Singapore is a secular state 世俗主義 with a constitution that guarantees freedom of religion. As a result, a wide array of religions coexist harmoniously in the country, including Buddhism 佛教, Christianity 基督教, Islam 回教, Hinduism 印度教, Taoism 道教, Sikhism 錫克教, and others.
We allocate our public holidays to various religions.
Hari Raya Aidilfitri, also known as Eid al-Fitr, is one of the most significant religious festivals celebrated by Muslims in Singapore and around the world.
Religious Significance: Hari Raya Aidilfitri marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting 絕食 and spiritual reflection observed by Muslims worldwide. It is a joyous occasion that celebrates the completion of a month-long period of fasting, prayer, and self-discipline.
Cultural Celebration: In Singapore, Hari Raya Aidilfitri is not only a religious celebration but also a cultural event that brings together family, friends, and communities. It is a time for Muslims to express gratitude for their blessings, seek forgiveness, and renew ties with loved ones.
Preparations and Festivities: Leading up to Hari Raya, Muslims in Singapore engage in various preparations and rituals. Homes are cleaned and decorated, new clothes are bought or tailored, and special dishes are prepared for the festive feasts. The eve of Hari Raya, known as “Hari Raya Puasa,” is marked by special prayers at mosques and communal gatherings with family and friends.
Traditional Attire: On Hari Raya, Muslims in Singapore dress in their finest traditional attire, with men wearing “baju Melayu” (traditional Malay attire) and women wearing “baju kurung” or “baju kebaya” (traditional Malay dresses). The attire is often complemented with accessories such as headscarves, jewelry, and songkok (traditional Malay caps).
Visiting and Open Houses: Hari Raya is a time for visiting and open houses, where Muslims welcome guests into their homes to exchange greetings, share meals, and celebrate together. It is a tradition known as “makan-makan” (eating together) and reflects the spirit of hospitality and camaraderie. 好似華人過年
Temples
1) Kuan Im Thng Temple (Bugis) 四馬路觀音廟
Allows drawing of lots 可以求籤
7am – 6.30pm
2) Sri Krishnan Temple (close to Kuan Im Thng Temple at Bugis)
8am – 12pm, 6pm – 8.45pm
3) San Qing Gong 三清宮
7am – 7pm
4) Thian Hock Keng Temple 天福宮
7.30am – 5.30pm
Singapore’s oldest Chinese temple
Main Deity 神仙: Mazu 媽祖
5) Jalan Kayu Joint Temple 惹蘭加由聯合廟
8am – 11.30pm
- Ubin Thai Buddhist Temple 烏敏泰佛寺 (泰廟)
- Bao Gong Temple 包公廟
- Leong Nam Temple 龍南殿
- Chong Yee Temple 萬國山忠義廟