Phnom Penh: Wednesday, 5th of June 2019 and today is the start of the month of Syawal and in conjunction with the celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri or Eid Mubarak, the Embassy of Malaysia in Phnom Penh hosted an “Aidilfitri 2019” Open House at Dewan Malaysia – the hall in the Embassy on 1 Syawal. The Open House was attended by about 200 Malaysians residing in Phnom Penh and some Cambodian dignitaries and high ranking government officials as well as representatives of the diplomatic corps. Guests were treated with sumptuous Hari Raya spread of ketupat (rice-wrapped in coconut leaves), rending (A dry spicy beef and chicken dish), nasi beriani (a wholesome rice-based dish prepared with spices), satay and so on.
Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a major occasion in the Islamic calendar, celebrated by all Muslims around the world. It marks the end of Ramadan – a fasting month. During Ramadan, all Muslims must fast during daylight hours for at least 30 days. Because Islam uses the lunar cycle to determine important days, Ramadan and Syawal occur in different months in the Gregorian calendar each year.
During the month of Syawal, many Muslims open doors of their homes to welcome all, bringing together people irrespective of creed, culture and position to participate in the rejoicing. The Embassy’s open house brought people together regardless of their religion, position or background to strengthen unity and promote racial integration as well as understanding about the festival and culture.
Photo by: Nora Tuy
