We’re days away from the second Hari Raya celebration since the Covid-19 pandemic hit. Many states and districts in Malaysia are currently placed under MCO 3.0 and interstate travel is still banned nationwide. Suffice to say, it’s going to be another toned down affair – but don’t let that dim your festive spirit.

There’s lessons to be learnt in times of adversity; memories to be made even with only a handful of family, friends, or neighbours to share them with; and traditions to continue passing on to the next generation, whether near or far. Hari Raya commercials serve to remind us so, inviting us to reflect on this season of forgiveness and togetherness from a different perspective.

Scroll on to watch our favourite Raya videos that will surely strike a chord, warm your heart or inspire the festive spirit.

Maxis – Raya Si Sakan

Things are less than joyful this Raya for small local business whose livelihoods have been stricken by the pandemic. But what if those of us who are blessed with good fortune help to support these businesses so that they can also celebrate this festive season? Watch as Pak Sakan and Mak Jah share their story.

RHB – Sempurna

Life often throws challenges our way, sometimes in ways that seem impossible to overcome. RHB’s video is based on a true story of hardship and friendship, showing how we can draw strength from each other to face tough times – or even lifelong disabilities. No matter how deafening the world can get, together, the anthem of progress cannot be silenced.

Taylor’s University – Maaf

The pandemic has affected many livelihoods, causing some to lose their jobs or take on added responsibilities to put food on the table. For a parent, the burden and guilt of not being able to give the best to their children is very real. This ad demonstrates that sometimes, in spite of the circumstances, the best gift parents can give their children is good education.

Julie’s Biscuit – Ini Iklan Raya, Tau?!

Several common stereotypes in Hari Raya ads come to mind, especially when it comes to gender roles. There’s the elderly woman who’s waiting on her children to come home, the mom or relative who always brings up the subject of marriage, and girls having to help out in the kitchen while the guys do…well, whatever they want. Julie’s Biscuit wants to change that by challenging the perceived responsibilities and dialogues of women during the festive season. “This is a Raya ad,” but it’s definitely not your typical one.

Petronas – Syukur Raya

This Raya, Petronas presents an animated webfilm narrated by an adorable storyteller, Syuk-kur. The film explores the themes of compassion and kindness in what appears to be an ordinary neighbourhood, where a character named Poji is forced to celebrate Raya away from home. What happens when he has to navigate this challenge while facing Mak Jah, his fierce neighbour?

Gamuda Land – Gamuda Land Salam Eid-Moji

Gamuda Land’s emoji-themed video tells the story of a physically-challenged boy who moves to a new neighbourhood. Sick and tired of facing bullies, he refuses to attend school. While staying home, he finds a friend in a neighbour who slowly helps him regain confidence in going to his new alma mater. Watch the video to find out what happens next.

SP Setia – Tradisi Di Hati, Setia Di Sisi

Tradition often takes time and effort. Nevertheless, SP Setia believes that tradition is worth upholding, and it is the time and effort in keeping these traditions that bring people together. A young boy named Yusof learns this the hard way as he follows his father to prepare rendang for Hari Raya in this touching short film.

TNB – Hikmah Raya Aida

Remember Aida, the entrepreneurial young woman from TNB’s 2017 ad “Dugaan Raya Aida”? Well, she’s back this year, with a greater challenge – one that many business owners have also faced in the past year – keeping her cookie business afloat amidst a pandemic. What will happen this time? Could there be a blessing in disguise?

Maybank – MAE-mang Boleh Raya Dengan MAE By Maybank2u

With her husband out of the country for work, MAE-sara gets a visit from her father, Tok Wae, to help her look after the house. However, he struggles with adapting to city life and the modern technologies that come with it. This ad portrays how MAE-sara and Tok Wae work together to bridge technology and tradition to achieve a greater, unexpected outcome.

Digi – Andaian

Starring distinguished local actors Sharifah Amani and Nam Ron, Digi’s Raya ad follows the story of a daughter and her father who are experiencing financial difficulties. Despite this, her father continuously extends kindness and generosity to others, whilst she learns the truth behind her assumptions and overcomes them with sincerity.

Watch more: 5 ways brands have transformed their Raya ads in 2020