Muslims to start Ramadan fasting tomorrow

Muslims here will begin fasting for the month of Ramadan on March 12, during which they will pay the compulsory zakat fitrah, or tithe, with its rate set at $5 or $7.70 per person.

- Agqil Hamzah

The rate remains unchanged from 2023, said the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis) in a statement on March 9. The rate was derived from the median price of 2.3kg of rice, the staple food in

Singapore. Those who consume a higher grade of rice than what is generally consumed by the Muslim community, such as basmati rice, may pay the higher rate.

Muis said its Fitrah Committee had concluded that the average price of each grade of rice was about the same as in 2023, adding that the committee also considered the higher cost of living expected in 2024 in its decision to maintain the same rates.

While Muslims can pay the zakat fitrah any time during the month of Ramadan, it must be paid before the morning of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, which is slated to fall on April 10.