KUALA LUMPUR, May 2 (Bernama) -- After two years of celebrating Aidilfitri under COVID-19 restrictions, Malaysian Muslims are feeling grateful to be able to celebrate the auspicious day with joy with their beloved families at their hometowns and villages this year.

This follows the government's announcement on the transition to endemicity which began last April 1.

Commenting on this year's celebration, independent preacher Ustaz Najid Jamal said Muslims should continue to comply with the standard operating procedure (SOP) and not to be complacent or take the COVID-19 threat lightly.

He also reminded that the ‘sunat’ (practices encouraged in Islam) on the morning of Aidilftri should not be forgotten as a continuation of the acts of worship performed throughout the month of Ramadan.

"We must remember that the COVID-19 virus is still with us. Don’t let laughter turns to tears due to our complacent attitude.

"Among the sunat practices that we can do even though we will be celebrating Aidilfitri on a moderate scale are performing Aidilfitri prayers and visiting relatives," he said.

Others are taking a bath and eat before leaving for Aidilfitri prayers, wearing the best clothes and fasting six days of Syawal, Najid added.

Meanwhile, Bangi Ikatan Muslimin Malaysia (ISMA) Youth chief Ibrahim Azran urged those who can afford it to provide alms to those in need and the less fortunate.

-- BERNAMA