Malay Culture in Singapore

One of the main minorities in Singapore is the Malays.  Malay influences can still be seen throughout the island today. In the past Malay culture centered around the kampong (the Malay equivalent to a village), but today, like many Singaporeans, Malays living in housing estates in Singapore.

Like many Asian culture, the Malay culture emphasizes on family values and are a close-knitted community. As majority of the Malays are Muslims, the two main celebrations of the Malay community are Hari Raya Puasa and Hari Raya Haji; both are public holidays, which all Singaporeans enjoy. The smaller-scale festivals are: the first day of the Muslim calendar month of Muharram (a New Year celebration), and Maulud (Prophet Muhammad’s birthday).

As majority of Malays in Singapore (and throughout the world) are Muslims, they do not eat pork. So when entertaining Muslim guests, make sure that no pork, lard or alcohol is used in the cooking, and that the meat is bought from a ‘halal’ food supplier. Also, when visiting a Muslim home never bring wine and always dress modestly.

Hari Raya Puasa

Hari Raya Puasa celebrated after one month of fasting during the Ramadan period. It is a time of feasting, forging closer ties with their neighbors and friends. Children go from house to house to collect ‘green packets’ (the same concept as the Chinese red packets), which contain a token sum of money.

Hari Raya Haji

Hari Raya Haji is celebrated to commemorate Muslims who have performed their ‘haj’ (pilgrimage) in the Holy Land. Including in the celebrations are a ‘kenduri’ or feast and also prayer and thanksgiving. (Culture Shock! 189)

Bibliography:

• Toynbee, Arnold J. A Study of History. New York, N.Y.: Oxford University Press, 1934.
• Craig, JoAnn Meriwether.Culture Shock! : A Guide to Customs and Etiquette. Singapore: Times Books International, 1997
• Stratton, Jerry. Forces of Acculturation.09 Apr. 1995. Culture Shock! . 09 Jul. 2002 Kwang, Mary. Chinese Culture ‘can play a role in Singapore’. 04 Nov.1999. The Straits Times.11 Jul.2002
• Ow, Chin Hock. Friends of Singapore.1 Oct. 2000. Kowloon Club.10 Jul. 2002
• Singapore, Expat. 8 Jul.2002.Society and Culture.10 Jul.2002. Expat Singapore. 10 Jul.2002