Eid Al Fitr Holiday in Brunei

Eid Al Fitr, known as Hari Raya Aidilfitri in Brunei, is one of the most significant religious celebrations for Muslims in the country. It marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.

History and Traditions

The festival's origin traces back to the time of Prophet Muhammad, who established Eid Al Fitr as a day of feasting and gratitude after completing a month of fasting. In Brunei, traditional practices include:

• Takbir: The recitation of the Takbir echoes from mosques across the country.
• Prayer: The day begins with a special congregational prayer (Salat al-Eid) held in mosques and open areas.
• Zakat al-Fitr: Before the prayer, Muslims are required to give charity known as Zakat al-Fitr, ensuring that even the less fortunate can celebrate.

What People Do on This Day

On Eid Al Fitr, Bruneians engage in various activities that reflect joy and community spirit:

• Family Gatherings: Families dress up in new clothes, typically traditional Malay attire, and visit relatives to seek forgiveness and celebrate together.
• Feasting: Homes prepare lavish meals with special dishes such as ketupat (rice cakes), rendang (spicy meat dish), and various sweets.
• Open Houses: Known as "rumah terbuka," many families host open houses where friends, neighbors, and sometimes even tourists are welcomed to join in on the festivities.
• Royal Open House: The royal family usually holds an open house at Istana Nurul Iman palace which is attended by thousands of citizens.

Eid Al Fitr is a public holiday in Brunei; government offices and most businesses are closed as people take time to celebrate with their loved ones. The holiday promotes values like forgiveness, charity, and unity among Bruneians.