Disruption to Korban Arrangements: Options for Affected Participants

As the Muslim community prepares for the upcoming observance of Hari Raya Haji, scheduled for May 27, 2026, a logistical challenge has emerged regarding the ritual of korban. Local supplier The Meat Brothers (TMB) has announced that it will be unable to import the necessary livestock from Australia in time for the annual slaughter, citing delays in receiving required export approvals from Australian authorities.

Understanding the Situation

The korban ritual involves the slaughter of livestock, such as sheep and lambs, with the meat subsequently distributed to worshippers and the needy. On May 23, 2026, The Meat Brothers confirmed that, given the current circumstances, it has become clear the livestock will not arrive in Singapore in time for the scheduled rituals. This development follows a statement from the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) on May 21, 2026, which noted that the pending export permits would lead to delays for several mosques.

The disruption is expected to involve approximately 400 sheep. The affected locations include:

• Al-Firdaus Mosque
• Petempatan Melayu Sembawang Mosque
• Pusara Aman Mosque
• Jamae Chulia Mosque (partially affected)

Available Alternatives for Participants

To assist those who have already made arrangements for korban, The Meat Brothers is contacting affected participants to offer alternative solutions. Individuals may choose from the following options:

• Full Refund: Participants may opt to cancel their arrangements and receive their money back in full.
• Overseas Slaughter in Australia: Participants may choose to have the korban performed in Australia, with the resulting meat shipped directly to them.
• Overseas Slaughter in Indonesia: Participants may choose to have the korban performed in Medan, Indonesia.

Key Takeaways

• Event Timing: Hari Raya Haji is set for May 27, 2026.
• Scope of Impact: Approximately 400 sheep are affected, impacting specific mosques across Singapore.
• Next Steps: The supplier is currently reaching out to affected Sohibul Korban to facilitate refunds or redirected slaughter arrangements.

The community is encouraged to remain patient as these logistical adjustments are processed. Those who had planned to participate in the korban through the affected supplier should monitor communications from the organization to confirm their preferred alternative.