KUALA LUMPUR: For Muslims in this country, Hari Raya this year was a joyous one as they could travel back to their hometowns to celebrate with their loved ones.

       After two years of celebrating the occasion under Covid-19 restrictions, they could visit relatives’ houses, go shopping for new clothes and do so much more.

       Unfortunately, for three orphans, this year’s Hari Raya was not as exciting or joyful. They were forced to take on responsibilities which otherwise would have been taken care of when their parents were around.

       Nur Adriana Aleeya, 17, from Perak, who lost both her parents Zulkifli Mohd Yusof and Nor Azira Mohamed in September last year (aged 38 and 40 respectively at that time), said Hari Raya this year means something different to her and her two siblings, Muhammad Zafrul Aiman, 12, and Muhammad Umar Mikail, eight.

       Nur Adriana Aleeya said they are still emotionally dealing with their parents’ untimely passing from severe Covid-19 complications.

       It has taught her to appreciate life and to cherish those around her.

       “The pandemic cost my parents their lives and it is my responsibility to look after my younger siblings. I’m very grateful that our grandmother and relatives are more than willing to fend for all three of us temporarily so that we can continue with our studies.

       “Indeed, it does feel different since this is the first Hari Raya without our parents, but insya-Allah, we will gather our strength to get through these trying times,” said the Maktab Rendah Sains Mara Gerik student.

       As for 24-year-old Universiti Teknologi Mara student Amirul Rashidi Musa, who is also working as a food delivery rider, he said he was actually sad upon hearing the official announcement of this year’s Hari Raya.

       “I was just about to break my fast at a restaurant in Shah Alam when I heard the chanting of the takbir Raya and people cheering ‘esok Raya’ (it’s Raya tomorrow). I had tears streaming down my face.

       “I accept this fate with an open heart,” said Amirul, who lost both of his parents in December.

       On Raya preparations, Amirul who is from Negri Sembilan, said he kept everything simple for him and his younger brother Izzat Rashidi, 20, due to his busy schedule and the unexpected announcement.

       “Alhamdulilah, my brother and I managed to buy baju Melayu and we celebrated this year’s Aidilfitri with our aunt,” he said. — Bernama