Why we shouldn't let Noor Deros bring race, religion into politics

Recent remarks by a self-styled religious teacher, seeking to be an influencer in this general election, worry me.

- Melvinderpal Singh

Noor Deros may not be a name familiar to many. By way of background, he was the Muslim religious teacher who started the Wear White movement in 2014, a pushback on the Pink Dot rallies.

Two years later, it was led by a Christian pastor, who argued that the movement was about promoting traditional family values.

Mr Noor denied his involvement in the campaign that year, saying he was focusing on education. But he is back, this time bringing his views on Islam into the political sphere, arguing that these should shape who Malay/Muslim Singaporeans vote for.

He draws a clear line in the sand. He says Muslims should vote only for candidates who agree with his interpretation of religious responsibilities.

Among other things, he says the candidates should not advocate for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community.

Writing his posts in a mix of Malay and English, he also says Muslims should support only the political party and candidate who agree to end diplomatic ties with Israel over the Palestine-Israel war, and change the narrative on the war on terror to blame the United States and Israel for their role in conflicts in the region.

He writes like an academic, peppering his comments with religious passages to remind his followers of their responsibilities. But the postings are inflammatory—there is no room for compromise, he says.

While he speaks of seeking out people willing to sit down for a debate or discussion, he makes it clear he will not budge. Mr Noor is now bringing his views into the political sphere in the midst of a general election.

It is by design.