KUALA LUMPUR: The practice of giving “duit raya” is synonymous with the Muslim community in Malaysia, especially during Hari Raya Aidilftri.

       For Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Idris Ahmad, it is a way to strengthen ties among Muslims and ease the burden of the needy.

       He said by giving duit raya, the giver’s generosity will be remembered forever, though Muslims should prioritise giving “duit raya” to asnaf (persons eligible to receive tithes) among their relatives before giving to others.

       “This does not apply only for duit raya but also when giving alms,” he said when contacted by Bernama.

       Idris said the reward by Allah depended on the giver’s intention in giving the alms.

       “If the intention is to show off, there is no reward from Allah for the giver,” he added.

       Federal Territory mufti Datuk Dr Luqman Abdullah agreed, saying duit raya can be considered charity, a gift, hibah or even a tithe, depending on the giver’s intention.

       “If the recipient is poor, the duit raya can be considered charity and if given for a certain occasion, it can be regarded as a gift. Otherwise, it is hibah,” he said.

       Perlis mufti Datuk Dr Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin said the practice of giving duit raya is more of a Malaysian tradition, although it is also practised in some Arab countries.

       “It is not something that contradicts religion because the basis of Eid is that we do activities that can bring joy. Giving duit raya brings joy to both the giver and recipient.

       “In fact, it is a praiseworthy tradition as it contains elements of charity and giving,” Mohd Asri said, but added that if the act is imposed on the giver and that by not giving duit raya, the person will be threatened or it will create misconceptions, then it is bad.