Pelita-lit nights for festive vibes

Residents working hand-in-hand to set up and light oil lamps in Jerantut, Pahang, as part of ‘Pesta Pelita Raya’. — Photos: Bernama

THE warm glow of pelita (traditional oil lamps) has long been part of the festive charm of nights leading up to Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

A boy walking along a pier lit by the glow of oil lamps.

In Pahang, this tradition was brought to life on a grand scale through “Pesta Pelita Raya”, where some 55,000 oil lamps illuminated villages and communities across the state.

A participant carefully lighting a row of pelita, bringing the festive display in his village to life.

Organised by Tourism Pahang, the celebration, now in its second year, involved 11 districts and 19 homestay clusters.

Oil lamps, torches and traditional clothing bringing a nostalgic feel to Hari Raya Aidilfitri as 11 districts and 19 homestay clusters in Pahang take part in the grand ‘Pesta Pelita Raya’.

Throughout the event, communities came together to decorate their surroundings with intricate arrangements and imaginative structures.

Oil lamps, torches and traditional clothing bringing a nostalgic feel to Hari Raya Aidilfitri as 11 districts and 19 homestay clusters in Pahang take part in the grand ‘Pesta Pelita Raya’.

Activities such as pelita- making contests and cultural performances added to the lively atmosphere, drawing villagers and visitors eager to experience the uniqueness of Pahang’s festive traditions.

Creativity on display at every turn across Pahang with pelita made from bottles.

Creative ingenuity was evident in the use of everyday materials like coconut shells, kettles, tins and bottles.

Creativity on display at every turn across Pahang with pelita made from coconut shells.

Villages lit up by rows of flickering lamps, paired with participants dressed in traditional Malay attire, offered a nostalgic feel to the festive experience.

Creativity on display at every turn across Pahang with pelita made from even kettles.

The event also highlighted the potential of pelita traditions as a seasonal tourism attraction, inviting visitors to experience the beauty and heritage of Aidilfitri in Pahang.