KUALA LUMPUR: As Hari Raya Aidilfitri is observed across Malaysia, many Muslim foreigners celebrating far from home – including those from countries affected by tensions in the Middle East – are turning to familiar food and traditions to stay connected with loved ones.
In the capital, some were seen strolling through Bukit Bintang in festive attire, snapping photos and soaking in the atmosphere, while others gathered at the National Mosque after prayers on Saturday.
For 23-year-old Iraqi student Sana Al Qaysy, the celebration this year is bittersweet.
“I dearly miss my family as I’m alone here. They live in Doha and I usually visit during the holidays, but with the conflict, I can’t see them this year,” she said, adding that she planned to have lunch with friends at an Arabic restaurant before exploring the city.
Similarly, a Yemeni student who asked to be known as Saad said he would be celebrating with friends.
“We’re thinking of having kabsa (an Arab rice dish) for lunch in Bukit Bintang. It’s my favourite dish and something I often have at home,” he said, adding that this is his third Hari Raya away from family due to his studies.
Libyan students Othman Mohamad Al Mabrouk, 33, and Abdarrazag Bileid, 32, chose to cook asida – a traditional flour-based pudding – and invite friends over.
“It’s our first time being away from home. I miss my family very much and hope everything is going well despite what’s happening,” said Othman, adding that he enjoys the festive atmosphere in Kuala Lumpur.
For Syrian national Ghena Homsi, 25, who has lived in Malaysia for 14 years, the day will be spent with family over Arabic cuisine.
Yemeni chef Omar Anamani, 26, said he would be having nasi Arab and mandi this Hari Raya.
“Back home, we enjoy desserts, lamb and time with family. It’s been three years celebrating here. I miss my family very much and hope to return this September.”
Jordanian visitor Retal Shadi Issa, 16, who is in Malaysia for the first time, said her family opted for an Arabic meal to recreate the festive mood.
“Back in Jordan, we go to the mosque, visit relatives and have a big feast. We are in Malaysia on holiday and I’m liking it so far,” she said.
For others, the celebration is more subdued.
Riyad, a Saudi Arabian in his 30s who recently arrived in Malaysia with his family, said this year’s Hari Raya feels quieter.
“Back home, Eid is lively with big gatherings. Here, we’re just spending time together as a family,” he said, adding that he remains concerned about developments in the region.
“The situation is worrying, especially with the risk of escalation.
“We’ve even seen missiles in the skies back home,” Riyad said, though he expressed relief that the conflict has not worsened further.
A Syrian restaurant worker known as Omar said he spent Hari Raya with friends at a shopping mall.
“Malaysia celebrates Eid in such a vibrant and welcoming way, but my thoughts often drift back to Syria.
“I worry about what might happen if the conflict escalates,” he said.
An Iranian national, Ali, noted that Hari Raya is not typically the main celebration in Iran, where the Persian New Year, Nowruz, is more significant.
“This year is special as it is rare for Eid and Nowruz to fall on the same day. Most people back home keep Eid simple, unlike Nowruz which is elaborately celebrated,” said Ali, who has lived in Malaysia for a decade and is married to a Malaysian.
He said he marked the occasion with a simple family gathering but remains concerned about his loved ones in Iran.
“They were unreachable for weeks, but they are now safe. I just hope the conflict ends soon so I can visit my parents and siblings again,” Ali said.
