Prince Harry eats with Muslim community breaking their Ramadan fast hours after the London attacks

The INSIDER Summary

• Prince Harry broke the Ramadan fast with a Muslim community in Singapore.
• Hours beforehand, the London attacks took place.
• Leaders of the community addressed the atrocities and Prince Harry bowed his head down the whole time.
• The young royal was visiting Singapore to raise awareness for his charity work with HIV/AIDS. 

Prince Harry was today photographed head bowed during the Muslim call to prayer breaking the Ramadan fast with youngsters in Singapore.

The prince ate porridge - bubur - and dates to mark the end of the month long period of fasting and reflection at 7:11 pm at sunset locally.

Before the symbolic moment at the Jamiyah Singapore centre - coming just hours after the London terror attacks - one of the teachers spoke on stage of the atrocity.

Muhammad Rafiuddin Ismail Secretary General, "Our thoughts go out to the families of the victims of the London terror attack last night. Let peace and harmony prevail in communities all over the world."

Harry kept his head bowed throughout the comment.

The idea for Harry taking part in the iftar was agreed mutually well ahead of his whistle-stop trip to Singapore and Australia.

"We asked the question and they were delighted that he would take part," said Scott Wightman, British High Commissioner to Singapore said.

When Harry - who flew in yesterday by commercial flight - arrived at the British High Commission earlier today for an AIDS charity reception the Union Flag was flying at half mast in recognition of the terror atrocity in London.

He watched volunteer Azib Mohdar being tested for HIV/AIDS as part of the Action for AIDS event.

Later Harry received a traditional welcome at Jamiyah Singapore - a Muslim community social services charity - of flower petals and ten hand drummers, a customary way to mark celebrations.

Once the sun started setting, Harry joined eighty young people for a traditional iftar. 

After the fast was broken Harry sat at a number of tables and chatted to guests about the celebration.

Dr. Mohd Hasbi Abu Bakar, President of Jamiyah Singapore said, "Ramadan is a time of reflection, for spending time with family and friends while giving support to those who are less fortunate.

"We are honoured that Prince Harry was able to join us for this iftar and to meet with the young people that are part of the Jamiyah Singapore community," he added.

British High Commissioner Scott Wightman said, "Prince Harry being here raises awareness for the work that is being done with HIV/AIDS and help de-stigmatise the issue."

Mr. Wightman added, "We are delighted the prince could stop in Singapore on route to Australia and spend time and support some of the global themes he is engaged."

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