Merdeka Raya 2011/Syawal 1432

In the last few years, Hari Raya in Malaysia has been having sort of double celebration. In 2003, we had the Kongsi-Raya. In 2005, it was the Deepa-Raya. Though a lot of criticism has been written over the years about this sort of double celebration which might deviate the true meaning of the Aidil Fitri celebrations for the muslims, I on the other hand always believed that a true muslim will know the deeper aspect of Aidil Fitri celebration and not be concern with whatever else that falls on the same day. It is after all a celebration of overcoming your triumph over hardship. And what better way then to celebrate it openly with your fellow men, muslim or non muslim, family or friends. In Malaysia, holding on to peace and harmony would be easier if we share whatever celebration we hold dearly individually together. So I always think that it helps us as Malaysians to have our celebration together, be it Kongsi-Raya or Deepa-Raya.

This year it is no different. Hari Raya falls on the same day as our Merdeka day. Now all Malaysians have reason to celebrate this holiday together....