Day off for Hari Raya Puasa in Australia

Hari Raya Puasa, also known as Eid al-Fitr, marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is a significant religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide. In Australia, while Hari Raya Puasa is not a nationwide public holiday, certain areas with significant Muslim populations may observe local arrangements to accommodate celebrations.

History and Traditions

• Historical Significance: The festival commemorates the completion of Ramadan, during which Muslims fast from dawn to dusk and engage in extra prayers and charitable activities.
• Cultural Practices: It begins with the sighting of the new moon, and traditionally, it starts with special prayers at mosques followed by visits to family and friends for feasting.
• Greeting: The common greeting during this time is "Selamat Hari Raya" or "Eid Mubarak," which means "Blessed Eid."

Activities on Hari Raya Puasa

• Prayers: Many Muslims attend special communal prayers held in open fields or at local mosques on the morning of Eid.
• Feasting: After a month of fasting, indulging in various foods is a key part of the celebration. Families and friends come together to share meals often including dishes like rendang, ketupat, or sweets like kuih.
• Charity: Giving to charity (Zakat al-Fitr) is an important aspect of Eid al-Fitr; it ensures that even the less fortunate can celebrate the day.
• Dress: Wearing new clothes is customary to signify renewal for Eid.

In Australia's multicultural society, while businesses typically operate as usual since it's not a public holiday for all, accommodations may be made by employers for Muslim employees to take time off. Celebrations are generally community-oriented involving local events organized by Islamic organizations and cultural societies.