Song Of The Week: Selamat Hari Raya - Fazidah Joned

As the holy month of Ramadan comes to an end, the air fills with a sense of anticipation and joy. The sound of takbir reverberates through the streets, and homes are adorned with colorful decorations. Amidst the celebrations, one song has stood the test of time as the ultimate Hari Raya anthem—Fazidah Joned’s "Selamat Hari Raya." This iconic song, with its cheerful melody and heartfelt lyrics, has become synonymous with the festive spirit of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, evoking memories of simpler, happier times.

For many of us, "Selamat Hari Raya" is more than just a song—it’s a time machine. From the very first note, it transports us back to our childhood, when Hari Raya was a magical experience filled with laughter, love, and endless joy. The song’s upbeat rhythm and Fazidah Joned’s warm, inviting voice capture the essence of the celebration, reminding us of the excitement we felt as kids, eagerly waiting to collect duit raya in our little green envelopes.

Do you remember those days? Waking up early in the morning, dressed in brand-new baju raya, the house filled with the aroma of freshly baked cookies and rendang simmering on the stove. The sound of this song playing in the background as we ran around with our cousins, playing fireworks, and competing to see who could collect the most duit raya. The dining table was always a feast for the eyes and the stomach—ketupat, lemang, kuih lapis, and dodol were just a few of the treats we couldn’t resist. "Selamat Hari Raya" was the soundtrack to those moments, a melody that tied everything together.

But as we grow older, things change. The cousins we once played with are now scattered across the country, or even the world. The excitement of collecting duit raya has shifted to the joy of giving it to the younger generation. The once-simple act of visiting relatives has become a balancing act of schedules and responsibilities. Yet, despite these changes, the magic of Hari Raya remains. And every year, when "Selamat Hari Raya" plays, it reignites that same childlike excitement in us.

Fazidah Joned’s masterpiece has a unique way of bridging the past and the present. It reminds us that while time may change the way we celebrate, the essence of Hari Raya—the love, the togetherness, and the gratitude—stays the same. The song’s lyrics, "Maaf zahir dan batin," serve as a gentle reminder to seek forgiveness and cherish the bonds we share with family and friends. It’s a message that resonates deeply, no matter how old we are.

What makes "Selamat Hari Raya" so significant is its ability to unite generations. For our parents, it’s a nostalgic reminder of their youth. For us, it’s a bridge between our childhood and adulthood. And for the younger generation, it’s becoming a part of their own Hari Raya memories. Fazidah Joned’s voice, filled with warmth and sincerity, has made this song a timeless classic that continues to bring people together.

As we celebrate Hari Raya this year, let "Selamat Hari Raya" be the soundtrack to your festivities. Let it take you back to those carefree days of childhood, while also helping you appreciate the beauty of the present. Whether you’re enjoying your favorite kuih raya, catching up with loved ones, or simply reflecting on the blessings of the past year, this song is a reminder that the spirit of Hari Raya is alive and well.

So, as the familiar tune fills the air, take a moment to smile, reminisce, and embrace the joy of the season. Selamat Hari Raya, maaf zahir dan batin. May this year’s celebration be as meaningful and heartwarming as the memories we hold dear. And thank you, Fazidah Joned, for giving us a song that will forever be the heartbeat of Hari Raya.