Culture
The Cocos Keeling Islands has a multi racial population, with the majority being Cocos Malays, who are Muslim and who celebrate a range of festivities throughout the year.
Ramadan
This is the month of fasting for Muslims, and at the end of Ramadan a week-long period of festivities takes place.
Ramadan ends on 7 July 2016 and guests should take the opportunity to visit Home Island over this period.
Hari Raya Haji
Celebrates the end of the Hajj for Muslims, and will occur on 13 September 2016.
Islamic New Year
Islamic New Year celebrates the beginning of a new year for Muslims, and will occur on 3 October 2016.
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday
The Cocos Malay population celebrates Prophet Muhammad’s birthday with a march through the Cocos Malay Kampong on Home Island, which is followed by Quran reading and religious singing. This is followed by a magnificent Cocos Malay dinner, to which all are invited.
In 2016, it will be on 12 December, and is an event that should not be missed.
Act of Self Determination Day
The Act of Self Determination celebrates the decision by the Cocos Malay community to become part of Australia and is held on 6 April of each year. All are welcome to take part in this event.
Language
Cocos Malay | English |
---|---|
Selamat datang | Welcome |
Jumpa lagi | Goodbye |
Selamat tinggal / jalan | See you later |
Selamat pagi | Good morning |
Selamat sore | Good afternoon |
Selamat malam | Good evening |
Selamat tidur | Good night |
Terima kasi | Thank you |
Apa kabar | How are you |
Ya | Yes |
Tidak | No |
Makan | To eat |
Minum | To drink |
Keluah | To leave |
Boleh | Okay |
Masuk | Enter |
Hari | Day |
Rumah | House |
Pulu | Island |
Laut | Ocean |
Kapal Turban | Plane |
Hari Senin | Monday |
Hari Selasa | Tuesday |
Hari Rabu | Wednesday |
Hari Kemis | Thursday |
Hari Jumat | Friday |
Hari Sabtu | Saturday |
Hari Minggu | Sunday |