LABUAN: The ongoing conflict and the sounds of repeated explosions have disrupted this year’s Hari Raya festive plans for a Malaysian family in Bahrain.
Muhamad Nizam Shaidon, 43, who has lived and worked in Bahrain for nearly 11 years, said the conflict has changed how his family observed Ramadan and prepared for Hari Raya.
“We are constantly monitoring official updates to ensure our safety.
“The atmosphere of Ramadan and Hari Raya this year is very different,” he told Bernama when contacted yesterday.
Muhamad Nizam said that besides hearing loud explosions in several locations and strategic facilities, there were also a drone strike on a desalination plant, a major fire at a fuel storage facility in Muharraq and damage in nearby residential areas.
“The explosions are clearly audible from where we are staying, sometimes preceded by sounds resembling drones,” he said, adding that several incoming strikes were intercepted by the Bahrain Defence Force.
Despite the incidents, he said authorities have assured that essential supplies remain stable and the overall situation is under control, with daily activities continuing as usual.
“Malls are open, people still go out for Aidilfitri preparations and mosques remain open with precautionary measures.”
Muhamad Nizam, his wife Norhani Aida Mohd Nor, 42, and their two daughters, aged 10 and 13, have temporarily relocated to a hotel arranged by his employer, while he continues working remotely.
“The children remain indoors with online schooling and we minimise movement,” he said, urging Malaysians to rely on verified information and avoid spreading unconfirmed reports that could cause unnecessary concern.
Due to the escalating tensions, he said his family decided to remain in Bahrain this year instead of returning to his home in Taman Melawati, Kuala Lumpur for Aidilfitri.
“Usually we return home for Hari Raya but this year we chose not to travel as the situation remains uncertain.
“We made no Raya preparations. Our priority now is safety and staying alert.”
He acknowledged that being away from home during such uncertain times is emotionally challenging but support from friends, including fellow Malaysians, has helped ease the situation.
“We stay in close contact with our families in Malaysia to reassure them that we are safe.”
To keep the festive spirit alive, Muhamad Nizam said his family draw support from Malaysian friends who are busy making biskut raya as a reminder of home.
Religious authorities in Bahrain, Qatar, United Arab Emirates and Kuwait announced the start of Aidilfitri yesterday.
