May 15, 2020, 07:32 PM
On May 15, MUIS (The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore) announced that Hari Raya visits will not be allowed during the circuit breaker period.
Such circumstances will, of course, make this year's Hari Raya celebrations different from previous years.
And a short film produced by online media platform Muslim SG reimagines one way to keep the festive spirit alive.
The Malay language film is titled "Jauh Di Mata, Dekat Di Hati", which translates to "Far in distance, close at heart".It was first shared to Muslim SG's Facebook page on May 13, 2020.
The film follows an elderly mother as she struggles to bring her family together to celebrate Hari Raya during the circuit breaker period.
Heartwrenching moments
Here are some heartwrenching moments from the film:
When the mother wanted to welcome her son, who works as a nurse, with a glass of water only for him to stop her from coming near.
Clip from Muslim SG
When the daughter closed the door on her mother.
Clip from Muslim SG.
And when the mother found out that the rest of her family couldn't come over for Hari Raya the following day.
Clip from Muslim SG.
WARNING: Spoiler alert.
When Hari Raya finally comes around, it is revealed that the children had planned a gathering with the rest of the family via video chat.
Clip from Muslim SG.
They even coordinated to wear blue traditional outfits together.
The daughter also sneakily sent her mother's secret kuih bangkit recipe to the rest of the family members so they too can have a sense of familiarity during the festive occasion.
In the end, when the son extended his hand to seek forgiveness from his mother, she did the mufti salam and said:
"Mak understands, Imran. You have to do all these for our safety."
Clip from Muslim SG.
Responses from Singaporeans
The video has since gained more than 18,700 shares and 10,000 reactions on Facebook
It has also garnered mostly positive comments from the viewers.
Screenshot from Muslim SG/ FB.
Screenshot from Muslim SG/ FB.
Some also shared their personal experiences in dealing with Covid-19 during this period.
Screenshot from Muslim SG/ FB.
Screenshot from Muslim SG/ FB.
We hope our Muslim friends will be able to celebrate a harmonious Hari Raya this month and stay safe during this Covid-19 period.
Top Image from Muslim SG/ FB.
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