Initiatives to Strengthen Local Korban Arrangements

1651. Mr Fadli Fawzi: To ask the Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs (a) how will MUIS strengthen efforts to support korban operators in obtaining the necessary export permits in future years to prevent disruptions to the korban ritual; and (b) what lessons were learnt from the disruptions to this year’s korban ritual.

Response:

1. MUIS has reviewed the recent incident of disruption to korban caused by The Meat Brothers’ inability to fulfil its commitments with industry partners and the Singapore Food Agency (SFA). It will implement three measures to strengthen the current operating model and better support local korban operators.

2. First, MUIS will strengthen the oversight of local korban operators’ operational readiness, particularly for new operators. MUIS will also work more closely with korban operators to ensure necessary regulatory approvals are attained in a timely manner, and to monitor crucial milestones for korban operations.

3. Second, MUIS will introduce stronger contractual and operational requirements for korban operators, such as clearer service standards, contingency plans, and obligations, to rectify any shortfalls should they become unable to fulfil the korban operations. This will strengthen overall accountability and operational resilience, as well as ensure that korban participants are better informed and protected.

4. Third, MUIS will start preparations for local korban earlier. Currently, mosques and vendors providing korban services are engaged two to three months before Hari Raya Haji. MUIS will increase the lead time to six to eight months, to provide additional runway for regulatory approvals and operational planning.

5. MUIS will continue to monitor the effectiveness of the above measures and make further adjustments as necessary. The Government is fully committed to working closely with all stakeholders, to ensure that local korban arrangements continue to meet the needs of the Muslim community.