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Hari Raya Haji, also known as Eid al-Adha or the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the two significant Islamic holidays celebrated worldwide. In Malaysia, a predominantly Muslim country, it is a public holiday and holds great cultural and religious significance.
The festival commemorates the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Isma'il (Ishmael) as an act of obedience to God's command. However, before the sacrifice could take place, God provided a ram to sacrifice instead. To honor this event, Muslims around the world perform Qurban, where livestock such as sheep, goats, cows or camels are sacrificed.
Prayer: The day begins with Muslims performing special prayers known as Solat Sunat Aidiladha at mosques or open fields.
Sacrifice: Following prayers, those who can afford it participate in Qurban by slaughtering an animal in a humane way. In Malaysia, this is often organized by mosques or community groups.
Distribution of Meat: The meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three parts: one part for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor and needy.
Feasting: Families gather to share meals prepared from the sacrificed meat. Traditional dishes like rendang and ketupat may be served.
Charity: Giving to those less fortunate is emphasized during Hari Raya Haji. Besides sharing meat with them, people also donate money or food.
Many Malaysians take advantage of the public holiday to spend time with family members.
It's common for people to wear traditional Malay clothing such as baju kurung and baju Melayu.
Visits are made to gravesites of departed loved ones to clean the area and pray for their souls.
While Hari Raya Haji is an Islamic holiday, it reflects broader values such as selflessness, charity, and communal spirit within Malaysian society.