SIBU, April 28: Office administrator Ali Saibe is elated now that he can finally hold an open house this Hari Raya following the easing of the Covid-19 restrictions, after two years of various forms lockdowns.
“To us Muslim, we fully welcome the government’s decision for us to hold an open house as without it is like there is no Raya,” he said.
Ali, 57, recalled that during the first year of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, they had a subdued Raya as open houses were prohibited.
“Last year, we were allowed to accept visitors but only from immediate family members. Only my sister-in-law visited us as my family members are in Matu while those from my wife’s side are in Mukah,” he explained.
Ali, who has two working adult children and his youngest song just starting Primary 3, remembered that last Raya, Rela members were conducting spot checks around Sibu Jaya where he is staying to ensure that revelers do not violate the standard operating procedures.
Though open house is now allowed, he said he would still take extra precautions to prevent contracting the virus.
“No doubt open house is permitted now but I will limit the number of visitors at one time,” he said.
He would hold his open house on the first day only. Prior to that he will be in Mukah to visit his wife’s family.
Saberkas Nangka branch secretary Mohd Safree Mohd will also be accepting guests during his open house at Jalan Bakong.
“We are ready to hold an open house for this Raya after not having it for two years,” he said.
“Our neighbours have also prepared themselves for the Raya celebrations by repainting their house and decorating it beautifully. Some of them also having ‘bertuntung’ (putting up festive lights) activities nightly starting at 7pm,” he added.
A fertilizer seller, Abang Hashim Shah, 56, however, preferred to play it safe by not holding an open house this year.
“I will be celebrating Raya with my immediate family members and will not be holding an open house. But if friends or relatives want to come, I will accept them,” he said. — DayakDaily
