AI-generated Raya cards more popular than ever
2026-03-02 - 23:53
Many Malaysians are now turning to artificial intelligence to create personalised Hari Raya greetings. (AI-generated image) KUALA LUMPUR: There was a time when receiving a handwritten “Selamat Hari Raya” card felt almost magical. Slipped into the mailbox, scented faintly with ink and nostalgia, some even burst into festive tunes the moment you opened them. Fast forward to today, and the mailbox has gone digital but the Raya spirit is very much alive. Instead of glitter and cardboard, many Malaysians are now turning to artificial intelligence to create personalised Raya greetings. Think cartoon avatars, animated family portraits, and even feline sidekicks dressed in baju Melayu. For 35-year-old Johorian Suzana Ali Hassan @ Ali, AI is not about replacing tradition, but refreshing it. “In the past, we wrote greetings by hand to create a different feel, but now even if it is generated using AI, our intention and effort are still meaningful,” she said. Suzana Ali Hassan creates AI-generated visuals featuring herself and her cat character, Pumpkin, for Hari Raya. (Suzana Ali Hassan pic) To her, sincerity has never depended on the medium. “Choosing a suitable design for someone – that feeling still comes from the heart, even if we use AI. AI is just a tool to realise what is in our hearts.” Using applications such as Gemini Pro and Flow, Suzana creates AI-generated visuals featuring herself and her cat character, Pumpkin – a star in his own right among her followers. Her charming, often whimsical creations have struck a chord with fellow pet lovers and creative souls online. She also shares tutorials on making AI Raya cards on social media, where many have eagerly tried their hand at designing their own. The results range from adorable to downright impressive. “Many are happy when they successfully create their own cards because they can include personal elements such as their pets or favourite characters,” she said. “AI is just a tool, but the intention to make others happy still comes from within.” Whether penned by hand or generated by AI, at the heart of every Raya greeting is a simple wish to connect with loved ones. (AI-generated pic) Twenty-seven-year-old Nurul Syuhada Roslan agrees. For her, digital cards are not only convenient but cost-effective – especially when sending greetings to loved ones living far away. “Traditions may change but the vibes are still there,” she said. “With AI, the designs are no longer limited and become more interesting. The sincerity is still there, just like the effort of those who give Raya cards.” From musical greeting cards to animated alter egos, the format may have evolved – but the message remains the same. At the heart of every Raya greeting, whether penned by hand or generated by code, is a simple wish to connect and share joy.