Adib Noor
With the ease of COVID-19 restrictions, reduced number of daily cases and stable vaccination rates in the country, families are once again gathering and celebrating with their loved ones.
“It had been two years since we had such a large gathering,” said Nurul, speaking with the Bulletin.
She explained that for the last two years, her family had resorted to holding celebratory events online, via Zoom.
“It was nice as we were still able to get together virtually but it wasn’t same as gathering everyone in one place to catch up after a challenging year,” she added.
Her New Year celebration was filled with fun and joy. Her family dressed up, participated in games and enjoyed the occasion over homecooked dishes.
“This is how it’s supposed to be,” said Hajibah binti Abdullah, a mother of four.
“Although not all of us are here… one of my sons is abroad with his family, it still feels good to be with the family, catching up with siblings, nieces and nephews,” she added.
Hamizah also said, “The weight of the stress and anxiety from the pandemic feels like it has been lifted but we are still taking a few precautions by making sure everyone did their ART before attending the get-together.”
The Delima clan’s gathering was filled with fun and games and ended with a prayer by the eldest in the family for a blessed year ahead and protection from Allah the Almighty.
