KOTA KINABALU: Every year, Hari Raya is a heartfelt reminder for this Sandakan family that love and family transcend all cultural and religious boundaries.
"Despite our varied religious beliefs or cultural origins, once someone becomes part of the family, these distinctions should not create divisions among us," stated Penny Sopiah Jimi, who identifies as a Christian. Her daughter, Aaliyah Abdullah, wedded a Muslim over ten years ago.
A mother's affection has no limits.
As a mom and grandma, participating in these festivities is how I pay tribute to my children, grandchildren, as well as my sons- and daughters-in-law.
"It also assists me in teaching my grandchildren about the significance of respecting diversity in religion and culture," stated Penny, who is 63 years old.
Despite coming from various backgrounds, her family members come together at their Sandakan residence to celebrate the festival filled with warmth, love, and mutual respect.
Aaliyah, who works as a schoolteacher, converted to Islam 14 years ago.
Initially, Wendy Chong, who is of Sino-Kadazan descent, felt some discomfort when observing Hari Raya, even though she was accustomed to festivities like Chinese New Year, Kaamatan, and Christmas.
"Reflecting on my initial Eid celebration 14 years ago, I remember feeling quite uneasy, particularly with regards to specific customs and rituals," she reminisced.
Even though she faced early difficulties, the steadfast backing from her relatives smoothed her changeover and has rendered every yearly festivity even more meaningful with time.
"I am immensely grateful because not only did my parents and brothers sisters embrace me completely, but they also enthusiastically joined us in celebrating Hari Raya and even Hari Raya Haji with my family," stated Aaliyah, aged 39, who has three kids.
She mentioned that their family customs involve sorting festive cookies as a group, giving out duit raya, and coming together to break the fast during Ramadan — activities they've been doing regularly for almost ten years now.
My brothers and sisters would go out of their way to purchase special gifts for my mother-in-law or send seasonal treats to their cousins, even though they reside in separate districts.
"These little acts strengthen our connections and fill me with immense gratitude," she stated.
Her husband Roslan Bakhtiar, who works for himself at 39 years old, showed appreciation for the backing he received from Aaliyah’s clan during Hari Raya. This occasion merges Islamic traditions with Bugis customs.
"I really value how her family reliably shows up for us each year. As a result, I ensure that my family takes an active part in their celebrations, such as Chinese New Year and Kaamatan," he mentioned.
He commended Aaliyah’s commitment to adopting a new religion and way of life, personally observing the efforts she made to embrace customs foreign to her.
"I noticed that my spouse faced some initial difficulties, but I made sure I was always available to provide support," stated Roslan.
She never uttered a single complaint, not even during her initial month of fasting.
