Religious harmony still fragile but S'pore in better position to deal with such issues: Faishal Ibrahim

Singapore's social fabric and religious harmony remain fragile, but the country is in a relatively better position than other countries in dealing with religious incidents, Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Faishal Ibrahim said on Sept 27.

- Shabana Begum Correspondent

charge of Muslim Affairs Faishal Ibrahim speaking at Singapore Expo on Sept 27. On the pork parcel case, he said that those who have reached out to express concern, support and solidarity "share the same sense of anger and rejection of such unacceptable actions".

(ST PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI)

"There will be people from other communities who will look out for each and every one of us. Singapore has been making efforts to develop a cohesive community over the past six decades, and we have come so far," said Associate Professor Faishal.

His remarks came after a man was charged over his suspected involvement in sending out a parcel containing a piece of pork to Al-Istiqamah Mosque on Sept 24.

The incident sparked deep concern among various religious groups, who stood by the Muslim community to condemn the act.

Reactions from the Muslim community and other groups over the past few days have shown that social cohesion is worth protecting, while it remains a work in progress, said Prof Faishal, who is also Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs.

Those who have reached out to express concern, support and solidarity "share the same sense of anger and rejection of such unacceptable actions", he added.

He was speaking to the media on the sidelines of an event at the Singapore Expo aimed at helping Muslims plan their wills and transfer wealth in accordance with Islamic principles.

On Sept 27, Bill Tan Keng Hwee, 61, was charged with deliberately intending to harm the racial feelings of a person.

Court documents showed that Tan had allegedly mailed an envelope addressed to the mosque in Serangoon North, containing a piece of pork and a note which read "halal BaBi chop".