Supply of Sheep for Korban for Hari Raya Haji

Mr Zaqy Mohamad asked the Minister for Information, Communications and the Arts and Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs (a) whether MUIS plans to consider alternative sources of sheep for the annual korban ritual for Hari Raya Haji to ensure that participation remains affordable to ordinary Muslim citizens; (b) whether MUIS will consider tiering the procurement of sheep by allowing part of the supply to revert to sea-borne transport for citizens seeking cheaper alternatives; (c) whether the recent requirement by Australia has resulted in any increase in korban costs; and (d) whether increases in our korban prices have resulted in more Singaporeans performing their korban ritual overseas.

Assoc Prof Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: Korban is a key religious ritual observed by the Muslim community every year. We currently import the animals for this purpose from Australia.

Prior to 2009, all livestock for korban were imported via sea-freight. However, following the late delivery of livestock for korban in 2005, the Singapore Mosques Korban Committee decided to use air freight as mode of delivery for korban livestock. Although the cost of air freight is more expensive, it provides greater certainty that the livestock will arrive in Singapore in time for korban as well as mitigates unforeseen risks due to inclement weather conditions that are inherent in sea-freight delivery.

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With effect from 1 September 2012, Australian exporters seeking a permit to export livestock to Singapore must comply with the new regulatory framework known as the Exporter Supply Chain Assurance System. It is likely that the costs of korban will increase this year due to the need to comply with the stringent requirements for korban facilities and equipment as well as the cost of engaging auditors to conduct performance audit during korban .

The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) and MUIS are exploring alternative sources for livestock imports for future korbans . However, we need to consider various factors, such as whether the alternative sources meet our animal health and veterinary public health requirements and transport options.

Korban is an act of charity for those with the means to do so. It can be performed in Singapore or overseas. Many Singaporeans have been performing korban overseas in the past and many will continue to do so in the future. However, we will continue to work with the relevant authorities to ensure our mosques can continue to provide korban services for those who wish to perform korban locally.