Eid Al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, a time of fasting and prayer for Muslims around the world. It has a deep spiritual significance, celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy, as families and friends come together to exchange greetings, share meals, and give thanks for the blessings of the month.
One of the most important traditions of Eid Al-Fitr is the early morning prayer, known as Salat al-Eid, which is performed in congregations at local mosques or open grounds. This prayer is a symbol of unity and brotherhood among Muslims, as people from all walks of life gather to offer thanks to Allah for the blessings of the month.
It's also full of wonderful food traditions of gathering with loved ones around meals when breaking fast, and exchanging gifts and sweets, especially among children. It is customary for families to prepare delicious meals and sweets, such as the traditional dish of Sheer Khurma, and share them with relatives, friends, and neighbors.
30 Days: Fasting and Feasting from Dawn to Dusk.
During Ramadan, the holiest month of the year in the Islamic calendar, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food, water, and other physical needs. The fast is broken with a meal called iftar, which is shared with family and friends. Muslims also engage in additional prayers and recitation of the Quran during the month. The act of fasting helps Muslims to understand and empathize with the suffering of others and to develop a sense of community and solidarity with their fellow believers.
For a month, in some countries, streets are decorated with colorful lights, and traditional foods are prepared for iftar. Families gather to break their fasts together and attend nightly prayers at the mosque.
In the Asia-Pacific region, it is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm, as Muslims from different countries and cultures come together to celebrate. From Malaysia to Indonesia, Bangladesh to Pakistan, and from India to the Philippines, the "Festival of Breaking The Fast" is a time of celebration and togetherness. It is not just a religious festival, but it also holds significant cultural importance.
In Ramadan, Kiwanis clubs in Malaysia District provided services to the children. A collaborative effort of the Kiwanis Club of Rockville, USA, Kiwanis Club of Klang, and Kiwanis Club of Klang Central inaugurated a Media Center and Library and donated books, chairs, tables, and laptops to the SK Methodist that will benefit 900 indigent students of their community. While the Kiwanis Club of Taman Tun Dr Ismail and the Kiwanis Club of Petaling Jaya provided food aid to children of Madrasah Al-Ain Rohingya, a daycare.
Eid is the festival of charity that provides an opportunity for people of different cultures and traditions to come together and celebrate the diversity of our society. The festival promotes the values of love, compassion, service, and respect for all, regardless of race, ethnicity, or religion.
As a global organization committed to serving communities and promoting goodwill, Kiwanis International recognizes the importance of cultural diversity and respect for different traditions. We encourage our members to learn about and appreciate the customs and observances of all cultures and religions.