🕌 The Singapore Muslim Religious Council: The Pillar of Islamic Guidance in Singapore
The Singapore Muslim Religious Council, known locally as “Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura” (Muis), is the supreme Islamic religious authority in Singapore. Established under the Administration of Muslim Law Act of 1966, it has been instrumental in guiding and administering various facets of Islamic life within the country since its inauguration in 1968.
Definition and Role
The Singapore Muslim Religious Council (Muis) was formed under the Administration of Muslim Law Act (AMLA) of 1966 and inaugurated in 1968. Serving as the supreme Islamic religious authority in Singapore, Muis provides the essential link between the government and the Muslim community.
Etymology and Background
“Muis” is an acronym derivative of the Malay latest from “Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura”. It denotes the council responsible for administrating and managing Islamic affairs in Singapore.
Key Responsibilities
- Advisory Role: Muis advises the government on matters related to Islam, ensuring decisions consider the sensitivities and requirements of the Muslim population.
- Mosque-Building Programs and Management: Muis administers the construction of mosques, manages mosque operations, and oversees endowment properties (wakaf).
- Pilgrimage Coordination: It organizes and coordinates the annual pilgrimage (Hajj) to Mecca, ensuring that all necessary arrangements comply with Singapore and Saudi regulations.
- Family and Inheritance Matters: Muis forms an appeals board to handle divorce proceedings and inheritance disputes according to Islamic principles.
Historical Facts and Dates
- 1966: AMLA enactment marks the legislative foundation for Muis.
- 1968: Official inauguration of Muis.
- 1975: Successful launch of a comprehensive mosque-building and management program.
- 1982: Implementation of structured coordination for the Hajj pilgrimage to facilitate smoother operations.
Cultural Context
Cultural Differences and Similarities
As an Islamic authority within a multicultural and multi-religious Singaporean society, Muis operates uniquely compared to Islamic councils in predominantly Muslim countries. It harmonizes Islamic practices with Singapore’s secular administrative framework.
Translation and Terms Across Cultures
- Arabic: المجلس الديني الإسلامي في سنغافورة (Al-Majlis Al-Dini Al-Islami fi Singafura)
- Malay: Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura (Muis)
- Turkish: Singapur Müslüman Dini Konseyi
- Urdu: سنگاپور مسلم مذہبی کونسل
- Bengali: সিঙ্গাপুর মুসলিম ধর্মীয় কাউন্সিল
Related Terms, Synonyms, and Antonyms
Synonyms
- Islamic Council
- Religious Authority
- Shariah Council (in broader context)
Antonyms
- Secular Council
- Non-Religious Authority
Related Terms
- Awqaf: Endowment properties or assets.
- Shariah: Islamic jurisprudence or law.
- Hajj: The annual pilgrimage to Mecca, obligatory for Muslims.
Quotations
“Islam, and its religious laws, adjusting astutely within the vibrant and eclectic tapestry of Singapore’s multicultural ethos is a testament to the dynamic role of Muis.” - Ela Zainab Rahman, Islamic Scholar.
Exciting Facts
- Muis ensures halal certification for dietary products consumed among Muslims in Singapore.
- It plays a very active role in community outreach and social development programs.
Suggested Literature
- “Islam in Singapore: The Politics of Identity and Religious Change” by Muhammad Kamal Hassan
- “The Administration of Muslim Law Act: Legislative Framework and Impacts” by Professor Ahmad Ibrahim
- “Navigating Diversity: Islamic Practices in a Pluralistic Society” by Zainul Abidin Rasheed
Farewell Thought
Muis stands as a resilient pillar of Islamic administration in Singapore, bridging centuries-old traditions with modern governance. It isn’t merely an organization but embodies a faith’s adaptation to the socio-political currents of time.
Zayd Sheikh 2023-10-03
