Islamic New Year in Brunei
Islamic New Year begins on 1 Muharram, the first day of the Hijri year. In Brunei, it is a public holiday, and official observances have included prayers and gatherings at mosques and other places of worship across the country.[1][2]
Meaning of the day
The new year recalls the Hijrah, the Prophet Muhammad’s migration from Mecca to Medina. Brunei’s Ministry of Religious Affairs describes this event as the occasion remembered at the start of the Hijri year.[2]
The ministry has also used the name Ilal Hijrah for the country’s observance. It explains the phrase as “towards migration” and connects it with striving for a better life and personal change.[3]
How it is observed
Ministry notices describe gatherings at mosques, suraus and balai ibadat, with main venues in each of Brunei’s four districts. A central part of the programme is the recitation of prayers for the end of the old Hijri year and the beginning of the new one.[2][3]
Official programmes have also included religious talks and other community events. The details can vary, so visitors who want to attend a gathering should check local announcements for its venue and schedule.[3]
Public holiday and employee leave
Brunei’s Employment Act lists the first day of Hijriah among the public holidays. It provides that employees within the Act’s scope are entitled to a paid holiday at their gross rate of pay.[1]
The Act allows an employer and employee to agree to substitute another day. If a public holiday falls on an employee’s rest day, the next working day is a paid holiday; if it falls on a day the employee is not required to work, the employer may pay for it or provide a substitute day.[1]
Planning around the holiday
The date follows 1 Muharram, so its Gregorian date changes from year to year. Check opening hours with individual shops, banks and transport providers before making plans.[1]
Frequently asked questions
Is Islamic New Year a public holiday in Brunei?
Yes. The Employment Act includes the first day of Hijriah in its public holiday schedule.[1]
When is Islamic New Year observed?
It falls on 1 Muharram, the first day of the Hijri year. Its Gregorian date changes each year.[1]
Are employees entitled to the day off?
Employees within the scope of the Employment Act are entitled to a paid holiday. The Act also sets out substitution arrangements for rest days and days an employee is not required to work.[1]
What happens if an employee is required to work?
The Act allows an employer to require work on a public holiday and sets out additional pay for that work. An employer and employee may also agree to substitute another day.[1]
What do people do for Islamic New Year in Brunei?
Are shops, banks and transport services closed?
Shops, banks and transport providers set their own hours, so check with them before you travel.
Sources and references
Sources used for Islamic New Year in Brunei:
- LAWS OF BRUNEI: Employment, Chapter 278- Attorney General’s Chambers, Brunei Darussalam
- MAJLIS BACAAN DOA AKHIR TAHUN DAN AWAL TAHUN HIJRAH 1447 PERINGKAT NEGARA- Ministry of Religious Affairs, Brunei Darussalam
- SAMBUTAN ILAL HIJRAH 1445- Ministry of Religious Affairs, Brunei Darussalam