Faishal Ibrahim Advocates for Muslim Community Concerns on Gaza

Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Faishal Ibrahim has reaffirmed his commitment to advocate for the concerns of the Muslim community regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza. In a media interview on August 27, 2023, marking his first 100 days in office, he emphasized the importance of addressing these concerns with the government.

Throughout his initial months, Faishal has engaged with many Singaporeans, particularly within the Malay-Muslim community, who are deeply affected by the situation in Gaza. “I will continue to bring up the concerns and feelings of the community to the government,” he stated. He noted that he maintains direct communication with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on these pressing issues, emphasizing the need for ongoing dialogue.

Government Stance on Gaza Conflict

In May, Prime Minister Wong made significant statements regarding the conflict, suggesting that Israel may be violating international law by restricting humanitarian aid to Gaza. His comments marked the strongest position taken by Singapore’s leadership to date on the issue. “Israel’s response has gone too far and its actions have caused a terrible humanitarian disaster,” Wong remarked, adding that the restrictions on humanitarian supplies were “completely unacceptable” and could represent a breach of international humanitarian law.

Faishal echoed similar sentiments, aligning with former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert’s assertion that Israel is committing war crimes in Gaza. When asked about reconciling the Muslim community’s concerns with Singapore’s broader stance, he emphasized that the government does not condone violence and seeks peace. “We want to make sure that the Palestinians also have lives of their own and have the opportunity to grow and develop themselves to their maximum potential,” he stated.

Framework for Malay-Muslim Organisations

Beyond foreign policy, Faishal discussed initiatives aimed at unifying Malay-Muslim organisations within Singapore. He acknowledged the desire among community members for a structured approach that would allow various organisations, regardless of size, to contribute equally to community development. “While some may be small, others are rich in history and may be able to contribute at a wide community setting,” he noted, expressing his commitment to creating a shared vision for the community.

Faishal also highlighted the importance of empowering informal community groups that can effectively connect with constituents and create a tangible impact. His focus areas include strengthening families, youth development, and supporting vulnerable groups, including ex-offenders. These ongoing intervention programmes are vital as he shapes his long-term vision for the community.

He introduced new political officeholders joining the Muslim Affairs team, including Mr. Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim, Dr. Wan Rizal, and former Nominated Member of Parliament Syed Harun. Zhulkarnain will take over from Faishal in promoting marriages and families, while Faishal will continue overseeing support for individuals affected by incarceration. Rahayu Mahzam and Dr. Harun will lead youth initiatives, with Rahayu also managing health-related portfolios.

Responding to inquiries about the absence of former Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Masagos Zulkifli, Faishal indicated that he maintains regular communication with him to share plans and gather feedback. “This is an opportunity for me to work with other MPs to continue the development of the Malay-Muslim community,” he added.

New Initiatives in Islamic Education

Faishal also discussed the upcoming Singapore College of Islamic Studies (SCIS), which was announced earlier this month during the National Day Rally. The college will be situated next to the new Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) campus in Rochor, offering full-time undergraduate degrees in Islamic Studies and Social Sciences. The college is set to welcome its first cohort of 60 students in 2028.

SCIS students will benefit from access to SUSS courses and shared campus facilities. Describing the college as an “aspiration” of the Malay-Muslim community, Faishal highlighted the enthusiasm surrounding the initiative. Academics and experts view SCIS as a significant addition to Singapore’s religious education landscape, enhancing both traditional and contemporary Islamic studies.

Through these various initiatives, Faishal Ibrahim aims to foster a cohesive and empowered Malay-Muslim community in Singapore while ensuring that their voices are heard in matters of national importance, such as the Gaza conflict.