7 Must-Know Preparations for the Perfect Ramadan and Raya Celebration in Malaysia
As the holy month of Ramadan draws near, Muslims everywhere make the necessary preparations for this sacred fasting period. From there, it won’t be long before Hari Raya comes around and families begin their raya preparation to usher in this joyous celebration. While the festivities are a time for togetherness and fun, there’s a lot that goes into preparing for Ramadan and Raya that many may not be aware of. At Photobook Malaysia, we know what it’s like to prepare for such a grand celebration, that’s why we’re here to help. With a wide selection of home decor, essentials, and gifts, there’s plenty to choose from as everyone anticipates these special occasions. So, whether it’s preparing for Ramadan, Raya, or both, we’re breaking down some of the most essential preparation details you need to know to have a fabulous celebration ahead.
1. Fasting During the Month of Ramadan
The appearance of the new moon is when the month of Ramadan starts. From sunrise to sunset, Muslims observe fasts by not consuming any food or water. During this fasting period, there will be a host of Ramadan bazaars, Ramadan food festivals, and iftar (when the fast ends) buffets in preparation for breaking fast together. It’s during this time that consuming dates or more commonly known as kurma is a popular way to break one’s fast. While there are many dates to choose from, none is more popular than Yusuf Taiyoob — made popular by the famous radio ad featuring a trademark whisper back in 2011. While fasting is a physical and mental challenge, when it’s time for iftar, gathering around the table with loved ones makes the experience a memorable one. While breaking fast, that’s when everyone would gather food and drinks for sharing. Offer your drinks in a stylish tumbler, bottle or personalised coaster that’s Ramadan-themed. You can create your own designs that will add a touch of flair during the fasting month.
2. Getting the Perfect Raya Outfit
Once Ramadan is over, it’s time to look into the details of having the ultimate Raya celebration. Starting with outfits — typically known as baju raya (Raya clothing). Getting the perfect Raya OOTD and family photo is a must-do in anticipation of Raya, so getting the perfect baju melayu and baju kurung is a non-negotiable! Most families pick a specific colour and have everyone’s outfits made in that matching colour for the ‘official’ photo op. And there’s no better way to preserve those fabulous Raya memories than with a collection of photo prints and insta prints. Each print can be shared with family and friends offering well wishes or just as keepsakes for years to come. Either way, everyone will be looking their very best in those shots!
3. Spring Cleaning the House
Creating a comfortable environment at home is part of the Raya preparation. From wiping surfaces to sweeping dusty corners, giving your home a fresh look in time for the Raya celebration isn’t an option. Because of the nature of Hari Raya, there will be guests at home and playing host when your home isn’t at its best wouldn’t be a good feeling. Like tackling any big task, it’s a good idea to start early and small so you can have enough time to clean and declutter each space. Typically, the spring cleaning starts about a week before Hari Raya. Here’s a pro tip: clean your bathroom last so you can wash the dirty rags (used for cleaning the other rooms) without making it dirty again. And of course, take a well-deserved bath!
4. Making DIY Raya Decorations
Now, it’s time to give your home a makeover. You could always buy raya decorations or raya hampers from the mall, but what would that say about your creativity? Not much, we’re guessing! Make decorations more personal this year. In fact, these days, there are many DIY versions of hiasan hari raya (raya decorations). While there are paper decorations that set the Raya mood, top it all off with Raya-themed place mats on the dining table, wall stickers of Raya elements and Islamic art on photo pillows! Adding light touches of festive decorations will make your home come alive and truly embody the spirit of Raya.
5. Baking Raya Cookies & Delicacies
How about the food, you ask? Well, no Raya celebration is complete without a feast of traditional eats or jamuan raya consisting of ketupat, rendang, biskut raya (Raya cookies), and lemang. Imagine having these laid out on the table as the aromatic scent fills the air — simply divine! As part of Malaysian culture, having an open house or rumah terbuka is a common affair. Inviting friends and family over to eat and be in each other’s company is a great way to enjoy Hari Raya. While everything feels like a wonderful celebration, you can’t forget the importance of aesthetics at the dinner table. Pick out your favourite Raya designs and have them printed on kitchen essentials such as a serving tray or photo mugs with the help of Photobook Malaysia. That way, your kitchen essentials will be as gorgeous as they are functional!
6. Preparing Raya Cards & Duit Raya List
Like most festive celebrations in Malaysia, greetings and Hari Raya wishes matter a lot. Having a suitable kad raya (Raya greeting card) with the appropriate Hari Raya greetings plays a role in strengthening bonds between friends and family. Not forgetting the practice of duit raya (Raya money) — a tradition rooted in offering blessings to another, typically from an elder person to a younger one. If you’re wondering if you can get all of these Raya essentials under one roof, you can! From personalised Raya greeting cards to Raya money envelopes, you can customise your wishes and use your favourite photos as the main design. That way, you can showcase your creativity while showing you truly care with essentials that have a personal touch. As for relatives who are abroad, include your personalised message through a thoughtful e-Photobook that makes sharing photos fun through a digital book. With your greeting cards and money envelopes sorted, you and your family will be all set for a remarkable Raya!
7. Sharing Your Ramadan & Raya Photos
Now that your house is clean, the table is set, and greeting cards are sorted, it’s time for gambar hari Raya (hari Raya photos)! Flash that 100-watt smile in your matching baju raya because it’s about to end up in the hands of your friends and family. And the best way to do that is through photobooks where your photos take centre stage. If you’re wondering what else you could do with your hari raya photos, how about turning them into one-of-a-kind home decor with canvas prints, photo tiles, or framed prints? They’re vibrant and incredibly versatile, a wonderful focal point in every space. But before that, we know those photos will end up on social media with the hashtag #RayaOOTD on your stories or feed. After all, every good moment deserves to be shared with the world.
Having the Perfect Raya Experience
From Ramadan to Raya, having your preparation can seem like an overwhelming task. It’s always worth it to see the joy on everyone’s faces captured in photobooks or framed prints. Think about it this way, every year, celebrating Raya is a timeless memory that no amount of money can buy. And at Photobook Malaysia, we’re passionate about sharing memories between you and the people you love. With all the tips provided for the perfect Ramadan and Raya, reach out to us if you’re ready for a Raya to remember. Finally, from our family at Photobook to yours — Selamat Hari Raya, Maaf Zahir dan Batin.