Hari Raya Haji 2025
Date: June 6, 2025 (Friday)
Country: Cocos (Keeling) Islands Public Holidays
Description
Hari Raya Haji is the Muslim festival also called Eid al Adha. It honors the faith and obedience shown by the prophet Ibrahim. The day reminds people about trust in God and caring for others.
The date follows the Islamic calendar. It falls on the tenth day of Dhu al Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic year. Because the Islamic calendar is lunar, the date moves earlier by about eleven days each year.
For people in the Cocos Keeling Islands it is one of the most important religious days. Many residents are Cocos Malay Muslims, so the holiday is a time of deep meaning and shared reflection across the community.
The day is also linked to the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca. It marks the end of the main pilgrimage period and connects local worshippers to Muslims around the world who are observing the same holy time.
Traditions
On Cocos people gather for mosque prayers and meet family and friends. They dress in bright traditional clothes like sarongs and kebayas. Children often help at home and join in the lively visits to relatives and neighbours.
A common ritual is sharing meat from sacrifices with the community and families in need. Neighbours exchange cooked portions and help each other prepare large meals. Visiting graves to pay respects to ancestors is sometimes part of the day.
Foods include coconut rich curries, rendang, satay, steamed rice parcels, and sweet kuih. Houses fill with cooking smells as everyone eats together. Music, chatting and laughter make the celebration warm and community focused.
Travel Tips
Many shops, cafes and government services may be closed or have shorter hours. Book flights and ferries ahead. Expect local gatherings and busier roads near community centers. Dress modestly, stay quiet near places of worship, and ask before taking photos.
Enjoy the holiday by joining public events if invited and buying from open local businesses. Carry water, sun protection and mosquito repellent. Plan morning activities when services run. Keep noise low, follow local rules and tidy up after yourself to show respect.