Hari Raya Haji (“great day of the haj” in Malay) is one of two major Muslim festivals celebrated in Singapore and the rest of the world, with the other being Hari Raya Puasa. Also known as Eid al-Adha or the Great Day of Sacrifice, this festival falls on the 10th day of Zulhijjah (the 12th month in the Islamic calendar). This year it falls on June 7th, 2025.
Hari Raya Haji is celebrated to mark the end of the Muslim pilgrimage, known as the haj. All able-bodied Muslims are encouraged to undertake this pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime.
differences between Hari Raya Puasa and Haji
Hari Raya Puasa, which was commemorated on March 31st this year, marks a celebratory occasion after a month of fasting, also known as Ramadan. To celebrate this festival, Muslims wear new traditional clothes such as the Baju Kurung for females, and Baju Melayu for males. Throughout this celebration, they visit relatives, feast on traditional Malay food, and hand out sealed green envelopes with money inside, known as duit raya or “Raya money” to children and elders.
In comparison, Hari Raya Haji is focused on self-reflection and a time for counting one’s blessings. Fasting for Hari Raya Haji is usually done only on the eve of the festival (known as Wukuf) and is not compulsory. On the day itself, Muslims gather in mosques for special prayers before carrying out the korban. Korban refers to the Islamic ritual of slaughtering farm animals, such as sheep and lambs, followed by the distribution of the meat to worshippers and the needy.
impact on relocation
While this event marks a public holiday in Singapore, most retail shops and grocery outlets will remain open. However, offices, selected businesses, and local authorities will be closed on Hari Raya Haji. Assignees relocating to Singapore during this period should be prepared for potential delays in some services, such as immigration and moving services.
The Cartus team wishes Selamat Hari Raya Haji to all who celebrate!
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