The guide to Hari Raya Haji in Singapore

The day symbolises the end of the Hajj, which is a pilgrimage every able-bodied and financially capable Muslim is obliged to make once in their lives. During the pilgrimage, Muslims have to perform several rituals and actions in Mecca and also three other locations around like Mina, Arafat and Mudzalifah. 

Due to the pandemic, MUIS (Islamic Religious Council of Singapore) has officially deferred this year's Hajj to next year.

Hari Raya Haji is a Muslims’ celebration to commemorate the prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail – a sign of Muslims' submission to God. As Ibrahim was about to complete the sacrifice, God intervened and provided a sheep for sacrifice instead. It is said that the father and son were on a task by God to build the square stone building (Kaaba) in Mecca, which is in the direction that all Muslims around the world pray towards.

On the morning of the festival, Muslims head to the mosque for sermons and prayers. Although larger gatherings are now allowed, you still need to book your slots at mosques as larger crowds are expected. Also, note that most prayer sessions can only be attended by fully vaccinated or eligible unvaccinated individuals. Registrations for Hari Raya Haji prayers on July 10 will open on July 7 at 10am, and there will be up to three prayer sessions at selected mosques. You can book your slots here.

Hari Raya Haji is always synonymous with the korban, also known as sacrifice. Livestock such as sheep, goats and cows will be sacrificed by those who are financially able, as a moment to commemorate prophet Ibrahim and his son Ismail. The meat from the sacrifice will be donated and distributed to the poor and needy.

This year, for the third year in a row, MUIS has released a statement that no livestock will be imported into Singapore. Instead, SalamSG Korban – a committee under the SalamSG Movement – will be working with local mosques to arrange for the korbans to be performed in Australia. The meat is then chilled and shipped to Singapore for distribution.

Compared to the bright and vibrant celebrations of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Hari Raya Haji is a lot more contemplative. But there are many things to take away from this Muslim holiday. Sacrifice is a big theme in most Muslim celebrations and this one highlights the importance of faith in God. On top of that, it is also a reminder that there are many around us that might need our help. This makes the act of donating and distributing the sacrificed meat to those who would enjoy it more than us an honourable one.