Selamat Hari...

Ever since setting foot in Malaysia it's been 'Selamat hari' everything - Selamat hari merdeka to celebrate independence from the British & offer discounts at shopping malls, then straight into ramahdan with a month of 'ramahdan menus' (post-fasting). Fasting is brutal in a food-obsessed nation where spicy aromas are at every corner - stalls are set up early to 'break the fast' & Ramahdan specials are everywhere. Month-long sales at the malls whilst fast food outlets & Chinese restaurants go about business as usual... the end is nigh, time for glittery treats 'Selamat Hari Raya'!!! So as soon as the Muslim festivities are over, the Hindu community are out in force 'Selamat Hari Deepavali' - Happy New Year again - Bollywood beats, rice mosaics & spicy cookies. November is a food festival & Christmas decorations & Santa hats have appeared in shops...selamat hari hari!!!