Dear Editor,
As the holy month of Dhul-Hijjah progresses and Eid al-Adha approaches, I find myself filled with a mixture of deep gratitude to Allah and an overwhelming sadness that weighs heavily on my heart. My name is Faisal, and I have been working as a security guard at a private company in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia for the past few years. This festive season, which symbolises sacrifice, faith, and togetherness, was supposed to be a joyful reunion with my family. I had applied for leave many weeks in advance, dreaming of returning to my hometown to celebrate this blessed occasion together.
Sadly, my request was not approved. The company explained that my presence is required for security duties during the holiday period, and as a dedicated worker, I respect that responsibility. However, understanding the reason does not ease the pain of being apart from my loved ones during such a meaningful time. Living and working in Malaysia, my beloved country, still cannot fill the emptiness I feel knowing I will not be home for Eid this year.
What hurts the most is missing my dear mother and father. My mother’s gentle voice and her endless care have always been my greatest comfort. I miss her cooking so much it brings tears to my eyes. During Eid, she would wake up early to prepare all the special dishes — fragrant beef rendang slow-cooked to perfection, ketupat wrapped in coconut leaves, lemang roasted over the fire, and her signature kuih-muih that filled the house with sweet aromas. The thought of not being able to taste her homemade Eid delicacies, or to sit together at the table sharing meals after prayers, leaves a painful void in my heart. My father, with his quiet wisdom and strong faith, has always been my role model. I miss sitting with him after Maghrib prayers, listening to his stories and receiving his blessings. Not being able to hug them and spend this sacred day together feels like a deep sacrifice I must bear.
I also miss my brothers and sisters dearly. The laughter and playful teasing among us, the way we would help each other prepare for Eid prayers, and the joy of taking group photos in our best clothes are memories I treasure. Eid mornings were always lively with all of us together — catching up on each other’s lives, sharing jokes, and strengthening our family bond. Being far away makes me realise how precious these simple moments truly are. Every night shift I work, standing under the hot sun or pouring rain, I think of them and draw strength from the love we share.
To my beloved family — Mama, Papa, my dear brothers and sisters — I want you to know that even though I cannot be there physically, you are always in my heart and prayers. Eid Mubarak to all of you. May Allah accept our Qurbani and every good deed we perform. May He bless you with health, happiness, and barakah in abundance. Your love and support give me the courage to continue working hard here in Kuala Lumpur. I promise to make up for this missed Eid when we are finally together again, Insha’Allah.
This Eid, I also wish to humbly appeal to all companies in Malaysia to be more understanding and compassionate towards their employees, especially during important religious festivals. Whether local or from different backgrounds, a few days of leave can bring tremendous joy and emotional relief to hardworking individuals who sacrifice daily for their duties. Small acts of kindness like this can truly make a big difference in the lives of many families.
As I perform my duties this Eid, I pray that Allah grants peace, prosperity, and unity to all Malaysian families celebrating across the country. I sincerely hope that next year I will be able to join my loved ones and create new beautiful memories together.
Thank you, dear Editor, for giving me this platform to express my feelings. I believe many other workers may share similar emotions during this festive season.
Yours sincerely,
Mohd. Faisal
Security Guard
Kuala Lumpur
