A group of women taking photos with fairy lights arranged in the shape of ‘wau’ at Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur.
The tradition of decorating homes and public spaces with vibrant lights for festive seasons has evolved over time.
For Hari Raya Aidilfitri, the pelita − traditionally made from bamboo or tin and lit with an oil wick − was once used to create a soft, warm glow.
Today, modern versions of the pelita are powered by electricity and come in a variety of cheery colours.
String lights and fairy lights are popular choices too.
Festive LED displays have become favourites, especially in malls, town squares and along main roads.
The lamp designs commonly feature Islamic calligraphy, geometric patterns or cultural symbols.
Among popular decorative motifs are the crescent, star and the ketupat, a rice cake that is a must-have during Hari Raya.
Gallery
Traditional oil lamp maker Mohamad Azmizan Abdul Ghani, 41 (left), dining with his wife and children next to bamboo lamps in Kampung Merchang, Marang, Terengganu. He sells these lamps at RM15 each. — Photos: Bernama
A giant crescent and star-shaped lamp lighting up 16-storey Flat Kampung Melayu Air Itam in George Town, Penang.
Retiree Zakariah Hamid, 63, using solar-powered lights to save costs and the planet as he decorates his house in Kampung Sri Langkas, Puchong in Selangor.
‘Ketupat’-shaped lamps line a street in Sungai Siput, Perak.
Festive lamps greet commuters at Kuala Lumpur Sentral Station. — AZLINA ABDULLAH/The Star
