Selamat Hari Raya

In Malaysia, Hari Raya marks the end of fasting in the Muslim month of Ramadan. The end of Ramadan is a big occasion, much like Christmas or Easter in Australia, with a two public holidays given to mark the occasion (although sometimes local Malays are known to take a longer break)

Amongst the fireworks and other general celebrations which occur during this time, I was most interested by the “open house” concept. During Hari Raya, local Malay’s open up the doors to their houses and invite their friends an relatives to come and join in a feast. A large variety of local foods and cakes are offered at these open houses.

Over two days, I was lucky enough to attend six open houses (too much free food!). On the first day I was invited to visit the houses of three staff members of the university I attend. All were very friendly, and by visiting the houses of locals I was given a unique opportunity to experience what life is really like for the people in Malaysia.

On the second day I went with a group of international students to the open house of the Governor of Sarawak. The open house was held at his residence, the Astana, which is a palace located on bank of the Sarawak River. The house is open to the public, but only a few are allowed inside to meet the governor. Obviously being a group of international students, we were luckily chosen to enter the palace and meet with the governor. After shaking the Governor’s hand, and saying "Selamat Hari Raya" (which is the custom), we feasted on the large variety of food which was available, especially enjoying the local layer cakes.

When inside, we were interviewed and photographed by the local media. Apparently we were going to be on TV (although I never saw the news report). However, the next day while I was at an Indian restaurant, the owner of the restaurant recognised me from my picture in the newspaper. Looks like I’m turning into a minor Malaysian celebrity.