The holy month of Ramadan is here. A month to reflect, count our blessings, and offer a helping hand to a neighbour in need. And just after that is Hari Raya, a celebration of togetherness.
Reflecting on the events of the past two years, we realise that we have a lot to be thankful for. After various movement restrictions and SOPs, getting together is something that we all know we’ve missed and appreciate even more now.
As the country enters the endemic phase of Covid-19, we’re beginning to have small gatherings again with friends and family. While Ramadan last year was quiet and subdued, this year, the bazaars will be open, and mosques will once again allow people to congregate for tarawih prayers.
The streets that were once so quiet will be bustling again with excited shoppers looking for bargains and vendors selling their wares, as Hari Raya classics blast from loudspeakers. The aroma of delicious food will fill the air. This scene is proof that as a nation, we’re resilient, and we can get through anything together.
Breaking fast, or buka puasa, will once more be a time to gather with friends and family to enjoy delicious food as a treat to celebrate one more day of fasting, and enjoy each other’s company.
What got us through the pandemic was our Malaysia Boleh spirit. Our tireless effort in supporting each other by buying from local businesses, donating whatever we could spare, and making sure we were all safe by following SOPs wherever we went. When the floods came last December, we took time off to help our fellow Malaysians and asked for nothing in return.
That’s the true spirit of a united people. With #JomDerma, donating to those in need has never been easier. RHB Mobile Banking app or any e-wallet app on your smartphone, supporting a charity is as simple as scanning a QR code.
In that same spirit, let’s continue to support our fellow Malaysians and their businesses. There are great deals from local merchants on RHB’s #JomSapot platform, which you can use to get discounts on local delights for buka puasa while helping local businesses support the economy. Break your fast with family and friends with a steamboat dinner at Johnny’s Restaurants, or go for a classic Malaysian favourite with The Chicken Rice Shop.
You can also pledge your support for these F&B businesses, and hundreds of others.
#JomSapot is also here to help SME owner. The platform supports SMEs from all sectors including retail, F&B, hospitality, travel, fashion and entertainment. After all, SMEs form the backbone of our economy so let's help them reach a wider market and grow your business through the #JomSapot BeliLokal initiative.
With Hari Raya coming up, there’s bound to be plenty of preparations for the festivities. Now that we can open our homes again for the open house celebrations, we’ll need to get ready for the guests. This is the first time in two years that we are able to celebrate together in true Malaysian fashion, so let’s go all out!
On #JomSapot, you can find everything you need to make your open house a cherished memory, from traditional kuih to modern gastronomic delights, there is something for everyone. If you’re thinking of giving your home a kampung vibe, you can get some classic decorative items from MR. DIY, such as ribbons or lights.
You can even shop for baju raya from places like Siti Khadijah and Ariani Luxe, knowing that your purchase goes a long way in helping your fellow Malaysians and supporting the local economy. For one-of-a-kind items and custom-made clothing, Artisans Digital Mall offers hand-crafted delights made by Malaysian crafters.
This year, 2022, is the year of the great comeback. We look forward to a celebration of strength and unity. #TogetherWeProgress towards building a great nation.