SINGAPORE – Muslims in Singapore gathered shortly after sunrise on March 21 at mosques around the island for their Hari Raya Aidilfitri prayers. <\/p>\n
The festival, also known as Hari Raya Puasa, celebrates the end of the fasting month of Ramadan<\/span><\/a> and the start of a time for forgiveness.<\/p>\n Speaking to the media after a packed first session of prayer at Kampong Gelam\u2019s Masjid Sultan, Acting Minister-in-Charge of Muslim Affairs Faishal Ibrahim said the community has remained mindful of the uncertain situation abroad as they gather to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri.<\/p>\n Since the US and Israel carried out strikes targeting Iran\u2019s leadership on Feb 28, the international order and markets have been thrown into chaos after Tehran retaliated against US allies in the Middle East.<\/p>\n This meant that those observing Ramadan<\/span><\/a> and Hari Raya Aidilfitri in the region have had to do so gripped by fear of air strikes and displacement.<\/p>\n Associate Professor Faishal said: \u201cOur thoughts are with those celebrating away from home and with those facing more difficult circumstances at home.<\/p>\n \u201cLet us carry forward the values that we have inculcated over Ramadan, such as gratitude, graciousness and giving, and celebrate in ways that are meaningful and considerate.\u201d<\/p>\n Congregants celebrating Hari Raya Aidilfitri with morning prayers on March 21 at Masjid Sultan in Kampong Gelam.<\/p>\n ST PHOTO: JASON QUAH<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n Citing his interactions during the holy month of Ramadan, Prof Faishal said he has observed a sense of gratitude among community members for the peace of mind and peace of heart that they have while celebrating and taking part in the rituals of Ramadan.<\/p>\n On March 21, Senior Minister of State for Defence Zaqy Mohamad also took to Facebook to reflect on the shadow that the war has cast on Ramadan and Hari Raya Aidilfitri.<\/p>\n He said: \u201cIn Singapore, we break fast together across races and faiths. We greet each other with warmth. We stand steady, even when the world feels unsettled.\u201d<\/p>\n Prof Faishal, who is also Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs, added he had received positive feedback about the additional prayer spaces provided in 2026 during the month of Ramadan and on Hari Raya Aidilfitri.<\/p>\n In February, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) announced plans for these additional spaces to allow elderly congregants and those with mobility issues to pray near their homes.<\/p>\n<\/picture><\/div>