Malay Wedding Programme Example (Akad Nikah and Reception)
Updated 2 October 2026 ·2 min read
A clear programme helps guests, caterers, photographers and family. Use this example as a starting point and adjust it to your family's customs.
Sample akad nikah programme
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 8.30 am | Arrival of the groom's party and guests |
| 9.00 am | Prayers and a short talk |
| 9.30 am | Akad nikah (solemnisation) and taklik |
| 10.00 am | Pembatalan air sembahyang and exchange of rings |
| 10.15 am | Family photographs |
| 10.30 am | Light refreshments |
Sample reception programme (weekend)
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 11.00 am | Guests arrive, buffet opens |
| 12.30 pm | The couple arrives with kompang drums |
| 12.45 pm | Bersanding and merenjis (tepung tawar blessing) |
| 1.15 pm | Makan beradab (the couple's meal with family) |
| 2.00 pm | Photographs with guests |
| 4.00 pm | Event ends |
If your reception is on a Friday
Male guests attend Friday prayers from about 1.00 to 2.00 pm. Avoid main events in that window: schedule the couple's arrival before 12.30 pm or after 2.30 pm, and mention it on the card.
Tips to keep the day on time
- Leave 15 to 30 minutes between main events; things rarely run exactly on time.
- Ask one family member to act as the programme manager and watch the clock.
- Share the same programme with the caterer, photographer, make-up artist and kompang team.
- Show the programme on your digital card so guests know when the couple arrives.
- Check the Zohor and Asar prayer times for your date.