Wednesday, November 19, 2003

This is the last week of the month of Ramadan of the Hijrah [Islam] calendar and soon Moslem all over the world would be celebrating the end of fasting with a festival call the Aidil Fitri, it could be on the twenty fifth of November two zero three, but for Moslem this date is tentative until it is confirmed that there is a sighting of the new moon, once it is confirmed, then the day would be celebrated as the festival of Aidil Fitri..... and to celebrate it Moslem home would be preparing cakes, cookies and biscuit to be consumed on this auspicious day, where everyone are welcome to the house to enjoy the celebration...it is normal for Moslem in Malaysian to have an open house where Malaysian could visit friends and relative including those from other religion to the house to celebrate this festival together, the open house concept is unique to Malaysia for during this festive days anyone even without invitation could visit house to take part in the celebration of Aidil Fitri the Malaysian style......not only the ordinary folks have open houses, the national leaders all over the country do the same, this includes the Prime Minister and the state Chief Minister and leaders of Political parties.....Everyone including foreigner who happen to be in Malaysia at that time are welcome to these open houses held at major places, like the Prime minister's resident, major hotels and the like all over the country.....Those that went to these open house not only get to sample Malaysian food, but also would be able to me the Prime Minister in person or other dignitaries.....it is the Malaysian way of celebrating a national celebration.....this kind of celebration also happen during the Chinese New Year and the Deepavali and other ethnic festival....so in Malaysian if you happen to be at any of these festival, you are welcome to visit....as no invitation is necessary....all are welcome....it is our way of celebrating great festival day....the Malaysian open house has today became part of the Malaysian culture.....a great way to celebrate the festival together among all Malaysian all races and religions...in harmony in the great Asian tradition.......Well friends....if you happen to be in Malaysia at the time of this festival.....do make a visit to any home or the official open house, you are surely welcome.....do it and you would surely enjoy this unique celebration....and of course the foods which includes the special 'Rendang and Ketupat' and I am sure you would not forget this day and would cherish it all throughout your life.....it is the Malaysian way, a great people that love living and sharing....so come this Aidil Fitri.....Selamat Hari Raya my friends.....

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