Cover Holy mosque of Makkah (Photo: Getty Images)
Holy mosque of Makkah (Photo: Getty Images)
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Here are some ways to spend this sacred day in Singapore
Falling on June 29 this year, Hari Raya Haji marks the end of Haj, an annual Muslim pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca. Also known as Eid al-Adha, this religious day honours the faith of Prophet Ibrahim and his willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail.
On this day, Muslims usually head to mosques for prayers before performing the korban ritual of sacrificing livestock. Similar to Hari Raya Puasa, Muslims also make house visits to their relatives on this day.
Whether you are looking to be a part of the celebrations or thinking of ways to spend the public holiday, here are some things you can do during the public holiday.
Read more: Hari Raya 2023: 7 halal beauty brands to get your glam on
1. Muslims can reserve a spot at the mosque
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Muslims can choose to attend prayer services at one of the many mosques around Singapore, where 68 mosques will offer various prayer sessions. While bookings are not needed for most mosques, it is recommended to do so, especially if you are visiting a more crowded location. Head to the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) website to book a spot in advance.
In case you missed it: 8 majestic mosques in Singapore
2. Book a korban
Above (Photo: Getty Images)
(Photo: Getty Images)
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The annual Hari Raya Haji ritual of korban involves slaughtering livestock and distributing the meat to worshippers and the needy. Similar to last year, this year’s ritual will see sheep being sacrificed in Australia before being chilled and transported to Singapore. According to MUIS, 54 mosques are offering korban facilitating services in Singapore. Those looking to be a part of the ritual can head to their website to book a korban.
3. Give back to society
Spend the day giving back to society by volunteering at our local Muslim women association, Persatuan Pemudi Islam Singapura (PPIS). This non-profit organisation aims to support women empowerment through its programmes and services. Various volunteering opportunities are available such as being mentors to women and children in need, centre helpers and tutors. Head to PPIS’s website to sign up as a volunteer.
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4. Have a weekend getaway
If you managed to get Friday off too, giving you a long four-day weekend, why not make the most out of it with a long weekend getaway? Take a short two-hour trip to Langkawi and find yourself surrounded by clear waters, white sandy beaches and luxurious resorts. Stay at Four Seasons Resort Langkawi’s private beach villas which offer stunning views of the Andaman Sea.
Read more: These 10 luxury resorts in Langkawi are less than a 2-hour flight from Singapore
5. Catch up on your favourite TV series
Give yourself a break from work this Hari Raya Haji and catch up on your favourite dramas—or even start (and finish) a new one. Streaming sites such as Netflix and Disney are constantly updating their watch lists with new binge-worthy shows and movies. So, grab your popcorn, get comfy and watch the day away.
Amanda Goh was the former senior writer for Tatler Singapore.
