As our nation progresses over the decades, much nostalgia, practises and memories are long forgotten. Three clients at Metta Day Rehabilitation Centre for the Elderly, from the Pioneer Generation, shares with us the old spirit of Hari Raya that they miss.
In modern times due to our busy schedule, we get our traditional clothes off the racks in shops and malls and baked treats from bazaars. But back in Mdm Hajjah’s childhood days in Jalan Cenderai (Johor), baking traditional Malay cakes (kuehs) and sewing traditional Malay attire for adults and children is the norm which she enjoys doing it with her family members.
“When I was growing up in my kampong in Jalan Tangi (present day Eunos), I was tasked with manning the kitchen. Hari Raya would mean a full day of cooking starting from early morning before sunrise for my family and our many guests. As a young girl, it was a pride for me to hold such a big responsibility for the family. My late mother would guide and instruct me in the kitchen while giving me full authority in cooking the traditional dishes. She had confidence in me as I had learned the ropes of cooking and preparation of our family recipes at a very young age from her.”
“Last time in Singapore when we could still have fireworks, my siblings and I would play with them during every Hari Raya. It was our way of celebrating the festival. I grew up in Kampong Jawa (present day Arab Street) where families and neighbours played and ate together. As I got older, I helped my family to sell kuehs along the five foot way at the marketplace whenever Hari Raya was near. We didn’t have much back then but our lives were simple and we were all happy.”
