Weeks before `Eid al-Fitr or “Hari Raya Aidilfitri” as it is called in Penang, a thorough housecleaning is carried out, as in many other Muslim communities,  equivalent to the spring cleaning of Europe to welcome the season of spring. Homes are decorated to be ready for the first day of `Eid, when open houses are customarily held throughout Malaysia , across its many cultures. In Penang , it is customary for the men to attend `Eid Prayers, after which the whole family goes to visit the graves of lost ones. Travel becomes congested as streams of people can be seen traveling to similar destinations for this momentous occasion of `Eid. The two-day holiday also presents people the opportunity to return to hometowns to be with the family, as is the custom.

Rumah Terbuka (Open House)

After visiting the graves, the family returns home to receive visiting relatives and friends. They ask each other for forgiveness for any past wrongs. Their homes become a open house not only to fellow Muslims during scheduled times, but to everyone regardless of creed or culture. All are invited to share in this communal day. Open houses are most prevalent among the rich, with politicians sharing in this joyous day by making themselves accessible to all classes. Local delicacies of ketupat (rice wrapped in coconut leaves), peanut sauce, and redang (a dried and spiced beef dish) are served. But it is not just for the food that so many attend these open houses, but for the possibility to share with others open-heartedly and have fun.

Source:

“Hari Raya Open House” in Tourism in Penang (last accessed Nov. 8, 2004 )