International folks embrace celebrating Raya in Sarawak

KUCHING (March 2): Hari Raya Aidilfitri in Sarawak is always known as being different from any typical festive occasion elsewhere, in that it is a celebration of unity, culture and warm hospitality.

For many international residents here, such inclusive spirit allows them a unique way to experience the festivities.

“Even though I am from Turkmenistan, I really enjoy experiencing different cultures and traditions.

“Celebrating Hari Raya here makes me feel more connected with the local community, and it also helps me understand the Malaysian culture better,” said Bilal Myratjanov, a 22-year-old Information Technology student from Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus here.

Hailing from Balkanabat, the Turkmenian will be celebrating Aidilfitri here with his friends this year.

Adding on, Bilal said he could see the strong sense of unity among the diverse communities here, which made the celebration much more special.

“People visit one another in open house events, share traditional food and celebrate together no matter what their backgrounds are.

“The atmosphere is warm, welcoming and respectful.

“I also really like the traditional food, family gatherings and the beautiful decorations,” he said.

Aroma Lab co-founder and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) lecturer Ibrahim Abdul Rahman, 30, also treasured the spirit of inclusivity in the state.

“Here, the tradition of open house brings everyone together regardless of race or background.

“Friends and neighbours are welcomed with smiles, and invited to share a meal.

“You see Malays, Chinese, Iban, Bidayuh and many others celebrating side by side,” said Ibrahim, who was born in the Buner District of Pakistan, but was raised in Kuching.

“For someone who was not born here, but has built a family here, this inclusiveness makes you feel accepted and more at home.”

He also acknowledged the differences of Aidilfitri celebrations in Pakistan and Sarawak.

“In Pakistan, they don’t have the open-house style like here – the gatherings are mainly for families.

“In Sarawak, the openness and warmth extend beyond immediate relatives, which makes the celebration feel more communal and inviting,” he added.

Another Swinburne Sarawak international student, Juhair Fayze, 18, viewed Hari Raya here as ‘bringing both excitement and reflection’.

“Celebrating Hari Raya here as an international student will be a special and memorable experience for me.

“I enjoy the warm atmosphere, delicious food and the kindness of my friends.

“The open houses and multicultural celebrations also make me feel welcomed and included, even though I am far from my home country,” said the youth from Dhaka, Bangladesh.

However, he admitted to feeling the longing for home during this festive season.

“Yes, I am excited about celebrating the occasion with my friends here, but I deeply miss my family too.

“Hari Raya reminds me of the importance of togetherness.

“My family is far away, but the friendship and hospitality that I experience here help ease that feeling,” he said.