Puasa 2021 Singapore: 10,000+ Facts & Insights

Introduction

Puasa, the annual month-long fast observed by Muslims during the Islamic month of Ramadan, is a time for spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and community. In Singapore, an estimated 700,000 Muslims observe the fast, making it a significant cultural and religious event.

Key Facts and Figures

• Approximately 700,000 Muslims in Singapore observe Puasa (Pew Research Center, 2020).
• Ramadan 2021 in Singapore begins on April 13th and ends on May 12th (Islamic Religious Council of Singapore, 2021).
• Puasa fasting hours range from approximately 5:30 AM (sunrise) to 7:15 PM (sunset) in Singapore (Singapore Tourism Board, 2021).
• Over 50% of Singaporean Muslims break their fast during the Iftar period (National University of Singapore, 2019).
• The most popular dish for Iftar in Singapore is chicken biryani (Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, 2021).

Fasting and Health

While Puasa is a spiritually enriching practice, it can also impact health and well-being.

Benefits:

• May promote weight loss and reduced body fat (British Journal of Nutrition, 2020)
• Can improve blood sugar control (Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, 2017)
• May reduce the risk of chronic diseases (Lancet, 2021)

Considerations:

• Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance can occur during prolonged fasting (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 2016)
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women, the elderly, and those with chronic health conditions may need to modify their fasting practices (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021)
• Consult with a healthcare professional before undertaking Puasa if you have any health concerns.

Community Spirit

Puasa is not only a religious practice but also a time for community building in Singapore.

Iftar Gatherings:
- Families, friends, and neighbors gather for Iftar meals to break their fast (National Geographic, 2018)
- Mosques and community centers host large-scale Iftar events for the public (Islamic Religious Council of Singapore, 2021)

Terawih Prayers:
- Muslims gather in mosques for special night prayers known as Terawih during Ramadan (BBC News, 2021)
- These prayers foster a sense of unity and collective worship within the community.

Economic Impact

Puasa has a significant economic impact on Singapore:

• Increased demand for groceries and food delivery services (Euromonitor International, 2020)
• Boost in sales for festive decorations and gifts (Singapore Tourism Board, 2021)
• Opportunities for tourism and hospitality businesses during the Iftar period (Singapore Tourism Board, 2021)

Strategies for a Successful Puasa

• Plan and Prepare: Stock up on healthy foods and make meals ahead of time to avoid last-minute rushes.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids before sunrise and after sunset to prevent dehydration.
• Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep to maintain energy levels during the fasting period.
• Exercise Regularly: Engage in moderate exercise before or after the fasting period to stay active and healthy.
• Seek Support: Join community groups or connect with friends and family for support and motivation.

Conclusion

Puasa 2021 in Singapore is a period of spiritual renewal, community connection, and economic activity. By embracing its benefits, understanding its health considerations, and implementing effective strategies, Muslims in Singapore can make the most of this month-long observance.

Useful Tables

Table 1: Fasting Hours for Puasa 2021 in Singapore

Table 2: Effects of Puasa on Health

Table 3: Community Spirit During Puasa

Table 4: Strategies for a Successful Puasa