With Ramadan coming to an end, all the attention now turns to Hari Raya and all the preparation it takes. From buying this year’s outfit to getting ingredients for our favourite Raya dishes and cleaning up and decorating the home in preparation for hosting family and friends.
However, did you know that there are some ground rules every Malaysian should know when visiting the houses of others for Raya? From the intricacies of attire to visiting etiquette, here are some essential dos and don'ts of Hari Raya to help guide you.
Dressing for the occasion
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Raya is the time of year to dress up nicely and show off your special outfits for the year! However, do ensure that you keep things respectable and do not dress too sexily or too casually, as this may be frowned upon. We recommend modest or traditional clothing with nothing too revealing.
Additionally, avoid wearing heavy materials or high heels, as walking around in warm weather may make you flustered and uncomfortable.
Before going to open houses
Before you actually go for open houses, there are a few things you should prepare as a visitor. Although gifts are often not expected at Raya open houses, there’s no harm in bringing along some kuih muih or some biskut raya to share with the hosts.
You can also prepare some money packets to pass to the hosts' children or any other children at the house as a good gesture. The amount is ultimately up to you but we recommend keeping it small so you can prepare more money packets!
Attending open houses
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Although Raya open houses are generally free and welcoming throughout the day, you should be mindful and understand when to visit. Typically, families spend time together in the morning during the first day of Hari Raya, so try not to visit so early!
Before entering the house, always greet and salam the host or hostess and wish everyone a Selamat Hari Raya. Make sure you have conversations with the hosts and other guests and break out of your shell and exchange words with the people around you.
Digging in
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With all of the amount of food typically being served at open houses, do avoid overeating, especially if you plan to go to several open houses in a day.
Minimise your food intake, as this will allow you to have a little something at each house you visit. However, try not to reject food being served to you, as this could be seen as rude or disrespectful.
After you finish digging in, do help to clean up any dirty dishes or cups and not just leave them on the table!
On to the next
Once you’re done eating, feel free to engage in conversations with the hosts and other guests but do remember not to overstay your welcome. If you are with a group, two to three hours is perfectly fine. But, if you and your family are invited for a close get-together, stay for only three or four hours because everyone has places to go during Hari Raya.
With all that said, Selamat Hari Raya to everyone and do enjoy all of the festivities and food!
Featured Image Credit: Shopee Singapore, Envato Elements