Balancing Religious Values and Social Changes
The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) has issued religious advice to the Muslim community following the announcement by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong that Section 377A of the Penal Code will be repealed. This colonial-era law criminalised sexual relations between men.
The announcement, made during the National Day Rally, also included the Government’s decision to amend the Constitution to safeguard the definition of marriage as a union between a man and a woman from legal challenges.
Key Guidance from MUIS
In a statement, MUIS highlighted the importance of preserving human dignity, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence. It urged Muslims to treat everyone with compassion and refrain from any form of harassment or bullying, regardless of differing beliefs or sexual orientations.
MUIS advised the Muslim community to maintain a balance between holding onto their faith and practising compassion toward others. It also called for understanding and respect, especially for individuals within the faith grappling with reconciling their beliefs and sexuality.
The council emphasised the need to educate the Muslim community, particularly the youth, on Islamic principles while equipping religious teachers and counsellors to handle sensitive issues with empathy and confidentiality.
Support for Traditional Marriage
MUIS reaffirmed its support for strengthening the institution of marriage between a man and a woman, aligning with Islamic teachings that regard such unions as the foundation of society. It expressed concerns about efforts to reinterpret religious texts on sexuality, stating that these developments challenge traditional views on family and morality.
While MUIS acknowledged diverse worldviews, it reiterated that the Muslim community’s values should be respected, cautioning against open and aggressive challenges to these beliefs, which could create societal divisions.
A Delicate Balance
MUIS described navigating these complex issues as a “great test” of empathy and principledness. The council urged the Muslim community to engage thoughtfully and peacefully in discussions, aiming to coexist harmoniously amidst differing perspectives.
In a related statement, the Association of Muslim Professionals (AMP) expressed concerns about the repeal of 377A and its potential societal impact. It supported the Government’s move to amend the Constitution to protect the definition of marriage and called for calm and civility in discussions.
Unity Amid Differences
Singapore’s Mufti, Dr Nazirudin Mohd Nasir, described the repeal of 377A as a challenging issue requiring balance. He stressed the importance of maintaining religious values while fostering understanding and avoiding conflict.
“As laws evolve, our religious teachings remain constant,” he said, expressing hope for mutual respect between differing viewpoints.
