning Households with Hari Raya Decorations
Bring out the lights and the Pelita—it’s time for Raya decorations. Lights are essential for creating atmosphere and mood during this season.
Aside from the lighting, the ribbon ketupat is one element in its decorations that really exudes the feel of Raya.
Other examples of Raya decoration can be religious or ethnic-themed wall decorations that reflect the Islamic heritage this holiday is built upon.
4. Listening to classic Raya tunes!
Every Malaysian knows the lyrics to classics like Suasana Hari Raya and Dendang Perantau, how could they not? They’re a staple song during this festive season.
These songs are what makes Raya, Raya! They exude a certain holiday charm, and are very nice to sing along to. Raya wouldn’t be Raya without these classic songs!
5. Meeting Family and Friends
Another staple to the holiday are open houses. After all, Hari Raya Aidilfitri signals a time of celebration amid good food and good friends.
It is a time when sons and daughters seek forgiveness from one another and towards their parents.
6. Bunga Api All Day Everyday
Bunga Api and shooting off fireworks into the sky are examples of showcasing the Hari Raya spirit! It’s a fun activity, strengthened by quality time spent with loved ones.
That’s it for Hari Raya!
Hari Raya is a celebration for Muslims after they have completed a month of fasting during Ramadan. It’s the time to visit your family and eat our traditional food while catching up with them and seeking forgiveness.
At IQI we wish you a Selamat Hari Raya!
May this Hari Raya bring you closer to your loved ones and fill your home with laughter and joy. Selamat Hari Raya!
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Continue reading:
1. Raya Open House: The Do’s, the Don’ts and the Downright Ugly
2. Jom Buka Puasa! Here are 6 Trendy Must-Visit Bazaar Ramadhan in KL and Selangor
3. Celebrate Raya in Style! 10 Destinations to Visit in Malaysia for Raya Holidays
