Raya came Calling

It was not going to be the same compared to the previous year. Ba was no longer with us. We spent the evening before at my Mum’s place at Bukit Antarabangsa welcoming some neighbours dropping by for takbir after the Isya’ prayers.

I woke up early on the Raya morning, and it was raining heavily outside, cancelling my plans to visit Ba’s grave. The prayers came after that, also at Bukit Antarabangsa. Ba usually manned the Zakat desk. Since he was no longer around, the Imam was there in his place. I took some time talking to him and everybody mentioned that they missed Ba especially during Ramadan when Ba helped to manage some of the Surau events.

Prayers and then a short tahlil. We were off after that.

More food at Mum’s followed by the obligatory photos. I then set off to Gombak to join Anita’s parents before setting off for my long drive to Kota Bharu after noon.

Welcoming Ramadan

So, Ramadan was here again, and since I was able to cancel the clinic tomorrow, I went about for prayers. I initially thought about visiting my Mum after prayers, but since it was quite late, I decided otherwise.

Being the first of Ramadan also meant that the mosque was full. The place was buzzing with small children. As per usual, I would leave when the click hit 10. Tonight, the prayers went only to 8 rakaat. As a result, I actually finished the prayers with the crowd.

Since in school, I have always loved Ramadan for the atmosphere as well as the food. Looking forward to visit the Pasar Ramadan - or two - tomorrow afternoon.

Happy Ramadan all.

Aidilfitri

Woken up by Anita this morning to get ready. As usual, I would be the designated driver for the Aidilfitri Prayers. It was not that far away, but still quite a walk for my Dad-in-law.

The mosque was packed. And I was sure at least 10 to 15% of the crowd were Somali. They had a huge population over around Gombak. Most of them being UIA students. Allegedly. But it seemed that they had their extended family along with the as well.

After prayers, it was time for the family. With the new clothes and all ..... Can't blog much. I got food to eat!

The photos from the day was uploaded here.

Quick Trip to Muar

Last night, before the football match ended, I received a phone call from my Dad. One of our relatives passed away within the last couple of hours and he asked if I could drive him and Mum to Muar to attend the funeral the next day. So, this morning after Subuh prayers, we set off southbound.

It took us about 3 hours to reach the place as I have never been there before. We were lucky that my trusty old iPhone with PaPaGo worked like a treat. We reached there before the prayers, and most of the local folks were already gathered at the house, preparing the body for burial.

After prayers, the rest of the relatives set off for the cemetery, located about 10 km away. We decided to stay at the house, greeting the rest of the relatives who were left behind.

The elderly relative who passed away was recently diagnosed with lung cancer. Being in his 80s, he was just given symptomatic treatment, and was at home surrounded by his loves ones when he drew his last breath. One of my cousin who was working in Sibu did not manage to get home in time - she arrived just 10 minutes too late unfortunately.

It was customary to give tokens to those attending the funeral Prayers. Here, the family distributed sarongs.Alfatihah.