KUALA KANGSAR, Malaysia - While Muslims across Malaysia joyfully celebrated Eid al-Fitr marking the end of Ramadan's fasting month, the rice fields of a northern village reverberated with an extraordinary tradition - the thunderous roar of ceremonial cannons announcing the festivities.

In Kampung Talang, located 250 km north of Kuala Lumpur, villagers have maintained this unique practice since 1937. Locally called 'meriam talang', these cannons have become inseparable from their Eid celebrations.

"The booming cannon fire is what makes Eid feel real for us," shared Amar Ehzan, a 37-year-old resident. "Without that powerful sound echoing through our village, something essential would be missing from our celebration."

The tradition originated as both a celebratory marker and practical protection. Amar explained how their ancestors initially used the cannons to ward off wild animals from nearby forests during festival times, ensuring villagers could celebrate safely.

What began as simple bamboo-and-earth constructions has evolved into sophisticated steel artillery. The community now uses an impressive two metric tons of cobalt annually to fire over eighty cannons during Eid celebrations.

"Every young person in our village takes pride in continuing this tradition," Amar said enthusiastically. "It's something special that brings us together and connects generations." He added with excitement: "The anticipation builds all year for this moment when we can finally fire the cannons again."