September 28, 2012

Australia allows livestock to Singapore for Korban ritual

Singapore's Muslim community will be able to perform the Korban ritual this year at some mosques, after Australia's Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry authorises livestock exports to the country.

Sixteen mosques in Singapore have cleared the audit with the Australian authorities.

In March, the Australian government implemented new regulations where livestock exporters have to meet internationally accepted animal welfare standards.

Dr Yaacob Ibrahim, Singapore Minister-in-Charge of Muslim Affairs, said: "I would like to give an assurance to our Australian friends that we'll do our very best to meet all the regulations in executing the Korban sacrifice this year.

"I hope all our mosques and officials involved in this exercise will continue to do so because we have to uphold the good name of not only Singapore, but the trust that the Australian government has given to us in order for us to import the livestock."

The Australian High Commission has welcomed the decision.

It said it understands the significance of the ritual for Singapore's Muslim community, and how important it is for the export of live animals from Australia to be approved in time for this year's Korban.

Singapore usually gets about 4,000 sheep and goats for the ritual every year from Australia.