JOHOR BARU: This year, several local families are embracing a quieter kind of joy.
By choosing moderation over big festive splurges, they’re finding that a simpler Hari Raya is every bit as meaningful.
Communications executive Muhammad Ariff Mohamad Nizam, 34, said he stopped buying new clothes for Hari Raya last year simply because he does not see them as a necessity.
“I still have my baju Raya from previous years, which I only wear for special occasions.
“They are all still in good condition, so I don’t see the point of buying new ones when I already have perfectly good options at home.
“I think there is no need to spend too much to have a meaningful celebration. Just the basics should be enough,” he said in an interview.
Muhammad Ariff, who will be celebrating Hari Raya in Pontian with his parents and siblings, said his family had always been modest in their celebrations.
“We sometimes spend a little extra on our home because a house is a necessity at all times, not just during festive seasons. Aside from spending a little on food, we do not allocate much for other expenses.
“Perhaps those who are married and have children may want to spend more on their family, but I can do away with a modest celebration since I am single.”
Also choosing to avoid overspending was trader Wan Noraini Wan Mohamed.
The 53-year-old expressed her concerns about potential economic challenges facing the country due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
“I usually do my preparations for Hari Raya before Ramadan, as I am often too busy during the fasting month since I operate a stall at a Ramadan bazaar.
“As such, I bought most of the things for Hari Raya earlier, including Baju Raya for myself and my mother,” she said.
The single mother said despite efforts to cut costs, she wants to make sure her family, including her two grandchildren, can enjoy a delightful Hari Raya.
