In my family, when we talk about public holidays, we never really address them by their proper names. For most occasions, we use the word ‘Raya’ as it simply carries the meaning of being grand, i.e. a grand occasion.

As such, Aidilfitri [or Eid-ul Fitr in the western world], is referred as Raya Puasa, as it’s obviously a celebration after a month-long fast. Aidiladha would be known as Raya Korban, because it’s a common practice to korban [sacrifice] an animal on this day.

However, we used the term ‘Raya’ ever so loosely, that we even came to use it for non-Islamic holidays. Deepavali came to be known as Raya Hindu, and Chinese New Year would be Raya Cina. Simply because they mean ‘a grand day for Hindus’ and ‘a grand day for Chinese’ respecively. Strangely enough, we never did refer to Christmas as Raya Jesus or something…

Then again, when I think about it, Malaysia is probably the only Malay speaking country that ever uses the term Raya so casually [yeah, I can't think of a better term]. Anyway…

Selamat Hari Raya Cina, everyone! :D