Singapore Muslim Religious Council
Introduction
The Singapore Muslim Religious Council, known officially as the Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura (MUIS), serves as the apex Islamic religious authority in Singapore. It was established under the Administration of Muslim Law Act in 1966 and began operations in 1968. The Council holds a pivotal role in shaping and maintaining the religious life and welfare of the Muslim community in Singapore.
- Arabic: المجلس الديني للمسلمين في سنغافورة (Al-Majlis Al-Deeni lil-Muslimeen fee Singafura)
- Turkish: Singapur Müslüman Din Konseyi
Roles and Responsibilities
The Singapore Muslim Religious Council has an array of responsibilities aimed at fostering the spiritual and social well-being of the Muslim community in Singapore:
Advising the Government
One of the Council’s primary functions is to advise the Singapore Government on matters relating to Islam. This includes input on educational policies, religious observances, and the general welfare of the Muslim population.
Administration of Mosques and Endowments
MUIS administers a comprehensive mosque-building program to ensure adequate facilities for worship. It also manages ongoing operations and maintenance of mosques and oversees endowment (wakaf) properties that provide services contributing to the religious and civic life of Muslims.
Pilgrimage Coordination
The Council coordinates the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, ensuring that pilgrims from Singapore receive appropriate guidance and support during the significant religious journey.
Legal and Social Services
Forms an Appeals Board
MUIS forms an appeals board that handles inheritance disputes and divorce proceedings according to Islamic law (Shariah). This board adjudicates family law cases, supporting Muslims in matters that require religious contextual knowledge alongside legal expertise.
Etymology and Translation
- Etymology: The term “Majlis” (مجلس) in Arabic denotes a council or assembly, “Ugama” (religious matters), “Islam,” denoting the Muslim faith, and “Singapura,” the Malay name for Singapore.
- Turkish Translation: Singapur Müslüman Din Konseyi combines the words for “Singapore” (Singapur), “Muslim” (Müslüman), “Religion” (Din), and “Council” (Konsey).
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Islamic Law in Modern States” by Christian Vogel and Robert Gleave
- “The Administration of Muslim Law in Singapore” by J.Sanitha Zaobaidy S.
- “Islam, State and Politics in Singapore” by Kamaludeen Mohamed Nasir
Takeaways and Conclusion
The Singapore Muslim Religious Council holds a critical role in structuring the everyday and religious life of Muslims in Singapore. From its early establishment in 1966 to its current standing as an influential body, it continues to support and maintain Islamic tradition and law within the multicultural framework of Singaporean society. This council’s comprehensive sphere of influence ensures that religious, legal, and social dimensions of Islam are meticulously aligned with both community needs and legal requirements.
In conclusion, MUIS exemplifies a successful integration of religious governance within a secular state, ensuring that the religious practices and needs of Muslims are both preserved and respected.
By understanding the multifaceted roles and historical underpinnings of the Singapore Muslim Religious Council, readers can appreciate how such religious bodies navigate complex socio-religious landscapes to serve their communities effectively.
