Religion in Singapore is a diverse mix, as people from all over the world live here. Its skyline boasts the distinctive minarets of mosques, spires of gothic cathedrals, intricate figurines of Hindu temples, and distinctive roof architecture of Chinese temples. Within the Chinese population of Singapore, Buddhism and Taoism are the most prevalent religions followed. 

Islam is another religion found in Singapore. Islam adherents number roughly 15% of the population, which is predominately Malays, although there have been many converts among the Indian, Chinese and other communities. 12% of the population is Christian, with Protestants outnumbering Roman Catholics. 88% of the Christian faith is Chinese. Hinduism accounts for about 4% of the population, most of which are Indian in descent. 

Temples are the places of worship for a variety of religions in Singapore -Hindu, Buddhist, Shentoist and Taoist. Many have survived intact for well over 100 years, and most celebrate colourful festivals at different times of the year. 

Sri Mariamman Temple
This magnificent temple at 244 South Bridge Road is Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple. There was a wood and attap temple on the site by 1827 and the original brick bones of the present building were built around 1843. Since then, there have been many additions, with a profusion of deities being carved all over its walls, its doors bedecked with bells and frescoes added to the ceilings.
The fire-walking festival, Thimithi, is celebrated here.

Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Temple
Spread over a hillside, this recently built complex of Buddhist temples at 88 Bright Hill Drive, is one of largest worshipping in Singapore. The Buildings feature fine examples of Chinese decorations, statues and shrine.
A large turtle pool, peaceful gardens and the constant hum of prayer add to the air of tranquility.

Temple of 1,000 Lights
A 15-mt high statue of Buddha, surrounded by a seemingly endless chain of lights, is the focal point of this simple but impressive building at 366 Race Course Road. A fresco at the base of the statue depicts important events in Buddha’s life. 

Central Sikh Temple 
The chief place of worship for Singapore’s 15,000 Sikhs, the temples architecture is a skiIlful blend of modern and traditional. The Granth Sahib, or holy book, is enshrined in a magnificent prayer hail which has a l3-metre wide dome.

Singapore’s churches and cathedrals were built well before the turn of the century and many are still used today as places of worship. Visitors are reminded to observe proper etiquette, particularly when a service is being held.

St. Andrew’s Cathedral
Built between 1856 and 1861, St Andrew’s Cathedral was erected on the site of an earlier church which was twice struck by lightning. Designed by Colonel Ronald MacPherson and built by Indian convict labour, its glossy white exterior results from the use of Madras Chunam, a mixture of shell lime, egg white and sugar. 

Cathedral of the Good Shepherd
Completed in 1846, the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd in Queen Street was designed by Dennis McSwiney, formerly a clerk to George Coleman. Its tower and spire were added a year later by Charles Dyce. 

Singapore’s many mosques are easily recognisable by their distinctive minarets and domes. Visitors should leave their footwear at the door, women must not be dressed in shorts or revealing dresses and only men are allowed into the main prayer hall. 

Abdul Gaffoor Mosque
Tucked away from the bustle of Little India, this mosque, at ‘41 Dunlop Street, was completed in 1910 to replace a more modest building. Of particular interest is the Framed family tree to the left of the prayer area which traces the Muslim prophets.

Nagore Durgha Shrine
This shrine, in Telok Ayer Street, was completed in 1830 by Southern Indian Muslims, the land being granted on condition that it not be used for a wooden or attap building. It has a unique blend of Classical and Indian-Muslim motifs. 

Events

In Singapore a number of festivals and events are celebrated. Chinese, Hindu and Muslim celebrations follow a lunar calendar so dates of festivities vary from year to year.

Chinese New Year, in January or February, is welcomed in with dragon dances, parades and much good cheer. Chinatown is lit up and there are fireworks and night markets.


During Ramadan, food stalls are set up in the evening in the Arab St district, near the Sultan Mosque. Hari Raya Puasa, the end of Ramadan in January or February, is marked by three days of joyful celebrations.

Vesak Day in April or May celebrates Buddha's birth, enlightenment and death. It is marked by various events, including the release of caged birds to symbolise the setting free of captive souls.

The Dragon Boat Festival, held in May or June, commemorates the death of a Chinese saint who drowned himself as a protest against government corruption. It is celebrated with boat races across Marina Bay. The Festival of the Hungry Ghosts is usually celebrated in September. This is when the souls of the dead are released for feasting and entertainment on earth. Chinese operas are performed for them and food is offered, the ghosts eat the spirit of the food but thoughtfully leave the substance for the mortal celebrants.

The festival of Thaipusam is one of the most dramatic Hindu festivals and is now banned in India. Devotees honour Lord Subramaniam with acts of amazing body-piercing masochism - definitely not for the week hearted people.

In Singapore, devotees march in procession from the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple on Serangoon Rd to the Chettiar Hindu Temple on Tank Rd. The festival is based on the lunar calendar but will be held in October for the next couple of years.

Festivals and Public Holidays

Being a multi-racial society, Singapore celebrates a number of major festivals, including the Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Puasa, Deepavali, and Christmas. These festivals are usually celebrated by all Singaporeans, regardless of race or religion. In multi-racial harmony, friends of different races/religions visit each other during these festivals.