Thousands gather in mosques to mark Hari Raya

They join prayers without group size limits for first time in three years after easing of curbs

- Kok Yufeng, Jean lau, Feline Lim

Muslims in Singapore marked Hari Raya Aidilfitri with customary prayers early yesterday, congregating in large groups at mosques islandwide for the first time in three years to celebrate the holiday.

With most Covid-19 restrictions, including capacity limits on congregational worship services, lifted since April 26, thousands braved the rain in the early morning to join prayer sessions after first booking a slot online.

The wearing of masks indoors and the need to check in using SafeEntry were reminders that the pandemic is not yet over, but the mood at the mosques was joyous as worshippers came dressed to the nines and exchanged greetings and hugs with loved ones.

Madam Rossnani Abdullah, 64, a patient relations executive and a volunteer at Sultan Mosque, said: “It has been more than two years since we were able to come back here physically on Hari Raya. I feel emotional and very blessed.”

Capacity limits for congregational worship services were imposed from 2020 amid the pandemic. Muslims were advised against visits or gatherings to mark Hari Raya Aidilfitri, which fell on May 24, after circuit breaker restrictions were introduced that year.

Last year, celebrations were also muted as the holiday, which fell on May 13, took place amid a wave of Delta variant infections.