26/02/2022
Don't know what happens in a Malay wedding? Don't worry, we got you!
Browse through our compact guide to know more and understand what happens when you get invited to a Malay wedding.
1. Merisik - This is more of something from the past since women and men are usually acquainted beforehand now, but it's a tradition where the woman is being "viewed" by the man. That's cause in Islam, it's forbidden for a man to make a proposal to a woman who is already prevailed upon to be married, so this stage allows him to avoid this little blunder. 😘
2. Akad nikah - Now, this is the official wedding ceremony and the solemnisation of the oaths. Part of the tradition goes to show that the groom is required to present the bride with gifts in order to enter her family home. The tradition also varies from state to state but essentially the groom must pass a few obstacles to reach his bride. Talk about class. 😌
3. Majlis bersanding - Basically a much larger party held for family and friends. Some good to know tips: during this event, the couple is really treated like king and queen of their big day. The guests are also offered Bunga Telur, which is a symbol of fertility. Awwww ✨
4. General social etiquette - Dress code is conservative, so do dress modestly. Money/ang-pow can be passed to the parents of the bride/groom at the end of the event. Greet the hosts with a handshake or a salam, but since it's Covid season, perhaps a bow and a smile is really sufficient. 🌝
So there you go! Let us know in the comments below if you have other tips and tricks that we should know about!
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Photo via www.weddingsatfareast.com.sg, www.penangweddingtourism.gov.my, www.adyshahadan.com, www.asmanasa.com
