In Malaysia, what term describes returning to one's hometown for Hari Raya?

In Malaysia, returning to one’s hometown for Hari Raya is known as balik kampung, literally “return to the village.”

The phrase describes a major seasonal homecoming. Many people who work or study in Kuala Lumpur and other cities travel back to their family villages or hometowns before Eid al-Fitr. The journey may involve cars, buses, trains, or flights, creating especially heavy traffic during the holiday period.

Balik kampung is more than transportation: it expresses the importance of family, ancestry, and maintaining ties with one’s place of origin. At home, families commonly attend Eid prayers, visit older relatives, ask forgiveness, and share festive meals. The custom is also found in Singapore and Brunei, although the phrase is especially associated with Malaysia.

Do not confuse balik kampung with open house. Balik kampung is the homecoming journey; an open house is a gathering where hosts welcome relatives, neighbors, and guests during Hari Raya. In Indonesia, a similar Eid homecoming is generally called mudik or pulang kampung.