Malay

The Malays or Bumiputra are a close knit community with emphasis on family values. The Malays make up the largest ethnic group in Malaysia and can be found everywhere. Most are working in the cities while there are still some who are still living in "kampungs" or villages with agriculture as their livehood. Islam is their common faith and it binds them together in unity as foreigners are apt to comment. A Malay with islamic faith is also known as a Muslim.

Festivals/Celebration

The two main celebrations of the Malay community will have to be Hari Raya Puasa and Hari Raya Haji. Hari Raya Puasa is when they celebrate after one month of fasting during Ramadan. The tradition of 'balik kampung' or going back to the village is a ritual most Malays go through during this time as most of them work in the cities.

It is a time of feasting and also forging closer ties with their neighbours and friends. Children go from house to house to collect 'green packets'. These packets contain a token sum of money. On the other hand, Hari Raya Haji is celebrated to commemorate Muslims who have performed their 'haj' in the Holy Land. The celebrations include a 'kenduri' or feast for the kampung folks and also prayer and thanksgiving.