Singapore’s mosques will remain open for daily and Friday congregational prayers as haze conditions persist, but worship arrangements and outdoor activities may change if air quality deteriorates further.
The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) announced on Oct 12 that it is strengthening haze preparedness measures across mosques, full-time madrasahs and mosque-based kindergartens to protect worshippers, students, staff and volunteers.
The measures are aligned with national health advisories and the Government’s broader haze response as Singapore continues to monitor air quality.
Mosques to Remain Open, but Outdoor Programmes May Be Suspended
MUIS said mosques will continue to accommodate daily and Friday prayers with appropriate precautions in place.
However, if the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reaches the very unhealthy range of 201 to 300, mosques will suspend non-essential outdoor programmes and activities.
Prayer arrangements may also be adjusted depending on the severity of the haze, available indoor facilities and prevailing health advisories.
All mosques have received preparedness guidelines outlining precautionary measures for different PSI levels. Additional safeguards are being introduced to protect more vulnerable congregants, particularly older people and those with pre-existing health conditions.
Elderly Worshippers Urged to Take Extra Precautions
MUIS is encouraging congregants to minimise prolonged exposure to outdoor haze.
Elderly worshippers and people with existing health conditions have been advised to take additional precautions, including wearing suitable masks when attending prayers, in line with national health guidance.
The Ministry of Health has noted that the health effects of haze depend on air quality, the duration and intensity of exposure, and a person’s underlying health. People with chronic heart or lung conditions may face greater risks.
Madrasahs and Mosque-Based Kindergartens Also Affected
The preparedness measures extend to Islamic religious schools and kindergartens operating within mosques.
Full-time madrasahs have been advised to follow haze-management guidance from the Ministry of Education, while mosque-based kindergartens are expected to comply with relevant advisories from the Early Childhood Development Agency.
Possible measures include modifying or limiting outdoor activities, making suitable indoor arrangements and monitoring the well-being of students and staff.
Parents will be informed if changes to school activities or arrangements become necessary.
MUIS to Monitor Conditions as Haze Situation Develops
MUIS said it will continue monitoring the situation and coordinating with relevant government agencies as conditions evolve.
The measures may be reviewed or adjusted according to air quality readings and updated national health advisories.
For worshippers and families, the key message is that religious services are continuing for now, but precautions may become stricter if the haze worsens. Congregants are encouraged to follow updates from their mosques and take extra care if they are particularly vulnerable to poor air quality.
