Johor bahru: Receiving a Hari Raya Aidilfitri card from a student from the persons with disabilities (PWD) group sparked a teacher from Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Taman Suria to start a collection of festive cards. Hafizul Syarafi Mohd Noor, 36, a visual arts and Malay Language teacher, said it was even more touching that the Raya cards were made by the student since 2020.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the student continued to send the greeting card every subsequent year. Hafizul Syarafi shared that these cards are special because they are not bought from anywhere but specially made. He noted that he has collected around 400 cards from various individuals, organisations, and dignitaries.

Sharing his experience, Hafizul Syarafi mentioned that besides the student, dignitaries who had sent him Raya cards included His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, the Sultan of Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, and several Pahang and Terengganu royals. He also received greeting cards from several politicians and acquaintances from abroad, including Indonesia.

Hafizul Syarafi emphasized the importance of this 'classic hobby' and its sentimental value. He shares the experience with his students, highlighting the cards' historical value and the respect for the Royal Institution and distinguished individuals. He believes that sending Raya cards educates students on being literate, articulate, and writing kind words to others.

He described the hobby as therapeutic and a way to expand his network. Hafizul Syarafi expressed his commitment to continuing this tradition to preserve the practice of exchanging Raya greetings through cards, contrasting it with the modern preference for online greetings.

Hafizul Syarafi also expressed gratitude that his eldest son, Muhammad Athariz Hafiz, 8, has shown interest in this hobby, often helping him open every Raya card received.