Afraid of radicalism, Singapore Muslims call for religious teachers' registration

August 21, 2016 08:52

Singapore's Malay-Muslim community leaders have called for stricter norms for registration of religious teachers amid growing concerns over radicalisation in the country, media reports said.

The leaders want all Asatizah (Islamic preachers) to be registered with the Asatizah Recognition Scheme, started in 2005 to help Muslims to assess and recognise qualified religious teachers, The Sunday Times reported.

According to media reports, this was discussed during a closed-door dialogue yesterday between Malay-Muslim leaders, Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Yaacob Ibrahim and Minister for Environment and Water Resources Masagos Zulkifli as part of regular engagements with the community.

About 80 per cent of Muslim religious teachers are currently accredited under the scheme, which is run by the Asatizah Recognition Board and Singapore Islamic Scholars and Religious Teachers Association.

Many community leaders said making the scheme mandatory would be a progressive and pro-active step.

« Back to LIVE

TOP STORIES

Isn't Kriti Simply Flawless?

The 'love' of Pulkit Samrat's world, Kriti Kharbanda will floor you with her beautiful wardrobe.

Another Record For Dhoni

M S Dhoni is the first player to take 150 catches in IPL history.

6 Natural Ways to Keep Your Body Cool

Wearing white and lighter colours will prevent heat retention, thus reducing the risk of heat exhaustion, suggests Dr Karthiyayini Mahadevan.

Losing tosses doesn't matter, winning games does: Iyer

Iyer lost his eighth toss in 11 games but that did not a have bearing on the team's performance as KKR amassed 235 for six after being put in to bat by Lucknow Super Giants.

Misa Bharti Opens Poll Office In Cowshed

Misa Bharti's election office in a khatal is meant to symbolise an emotional connect with her parents Lalu Yadav and Rabri Devi's caste, the Yadavs, who are considered traditional RJD voters.