Defence Minister: No Banquets Allowed For Hari Raya Aidiladha

Among the SOPs announced during the press conference today, 27 July, were the sacrifice rites, which can only be conducted within the compounds of mosques, suraus, or areas permitted by the relevant religious authorities.

He added that only a maximum of 10 animals are permitted at a single sacrifice rite, but it is also dependent on how spacious the venue is.

"If the venue is spacious enough to fit 10 animals, then 10 animals can be there. If the venue is small and can only fit six animals, then only six animals can be there," said the Senior Minister.

Hari Raya Aidiladha, also known as Hari Raya Haji, is celebrated on 31 July this year. The celebration is to commemorate the sacrifices made by Prophet Ibrahim, who demonstrated immense faith when he was put to the test by God.

During the sacrifice rite, four-legged animals, such as lambs, goats, cows, bulls, and camels will be sacrificed by members of the Islamic faith.

"If there are five animals, then 100 people are allowed to be there. If there are 10 animals, then 200 people are allowed," the Defence Minister said, adding that the number of permitted attendees is inclusive of religious leaders and those who are on duty.

Every attendee must wear a face mask and practise social distancing. The venue must provide hand sanitisers as well.

While it is possible for members of the public to conduct sacrifice rites at slaughterhouses after receiving the relevant permits, Ismail said the government discourages the arrangement.

"People who have been working since morning on the day of the celebration are allowed to eat packaged food, but the usual banquets that are held after the sacrifice rites are not allowed to be conducted," he said.

Mosques and suraus can celebrate Hari Raya Aidiladha for four days, but the government discourages members of the public from celebrating after the first day.

He said each house can only have 20 people at a time.

If a number of guests have left the premise, the house owner can welcome another group of guests as long as the total number of attendees does not exceed 20.

However, Ismail said households with persons under surveillance (PUS) or those under Home Surveillance Order (HSO) are not allowed to welcome any guests, let alone attend the rites.

Interstate travel is still permitted during this period as long as they follow the SOPs, reported New Straits Times.

He urged Malaysians to adhere to these SOPs during the celebration to prevent COVID-19 infections from re-emerging in the community.