Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura

Friday Sermon

13 February 2026 / 25 Syaaban 1447H

Arrival of Ramadan – The Importance of Preparation

Zumratal mukminin rahimakumullah,

Let us increase our taqwa towards Allah s.w.t. by obeying all His commands and avoiding all His prohibitions. Do not be deceived by the assumption that tomorrow is guaranteed for us. For the only certainty in this life is death.

Dear respected congregation,

The month of Ramadan is fast approaching. Perhaps this may be our last Ramadan. Therefore, let us not waste this opportunity. Let us welcome Ramadan with spiritual and physical preparation, guided by sincere intentions. This is the focus of today’s khutbah: How prepared are we to welcome the arrival of Ramadan?

As Muslims, we are constantly reminded to prepare ourselves. Allah s.w.t. says in Surah al-Hashr, verse 18:

Which means: “O you who have believed, fear Allah. And let every soul look to what it has put forth for tomorrow - and fear Allah. Indeed, Allah is Aware of what you do.”

Dear brothers,

Is it already too late for us to prepare? How can we still prepare ourselves before Ramadan arrives? Today’s khutbah highlights two important matters for us to reflect upon.

First: Do Not Procrastinate

We often wait for Ramadan to increase our acts of worship and abandon bad habits. However, we must not continue to delay. If death comes before we meet Ramadan, will “waiting for Ramadan” as an excuse benefit us when we stand before Allah?

Indeed, it is inappropriate for us to postpone repentance and self-improvement, while placing our hopes on an uncertain tomorrow.

Therefore, let us begin from this very moment. Improve our prayers. Strengthen our connection with Allah s.w.t. Take time to read and reflect upon the Quran. Strive to abandon bad habits and poor character.

Brothers, preparation for Ramadan does not begin with the sighting of the new moon. It begins with the changes we make today.

Remember, Ramadan is not merely a month of worship. It is a spiritual and moral training for the rest of lives. Our goal is to nurture lasting transformation, not temporary motivation.

Second: Identify Clear Plans and Goals

Set clear targets and plan wisely. Ramadan is limited, and its time is extremely precious. Let us ask ourselves now: Do we not want to become more careful in our speech? Do we hope to better control our desires during times of hardship and ease?

What are our spiritual goals in this blessed month? Do we aim to pray in congregation more frequently at the mosque or with our families? Do we hope to complete the recitation of the Qur’an? Do we wish to practice qiyamullail? More importantly, how can we achieve these goals?

At the same time, consider how we can balance worship with our daily responsibilities – towards our families, work, and excellence in our studies. Clear planning will help us remain focused, consistent, and steadfast throughout Ramadan.

My dear brothers,

Ramadan is a month of blessings and forgiveness. The doors of mercy are wide open, and sins are forgiven for those who repent sincerely. It would be a great loss if we were to let this opportunity pass without planning and without achieving real change.

Therefore, let us strive earnestly to prepare ourselves, so that this Ramadan becomes the best Ramadan of our lives. May Allah grant us the opportunity to meet Ramadan and benefit from it in the best way.

Second Sermon