Hari Raya Puasa Description
Also known as Eid al-Fitr, this marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, and is one of the most significant celebrations for Singapore's Malay-Muslim community. On the morning, Muslims attend special congregational prayers at mosques, with the largest gatherings at Masjid Sultan in Kampong Glam and Masjid Al-Ansar. Dressed in new traditional clothing — baju kurung for women, baju Melayu for men — families exchange greetings of 'Selamat Hari Raya' and seek forgiveness (bermaaf-maafan). The Geylang Serai district is the epicenter of celebrations, with its famous Hari Raya bazaar offering festive foods, traditional outfits, and decorative lights that transform the neighborhood into a glittering night market for weeks. Government offices, banks, and most businesses close. The open house tradition sees Malay families welcoming visitors of all ethnicities to enjoy ketupat (rice cakes), rendang, lontong, and a vast array of kuih (traditional sweets). Children receive duit raya (green packets of money), and the two-day holiday embodies the spirit of community, forgiveness, and shared joy that defines the Muslim festival season in Singapore.
