Celebrating Syawal in Bahrain

THE first day of Syawal is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated celebrations for Muslims around the world. It has long been synonymous with festivity in every aspect — from colourful attire and festive dishes to gatherings with the entire family.

Celebrating Eid in a different atmosphere inevitably touches the hearts of those living abroad, who long for the familiar celebrations of the past with their loved ones.

However, this does not change the tradition of Malaysians overseas in continuing their Eid celebrations, especially amid the unrest in the Gulf region due to tensions between Iran, Israel and the United States. Despite being far from their families, they gather with fellow expatriates and prepare for Eid just as they would back home.

Even in a tense environment, food supplies remain sufficient, although there have been slight changes in prices. Wet markets and Asian grocery stores remain the main places to shop for Eid preparations. Previously, supplies of Asian products such as pandan leaves and chilies were delivered weekly, but shipments have recently been delayed due to the closure of Bahrain’s airspace. As an alternative measure, Bahrain’s national airline, Gulf Air, has operated flights from Dammam, Saudi Arabia. This has somewhat affected logistics activities and explains the increase in the prices of goods.

Due to the uncertain situation, the Eid al-Fitr prayers are held in mosques with limited capacity. This means that congregants are not allowed to pray outside the mosque or in open areas.

Eid celebrations among the Arab community in Bahrain are somewhat different, as they are usually attended only by close family members and celebrated on the first day. However, for the Malaysian diaspora, the tradition of open houses is still practiced, albeit with slight variations. It is customary for guests to bring their own dishes to gatherings, such as nasi himpit, kuah kacang, lemang, lodeh, soto ayam, nasi minyak, ayam masak merah, cendol and homemade kuih raya.

What is Eid without everyone showing off their "outfit of the day" in colourful traditional attire brought from Malaysia? They often choose interesting locations, such as Bahrain’s iconic landmarks, as backdrops for family photos. Children delight in wearing baju kurung and baju Melayu and the tradition of giving duit Raya continues here. The joy of sharing meals and gathering together strengthens harmony among us here.

Despite feelings of anxiety, worry and fear, meeting friends in person helps ease emotional distress. Stories of the attacks become the main topic of conversation, as people recount how they reacted to protect themselves on the day of the incident. For the record, the first-day attack targeted a United States naval base located in Juffair, affecting around 20 Malaysian families living in the area and nearby. All were instructed to evacuate their homes and seek shelter elsewhere. Seven families took refuge at a fellow Malaysian’s home in Zallaq, on the western side of Bahrain, while others sheltered at the Malaysian Embassy in Manama and in hotels.

Now, the public can finally breathe a sigh of relief after a two-week ceasefire agreement was reached on April 8. This period is being used by many to resume their daily routines without the disruption of explosions and sirens, as well as to recover emotionally from the aftermath of the attacks. Although the future remains uncertain, there is hope that this conflict will soon find a resolution and that they will be able to return home to Malaysia to reunite with their families.

Norhani Aida Mohd Nor is a Malaysian residing in Bahrain. The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of Sinar Daily.