Three focus areas in efforts to build a stronger future for Malay/Muslim community

To build a stronger future for Singapore’s Malay/Muslim community, efforts will be focused on three areas in the coming years, said Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Faishal Ibrahim.

- Zhaki Abdullah Correspondent

Among these are improving social and economic outcomes for Malay/Muslims here, and supporting the community in practising its faith in a multicultural society, he said during the debate on the President’s address in Parliament on Sept 23.

The third is to preserve and celebrate the richness of Malay arts, culture and heritage, Associate Professor Faishal said, adding that the efforts of Malay/Muslim MPs to support the community will be focused on these areas.

To chart a stronger future for the community while contributing to the Republic’s multiracial and multi-religious society, Prof Faishal said he would deepen the collaborations between the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis), self-help group Mendaki and the People’s Association Malay Activity Executive Committees Council, Malay/Muslim and Indian/Muslim organisations, and the Government.

“As the Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs, | hope to build on the good work of my predecessors and fellow community leaders,” he said.

Prof Faishal, who was appointed to the role in May, identified four focus areas to improve social and economic outcomes ~ nurturing strong families, investing in children and young people, equipping workers to seize growth opportunities, and supporting seniors in ageing with dignity.

With efforts to strengthen marriages making progress, and the number of Muslim divorces falling by 30 per cent between 2019 and 2023, more will be done in this area, he said.

The enrolment of children into preschool will also be encouraged, in addition to efforts to sustain their attendance, said Prof Faishal, who is also Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs.