Singapore shortens Friday sermons due to heat and haze

The Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura (MUIS) has announced a temporary reduction in the duration of Friday sermons (Khutbah Jumaat) starting August 21. This measure is intended to ensure the comfort of worshippers facing challenging weather conditions, including rising temperatures and the potential for haze.

Under the new arrangement, the first sermon, which typically spans six to seven pages, will be shortened to fewer than four pages. This policy will remain in effect until further notice. The decision follows reports of high temperatures in Singapore, with daily maximums expected to reach between 33 and 35 degrees Celsius. Additionally, there are concerns regarding haze caused by forest fires in Indonesia, which may affect air quality in the region.