DPM Heng Swee Keat emphasizes Singapore’s approach to religious harmony and the role of fatwa in guiding diverse communities.

Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies, Heng Swee Keat, delivered a speech at the 2nd Conference on Fatwa in Contemporary Societies on 2 February 2024. The conference welcomed religious scholars, policymakers, and interfaith leaders from around the world.

DPM Heng Swee Keat highlighted Singapore’s commitment to maintaining social harmony in the face of a rapidly changing and divisive global landscape. He stressed the importance of understanding and balancing civic and religious identities for the well-being of society.

Singapore, known for its multiculturalism, has successfully nurtured a diverse society where various religious communities, including Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, Taoists, Hindus, Sikhs, Jews, Jains, Zoroastrians, and Baha’is, coexist harmoniously. The nation actively safeguards this harmony through laws and institutions such as the Administration of Muslim Law Act (AMLA) and the Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act.

DPM Heng Swee Keat emphasized the proactive measures taken to address challenges posed by online platforms, enacted through the Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act in 2019. He highlighted the role of institutions like the President Council for Minority Rights in upholding the interests of minority communities.

The Deputy Prime Minister acknowledged the importance of religious leaders in shaping societal norms and behaviors. He commended the Inter-Religious Organisation (IRO), where leaders from 10 religions have fostered mutual respect and understanding for 75 years.

DPM Heng Swee Keat lauded Singapore’s Muslim community as a “Community of Success,” actively contributing to the nation’s social and economic development. He highlighted the role of Muslim religious leaders in guiding the community through challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the Israel-Hamas war.

The Deputy Prime Minister shared Singapore’s approach to religious matters, recognizing faith as a positive force for society. He emphasized the need for trust among different ethnicities and religions to build a cohesive society where every community feels it belongs.

Source – PMO