The Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs has urged Muslims to fast on Ashurah day in the month of Muharram, in pursuance of the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (sallallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam - blessings and peace of Allah be upon him). In a statement, the ministry reminds Muslims of fasting on Ashurah day.
According to the Holy Companion Ibn 'Abbas (radi-Allahu 'anhu), when the Holy Prophet, blessings and peace of Allah be upon him, migrated to Madinah, he found that the Jews there used to fast on the 10th day of Muharram.
There is a great reward for fasting on two days of Muharram - 9th and 10th.
There are many prophetic traditions that mention its virtues.
It is highly recommended to fast on these day, although not obligatory, the ministry said.