Ramadhan, Syawal & Me

Me & my brother Apan posed for Hari Raya 1980. Apan with his new traditional Malay costume. 

For Muslims, the month of Ramadhan is the month of spiritual reflection, improvement and increased devotion and worship. We are obligated to fast from dawn until sunset and to refrain from consuming food and drinks, smoking and sexual relations; and in some interpretations from swearing for 30 days. It sounded difficult but not at all when we devoted & sincerely to fulfill the obligation. I started fasting as early as 4 years old & by 6 years old I was able to complete my 30 days of fasting. It was a big victory for me. Yes, it was not easy for a child to carry out her obligation while others at her same age were still enjoying their ice-cream session & full of energy having fun at the playground. But it all paid out when Syawal month emerged after Ramadhan's ended. Eid Mubarak or in Malaysia we call it Hari Raya celebration. It's the month of family gathering, forgiveness, good food and children's favorite session ~ gift from the elderly in the form of money in the packet. Children will visit their relative's houses and neighborhood to collect packets of money throughout the Syawal month. It was a memorable & exciting month for the children...and me too!!! 

Mya Elisha & Arif Aamil Hamka posed for Hari Raya 2012...Apan's children

As time flies, my brother Apan got married with 2 beautiful children, Mya Elisha & Arif Aamil Hamka. They will now taking over the joyfulness of Syawal month by collecting that little packets during Hari Raya. Though they are too small to understand the importance of fasting but the spirit of celebrating Hari Raya has already in their heart as early as one year old. New clothes to wear in the morning of Syawal, good food like chicken rendang, packed rice, glutinous rice (lemang), peanut sauce & packets of money are the common for Hari Raya celebration. Though Syawal month is almost over, we appreciate it by visiting family & friends no matter near or far to build up the bonding closer each year....Happy Eid Mubarak to all dear Muslim  friends from all over the world!!!