City Mosques Gearing Up For Aidiladha Sacrificial Ritual

KUALA LUMPUR, June 6 (Bernama) -- As worshippers flock home for Hari Raya Aidiladha, which falls tomorrow, mosque management teams across the capital are gearing up for the sacrificial ritual.

Every detail, from logistics to personnel involved, is thoroughly examined to ensure the ritual is carried out smoothly and in compliance with religious requirements.

Imam of Masjid Negara (National Mosque) Mohd Nadzri Mustakim said that they prioritise the health of staff members involved in the process to ensure a smooth and safe slaughter ritual.

“…we designate spots to carry out the slaughtering, maintain the tools, obtain permits for cattle and goats, and clean the surrounding areas. The main prayer hall has also been prepared to accommodate the congregants,” he told Bernama.

Mohd Nadzri stated that the management strives to adhere to the standard operating procedures set by the religious authorities, including the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM).

He said the sacrificial ritual at Masjid Negara will be carried out over two days, with 19 goats and sheep to be slaughtered after the special prayer tomorrow, while 10 cattle will be sacrificed on Sunday starting at 8 am.

Masjid Amru Ibni Al-‘As in Bandar Baru Sentul, near here, is set to slaughter 10 cattle, specially ordered from Kelantan, according to its Imam, Zulfahmi Samsudin.

He said the mosque management has set up teams to ensure the smooth running of the sacrificial ritual, including a technical team in collaboration with Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and other agencies. 

He added that the mosque will host a feast tonight to celebrate congregants observing the fast in conjunction with Wukuf Day. 

Meanwhile, city folk are bustling with Aidiladha preparations, thronging public markets as early as 6 am to purchase ingredients for cooking festive dishes.

Azhar Salleh, 60, a coconut milk trader at Dato Keramat market, said his stall began operating at 2 am today instead of 8 am to facilitate his customers.

Civil servant Noraini Gafar, 38, who had taken leave to prepare for tomorrow, said she and her daughter arrived early at the market, but there was already a large crowd.

“It was crowded, but I was relieved to find that the items I needed were still available,” she said.

-- BERNAMA