Kuala Kangsar: As Malaysian Muslims marked the joyous occasion of Eid al-Fitr following a month of fasting, the thunderous sound of cannons reverberated across the rice fields of a northern village, continuing a cherished decades-long tradition that heralds the festival’s arrival.
In Kampung Talang, located 250 km (155 miles) north of the capital Kuala Lumpur, residents have been firing ceremonial cannons, known locally as ‘meriam talang,’ since 1937. This unique tradition has become an integral part of their Eid celebrations.
“For us, Eid doesn’t feel complete without the sound of the cannon… Without it, the village feels empty,” said Amar Ehzan, a 37-year-old resident.
Amar explained that the practice originated as a means to scare off wild animals from the surrounding forests, ensuring the villagers’ safety during the festivities. Over time, it evolved into a symbolic and cultural event, deeply ingrained in the local identity.
Initially constructed from soil and bamboo, the cannons have undergone modernization and are now made from steel. According to Amar, the villagers use up to 2 metric tons of cobalt to fire more than 80 cannons each year, underscoring their commitment to preserving the tradition.
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“All the younger generation in the village agree and work together to uphold this cannon tradition,” Amar said. “It’s a rare event, so the excitement to fire the cannon is there.”
The cannon-firing ceremony draws visitors from across the region, adding to the festive spirit of Eid al-Fitr and reinforcing the cultural heritage of Malaysia’s rural communities.
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