In Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei, what common name for Eid al-Fitr means 'Great Day'?

In Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei, Eid al-Fitr is commonly called Hari Raya Aidilfitri, a Malay name associated with “Great Day.”

Hari Raya combines hari, meaning “day,” with raya, meaning “great,” “grand,” or “celebratory.” Aidilfitri refers to Eid al-Fitr, the festival marking the end of Ramadan. Other names, including Hari Raya Puasa and Hari Raya Fitrah, are also used in the region.

The celebration typically begins after the sighting or official determination of the Shawwal crescent. Families attend Eid prayers, seek forgiveness from elders, visit relatives, and serve foods such as ketupat, rendang, and lemang. In Malaysia and Singapore, open houses often welcome Muslim and non-Muslim guests alike.

A common mix-up is confusing Hari Raya Aidilfitri with Hari Raya Haji, the regional name for Eid al-Adha. Aidilfitri ends Ramadan, while Haji falls during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah and is linked to the pilgrimage and sacrifice traditions.