Hari Raya Haji, also known as Eid al-Adha or the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant Islamic holidays celebrated by Muslims around the world, including Singapore. This festival commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to God, a story shared by many Abrahamic religions. In Singapore, Hari Raya Haji is marked with unique traditions, community activities, and a spirit of generosity and sacrifice. Here, we explore how it is celebrated in 2024, the latest statistics, and how companies can support their Muslim employees during this important time.

Hari Raya Haji Celebrations in Singapore

In 2024, Hari Raya Haji falls on June 17th. The day begins with special prayers held at mosques across the island. Muslims gather early in the morning for the Eid prayers, which are followed by a sermon. This year, approximately 600,000 Muslims in Singapore are expected to participate in these prayers, according to the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS).

One of the central aspects of Hari Raya Haji is the act of Qurban, or animal sacrifice. This ritual involves the sacrifice of livestock, such as goats, sheep, or cows, to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim's devotion. The meat from these sacrifices is distributed to the less fortunate, both within the community and abroad. In 2024, over 5,000 animals are expected to be sacrificed across various mosques and designated areas in Singapore, providing essential support to those in need.

Family and community gatherings are also integral to the celebrations. After the prayers and Qurban, families come together to enjoy festive meals and exchange well-wishes. Traditional dishes such as rendang, ketupat, and lontong are commonly served, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of the Malay-Muslim community in Singapore.

Supporting Muslim Employees During Hari Raya Haji

For many Muslim employees, Hari Raya Haji is not just a day of religious observance but a time for reflection, family, and community. Companies can play a crucial role in supporting their Muslim team members during this period through various means:

1. Flexible Work Arrangements: Allowing flexible work hours or the option to work from home can help Muslim employees balance their religious duties and work commitments. This flexibility is particularly important on the days leading up to and including Hari Raya Haji.

2. Understanding and Respect: Building a workplace culture that respects and acknowledges religious diversity is essential. Managers and colleagues should be aware of the significance of Hari Raya Haji and be considerate of the needs of their Muslim peers. This includes being mindful of fasting periods and prayer times.

3. Leave Policies: Providing additional leave options or facilitating the use of annual leave during this period can enable Muslim employees to fully participate in the celebrations. In Singapore, Hari Raya Haji is a public holiday, but accommodating extra time off can be beneficial for those who need to travel or engage in extensive preparations.

4. Cultural Awareness Programs: Organising cultural awareness sessions can help educate the broader workforce about Hari Raya Haji and other significant religious observances. Such initiatives promote inclusivity and foster a deeper understanding of different cultural practices within the workplace.

5. Community Engagement: Encouraging and supporting participation in community service activities related to Hari Raya Haji, such as Qurban meat distribution or charity drives, can enhance team spirit and solidarity. Companies can organise or sponsor such activities, demonstrating a commitment to social responsibility and community support.

The Significance of Supporting Inclusivity

Creating an inclusive workplace that supports religious and cultural diversity is beneficial for both employees and employers. For Muslim employees, feeling acknowledged and respected during significant religious observances like Hari Raya Haji can enhance job satisfaction and loyalty. For companies, fostering an inclusive culture can lead to increased employee engagement, productivity, and retention.

In 2024, as Singapore continues to embrace its multicultural identity, the celebration of Hari Raya Haji serves as a reminder of the importance of community, sacrifice, and support. By understanding and respecting the needs of our Muslim colleagues, we contribute to a more harmonious and cohesive workplace, reflecting the broader spirit of unity and inclusivity that defines Singapore.

Conclusion

Hari Raya Haji is a time of deep spiritual significance for Muslims in Singapore, marked by prayer, sacrifice, and community. As we celebrate this festival in 2024, it is crucial for companies and workers to support their Muslim teammates, recognizing the importance of this observance and facilitating a respectful and inclusive work environment. By doing so, we honour the spirit of Hari Raya Haji and strengthen the bonds that unite us in our diverse society.

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Reference Links:

https://www.timeout.com/singapore/things-to-do/public-holidays-singapore

https://www.nlb.gov.sg/main/article-detail?cmsuuid=da993df2-3d30-4d56-b8c2-80fa58b375a7#:~:text=In%20Singapore%2C%20the%20ritual%20takes,at%20the%20respective%20slaughter%20sites.

https://www.visitsingapore.com/festivals-events-singapore/cultural-festivals/hari-raya-aidilfitri/