KUCHING: With Hari Raya Aidilfitri just around the corner, Malaysians are preparing to celebrate with a mix of joy, reflection, and financial mindfulness.
While some families opt for grand festivities, many are embracing a more modest approach, focusing on the true essence of the celebration, namely family, tradition, and togetherness.
For many, this year’s Aidilfitri is about cherishing time with loved ones rather than being involved in extravagant spending.
Shafiq Halek, a 27-year-old assistant site engineer, shared that his family is celebrating modestly due to his grandfather’s recent health issues.
“My grandfather suffered a stroke just before Ramadan, so we are keeping things simple this year,” he explained.
Despite the toned-down celebration, he remains committed to preserving the spirit of Aidilfitri’s tradition in his family.
“Every year, we make it compulsory to return to our hometown and experience the traditional kampung atmosphere.
“It is something I never want to change,” said Shafiq.
Similarly, Nur Munirah, 25, pointed out that her family values quality time together, especially since it is rare for everyone to gather.
Dayang Syahira, 26, has another reason for a quieter Aidilfitri as she is preparing for the birth of her first child.
“This year, my family is celebrating in a simple way, but that doesn’t mean it will be any less special,” she said.
Some families are making slight adjustments to their usual traditions.
Munirah’s family, for example, has decided to hire someone to cook their Aidilfitri feast since her grandmother is no longer able to.
Meanwhile, Dayang is experiencing her first Aidilfitri with her husband, making the occasion extra special.
Siti Aida, 24, noted that while her family’s traditions remain largely the same, they plan to arrive in their hometown earlier than usual.
“We’re always the late ones,” she joked.
Financially, many are finding creative ways to celebrate without overspending.
Thrifting has become a popular trend, especially for Raya outfits.
Siti, a thrifting enthusiast, proudly shared that she bought two second-hand baju kurung for just RM10.
Munirah also took advantage of online discounts, purchasing her outfits from TikTok Shop to save money.
Shafiq, on the other hand, prefers to buy two new pairs of Aidilfitri clothes each year while donating his older ones to those in need.
“It is a way of giving back,” he said.
He also acknowledges that fashion trends play a role in rising costs.
“Every year, there’s always a new design or brand of Baju Melayu that catches our eyes, and sometimes, we tend to splurge.
“And most of the time, it is our wants, not our needs,” he added.
For cookies and festive treats, the choice between homemade and store-bought depends on each family’s circumstances.
While making them at home is often cheaper, time constraints and health issues have led many to opt for store-bought options.
“If you want a variety of Aidilfitri cookies and Kek Lapis, buying in sets can be more cost-effecive,” Siti suggested.
Munirah also reminisced about her late mother, who used to bake and sell Aidilfitri cakes, including the ever-popular Kek Lapis Harimau.
Meanwhile, Dayang decided to buy her cookies this year instead of making them due to time constraints.
“Usually, homemade is more budget-friendly, but with my condition right now, buying is the best option,” she said.
With inflation affecting prices, many families are feeling the financial strain.
To cop, families are cooking more at home, shopping during sales, and prioritising essential purchases.
Despite these challenges, the spirit of Aidilfitri remains strong.
For Siti, she tries to view it on the bright side.
“We were taught about moderation during Ramadan, so why not apply the same principle during Aidilfitri?” she added.
Similarly, Dayang advised others to focus on what truly matters.
“Celebrate within your means and do not let your desires lead to overspending,” she said.
Shafiq also offered practical advice.
“With everything available at our fingertips now, it’s easy to get carried away with ‘buy now, pay later’ options, but it is important to remember our financial limits.
“Saving is always better than excessive spending,” Shafiq added.
At its core, Aidilfitri is about love, gratitude, and togetherness.
As Munirah wisely put it, “Life is not about seeking validation from others, it is about spending meaningful time with family and friends.”
