KOTA TINGGI, April 7 (Bernama) -- The tradition of lighting oil lamps during the last 10 nights of Ramadan, known as the 'malam tujuh likur', not only enlivens the atmosphere leading up to Hari Raya Aidilfitri but also fosters unity and harmony in the community. 

Residents of Taman Anggerik Tenggara here are harnessing the nostalgic power of this age-old practice by installing more than 1,000 oil lamps on 13 streets in Zone 6.

Taman Anggerik Tenggara Kawasan Rukun Tetangga (KRT) chairman Rasid Abd Gepar, 43, said he was deeply moved by the overwhelming response from the residents, who started installing the oil lamps from the beginning of Ramadan.

He said the activity received support from Tenggara UMNO division chief Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba, who participated in a patrol convoy with the residents last night.

Rasid said they introduced a competition for the best oil lamp decoration this year to further whip up the joy and festive spirit among the residents.

"All 456 houses with an estimated 1,000-plus residents are involved. They remain enthusiastic despite having to use their own budget to buy materials and decorations for the oil lamps,” he told reporters here last night.

A resident, Haruddin Hamed, 48, said the whole community was pleased as even the elderly, teenagers and children were involved in the installation of the oil lamps.

"Alhamdulillah, the response was tremendous tonight, with more than 200 motorcycles involved in the convoy. Some even performed dances, so the young people could experience something similar to the past,” he said.

Adham said the residents’ initiative should be emulated by those in other neighbourhoods as apart from reviving traditions, it also teaches the meaning of individual sacrifice for the sake of community harmony and well-being.

"The competition is not the main goal, but we just want to recognise their excellent effort with some prizes. The Kota Tinggi district unity officer and local community leaders will evaluate the entries,” he said.

Kota Tinggi district unity officer Rozaidi Ikhwan, 50, said apart from fostering unity and harmony, the nighttime programme also helps prevent crimes.

"This is the first programme of its kind in this area and Alhamdulillah, despite the lack of financial resources, they came together and raised funds to brighten their area.

"Besides, we always conduct patrols at night through the Volunteer Patrol Scheme (SRS) to prevent crimes in the neighbourhood," he said.

-- BERNAMA