Big and bright

SINGAPORE — Larger-than-life exhibits for photo opportunities; an intricate display of lights stretching over a longer distance, younger stall owners hawking hipster food ... these are some highlights you can expect at this year’s Hari Raya light up and bazaar.

The Hari Raya light up will be launched tonight at 7pm to kick off the Ramadan season, and Associate Professor Fatimah Lateef, adviser to Marine Parade Geylang Serai Division, told TODAY that it is going large this year, and will be “more interactive, different, and (will) give that ‘wow’ feeling”. She further explained: “We want to showcase Malay culture and provide hands-on experiences, such as with our props.”

These specially constructed new props — such as the crescent moon and a star; a gong framed against crown (which Assoc Prof Fatimah revealed is often found on doors in the homes of kampungs to welcome guests) and a kampung-styled open-air pavilion — all reflect Malay-Muslim elements. In addition, the pavilion will serve as a satellite stage and events space for smaller weekly cultural performances from Fridays to Sundays held this month, or simply for visitors to gather with family and friends.

The light display has been extended from last year’s 2.3km to the current length of 2.8km, from Lorong 101 Changi to Still Road. Assoc Prof Fatimah describes the design this year as “more three-dimensional”, pointing out that a lot of thought has gone into it. For instance, it features the phrase “Berbudi Bahasa”, a common rejoinder used in the Malay community to remind themselves to be polite and respectful, and uses the motiffs of jasmine flowers, cloves and batik — all popular and symbolic items in the Malay culture.

Also new this year is the venue of the annual trade fair. Due to construction in Paya Lebar, the trade fair site has been moved to the open plot beside Eunos MRT Station — which Assoc Prof Fatimah hopes will entice more residents in the east to visit.

“We’re expecting about the same number of stalls — about 1,000 over two venues — and I’m excited to see what’s going to be there,” she shared. “There were a lot of young entrepreneurs who set up stalls selling interesting items and hipster food last Hari Raya, and I think this is something that will continue this year.” Serene Lim