There are many
festivals and holidays observed in Malaysia. The diverse cultural
and racial mix is evident the variety of observances, of which a few are
listed below.
Hari
Raya Puasa (Aidilfitri) is a joyous and important Muslim holiday that is
celebrated throughout the Muslim world. It is the end of a month
month of fasting and each day is started with children asking their
parents forgiveness for anything they have done wrong, before they go to
prayers. It is a time for special food, visiting friends and
relatives and the children are given gifts of money.
Chinese
New Year is a very festive time for Malay Chinese and is observed on the
first day of the first moon on the Chinese calendar. The date of
this celebration will vary from year to year depending on when this time
falls on the lunar calendar and usually lasts for about 15 days.
Sometimes this event is in January, other times in February, since it
follows the lunar calendar, not the solar calendar. It is
celebrated with a traditional dinner on New Year's Eve and subsequently
continues with visits to family, friends and the honoring of the
elderly. Packets of money called ang pow are given away at
this time as well.
Wesak
Day, in May, is Buddha's Birthday and is considered to be the most
important day of the year for Buddhists. This day is celebrated
with prayers and incense at the temples with the main celebration being
a lantern procession at night.
The
birthday of the Yang di-Pertuang Agong, Supreme Head of State, is
celebrated on the first Saturday in June and is obeserved as a public
holiday. On this day, awards and titles are given by His Majesty
to those people who have set themselves apart from other Malays with
their service to Malaysia.
Independence
Day (now known as National Day) is August 31 and marks the time of
Malaysia's independence. It is observed with parades, exhibitions,
shows and free film admission for children. Those less fortunate
in Malaysia (the poor) are presented gifts of money and food.
Deepavali
is an important Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of good over
evil, particularly that of Lord Kirshna over a demon king
(mythological). It is observed with prayers in the morning,
followed with visits to friends and relatives with delicacies
served. In the evening, lanterns are lit.
Christmas is
celebrated by the Christians in Malaysia usually with the attendance of
a church service on Christmas Eve. There are also carolers
who sing at various places (children's homes, retirement homes, hotels,
etc) and bring Christmas joy. The exchange of gifts is practiced
as well in celebration of Christ's birth.
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