Parents can introduce the timeless joy of sending Hari Raya greeting cards to children by encouraging them to create personalised messages and designs, fostering creativity and meaningful connections. Photo: The Star/Filepic
More than two decades ago, festive celebrations were incomplete without the cherished tradition of sending greeting cards to family, relatives, friends, colleagues and business associates.
Youngsters, in particular, would eagerly await the arrival of the postman bearing cards from their friends and loved ones, and, sometimes, even local celebrities. In the run-up to Hari Raya Aidilfitri, it was quite common for pop culture fans to send Hari Raya cards to their favourite singers or film stars, who would reciprocate their gesture.
On the first day of Syawal, they would decorate their living rooms by hanging up the colourful cards.
The traditional paper cards have long been replaced by electronic cards, delivered virtually through platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, TikTok or Instagram.
Nevertheless, a check on e-commerce platforms showed that there were vendors selling Raya-themed paper greeting cards. However, the cards sold were mostly miniature versions and based on buyer reviews, these greeting cards were used as decorations during Hari Raya.
Reviving tradition
Some people, especially the older generation, still prefer sending physical greeting cards.
In fact, according to media reports, it is also the choice of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim King of Malaysia.In a recent post on His Majesty’s official Facebook account, Sultan Ibrahim is seen signing 200 greeting cards.
"The King greatly enjoys sending traditional Aidilfitri greeting cards because it strengthens the relationship between the palace and the people regardless of religion and race,” according to the post.
Meanwhile, Pos Malaysia Bhd is striving to revive the tradition of sending paper greeting cards.
"Sending greeting cards during (festive) celebrations is a cultural tradition that needs to be revitalised, especially among children," said Fiona Liao, Pos Malaysia group chief marketing and communications officer.
Although digital cards also convey the sender’s message, she added physical cards hold more significance mainly because of the effort put in to buy the card, write a message and mail it.
"Even though technology has changed the way people communicate, the exchange of greeting cards is not only meaningful, but deeply appreciated as well. It also strengthens the bonds of a community.
"Despite the convenience that technology offers, there’s nothing more joyful than receiving a greeting card from loved ones,” she added.
To commemorate this year’s Hari Raya celebrations, Pos Malaysia has issued a special "Setem Ku” stamp collection. – Bernama
