SHAH ALAM, March 22 — Money packets traditionally passed hand to hand during Aidilfitri have gone digital, with more youth now choosing the cashless QR route for quicker, easier transactions.
Though digital payments are becoming more popular, many still see traditional money packets as a symbol of Aidilfitri merriment, bringing recipients an element of surprise and nostalgia.
Changing lifestyles and technological developments have put Raya money at a crossroads, with some defending the use of traditional packets and more still adopting digital facilities.
Administrative assistant Izreen Mohd Abas, 42, said traditional money packets are special as recipients won’t know how much they’ve received until they open the envelopes.
“When you get an envelope, it’s more of a surprise because you don’t know how much is inside. The giver doesn’t feel hesitant either.
“For those who can afford it, give out Raya money, whether through QR or in envelopes. This Raya money is just a treat for children,” she said.
Customer management executive Shaheen Nafisa Mohd Dzahir, 24, chose to preserve tradition by handing out traditional money packets as has been long practised in her family.
She said physical money packets don’t just contain cash, but are a symbol of her family’s Aidilfitri tradition.
“I still hand (Raya money) out in envelopes like I have in previous years because I still have young relatives.
“From the time I was little until now, and even when I was in university, I still got (Raya money) in envelopes. It’s a tradition for my family in my hometown, and I want to keep it going,” she added.
For some, however, digital transfers are more practical, especially with it being harder to exchange banknotes ahead of Aidilfitri.
Trader Amirul Hafiz Abd Rahman, 31, said he would use QR transfers this year to hand out Raya money.
“I used to use envelopes, but this year I’m using QR because I would’ve had to exchange notes at the bank and sometimes it is out of smaller notes.
“People now are used to technology, so it’s easier to give through QR,” he said.
Human resources officer Nur Anisa Mohd Dunia, 32, said it’s easier to give Raya money digitally, and it helps parents keep track of their children’s earnings.
“If you give cash you have to exchange notes and sometimes it’s hard to get new notes. It’s easier with QR.
“Parents would also know how much their children are getting and it’s easier to save because they don’t have to go to the bank,” she explained.
Buyer activation executive Nadiah Nohhani, 43, said she chose the QR route for her nieces and nephews with e-wallets as it is easier and more practical.
She added that the method aligns with the lifestyle of today’s youth, who prefer cashless transactions.
“Most of my nieces and nephews already have e-wallets, so it’s easier to give Raya money. Today’s generation is also more used to digital payments,” Nadiah said.
