JOHOR BARU: While Muslims will come together to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri in the next few days, a select few will be trading the joy and warmth of the occasion to ensure that traffic flows smoothly and homes and businesses are safe.
Besides the thousands of law enforcement personnel who will be on duty, there are others who will ensure that the rubbish is cleared and the roads are swept.
Instead of being sad over the family gatherings they will miss, these individuals see their work as a meaningful responsibility that is embraced with dedication and purpose.
For Mohd Hafiz Idris, 51, who drives a garbage truck, working during Aidilfitri is a noble act of service that aligns with religious teachings that emphasise cleanliness and order.
The father of three, who has been with the Solid Waste Unit at SWM Environment’s Johor Baru branch for the past two years, takes pride in his responsibilities.
“On the first day of Syawal, my team and I from the Solid Waste Unit will collect solid waste from 500 premises in the Kampung Melayu Majidee area, including from public markets,” he told Bernama.
“Coincidentally, I am a native and resident of Kampung Melayu Majidee. So my family, especially my wife, fully understands and supports my duties, which makes everything easier.”
Recalling the first time he worked on the first day of Hari Raya last year, Mohd Hafiz said it was memorable as residents came out to offer him and his team cookies, drinks and even duit Raya.
“It was heartwarming to see how our efforts were valued. These small gestures made the experience even more meaningful,” said Mohd Hafiz, who previously worked as a bus driver for nine years.
Also sharing her experience was Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) programme producer and broadcast journalist, Norazizah Drahman, 51, who finds great satisfaction in delivering news and information to the community, even during Hari Raya.
Although she does feel sad that she cannot return to her hometown of Kampung Bunga Rampai, Batu Kitang in Kuching, Sarawak, Norazizah is committed to giving her best while on duty during Hari Raya.
“This year, it’s my turn to be on duty. Of course, there’s a sense of sadness because we want to celebrate with our family, siblings, and relatives back home,” she said.
“My mother passed away last year, so the challenge is that my siblings and children are in Sarawak, but I have to prioritise my duties here.”
Norazizah, who stays connected with her family via video calls, will go out on the morning of the first day of Hari Raya to report on how residents are celebrating.
“Later, I will be gathering with other Muslim colleagues who are also on duty. The festive spirit is still there,” said the mother of eight, who has served at RTM for 32 years.
“I believe that most media personnel on duty during this special day still feel the festive spirit, even if they are away from their families and hometowns. As reporters, we are always prepared, regardless of the time, to deliver the news.”
