Old memories and past events have long been gone and what is left now are only remnants of old photos. One such event is the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations in the 1950s.
The female teens wore baju kurung, baju kebaya, kain batik or sarong. Females wore headscarves and the younger ones are not allowed to curl their hair. In the past, female teens prefer short haircuts and braids.
Looking at the old photographs, the writer recalls the first day of Hari Raya, where Muslims would first visit the mosque where the takbir is recited. Those who have lost their loved ones would feel sad to celebrate Hari Raya without their presence.
On the eve of the first day of Hari Raya, the females would be busy preparing the food while young girls would come together and have henna decorated on their hands. Accessories were a favourite at this time of the year. The males would gather at community halls and verandahs of houses and hang out until late night. The eve of the first day of Hari Raya became more lively with these get-together events.
In the past, Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations in Kampong Ayer were a joyful event whereby neighbours, friends and families visit each other's houses from the morning until night.
--Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin