Muslims in S’pore celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri

SINGAPORE: Muslims in Singapore celebrated Hari Raya Aidilfitri, or the end of the fasting month, on Sunday.

And they started the day with a reminder of the importance of family.

Visiting the mosque for mass prayers was the first order of business for many Muslims in Singapore.

The key message from Singapore’s Mufti, Dr Mohamed Fatris Bakaram, is balancing family ties with the need to strengthen one’s economic standing.

Minister—in—Charge of Muslim Affairs, Dr Yaacob Ibrahim, was also present at the Darul Aman Mosque in Eunos who said more outreach to various segments of the Malay community is needed to ensure the success of the family.

He said: "I think the basic foundations of family are well—known and a lot of Malay families pay a lot of emphasis on bringing the family together and emphasizing education. We need to do more of this in terms of outreaching to various segments of our community.

"We have to find some way to reach out to especially the young couples who are about to start a family — how is it they can build this into their overall long—term planning, what they can do in order to ensure the success of their family, especially their children is guaranteed."

Writing on his Facebook page, Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong hoped all Muslims will enjoy the Hari Raya festivities with family and friends from all races and religions.

Sunday was a particularly special time for Mohd Yatim Mohd Ishak, who paid a surprise visit to his family.

It’s the first time in 15 years he’s been back from Wales with his family to celebrate Hari Raya in Singapore.

His daughter, Sasha Yasmin Mohd Yatim, said: "I was really excited because I’ve never experienced Hari Raya over here before. The last time I was here for Hari Raya I think I was two years old. So I was really looking forward to the experience."

Mr Mohd Yatim Mohd Ishak said: "Since I’ve been staying in (the) UK for the last 15 years, every Hari Raya feels quiet, without any Malay friends, so that’s why I feel special this year. This time, I get to spend time with my family."

Those without family members in Singapore were also in high spirits.

At the Indonesian Embassy, an open house was held for Indonesians in Singapore.

Domestic helper Istati Dulah Mashudi said: "I feel very happy because since I’m away from my family and (am) here. I can celebrate with many of my friends and I feel at home."

Hari Raya celebrations continues throughout the Muslim month of Syawal.

— CNA/ck