Singapore sharing on caring for minorities
I HAVE been lucky to speak in Singapore in the past in several forums related to security and the status of minority Muslims of the world.
Muslim minorities are a commonality of Singapore and the Philippines. Recently, the presidential adviser on Muslim affairs, Almarim C. Tillah, met with Masagos Zulkifli, Singapore’s minister for social and family development, second minister for health, and minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs, at the Shangri-La Hotel in Taguig City.
At the meeting, Minister Zulkifli highlighted the significant similarities between the Philippines and Singapore and expressed optimism about future cooperation in various sectors, including exchange of know-how, technology transfer for the benefit of Muslim communities, and halal industries. He noted that Singapore has successfully integrated halal practices across major fast-food chains, such as McDonald’s, KFC and Jollibee, emphasizing the country’s commitment to the halal industry. “Once a chain serves halal food in one branch, it must apply the same standard in all its branches in Singapore,” the minister elaborated.
Minister Zulkifli was joined at the meeting by Constance See, Singapore’s ambassador to the Philippines, and Kadir Maideen Mohammad, chief executive of the Singapore Islamic Hub. The minister shared insights into Singapore’s governance, emphasizing its corruption-free environment, where even gifts like cellphones are prohibited to maintain integrity.
“There are six Muslim Cabinet members in Singapore,” he said, underscoring the country’s success based on principles of trust, fairness and justice for every citizen. He stressed that job opportunities in Singapore are merit-based, ensuring equal chances for all regardless of their faith and ethnic backgrounds.
In discussing religious infrastructure, Minister Zulkifli pointed out that Singapore does not permit foreign donors to fund mosques or madrasahs, preventing external influence. Instead, all mosques are constructed through the contributions of Singaporeans. Additionally, Islamic studies in Singapore are governed by national laws, and all teachers undergo a rigorous one-year certification course to ensure high standards of education.
The meeting underscored the potential for enhanced collaboration between the Philippines and Singapore, particularly in areas of mutual interest, such as the halal industry and Islamic affairs.
Sen. Robinhood Padilla was also a guest. Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, a Muslim member of the Cabinet, also hosted a meeting with the Singapore group on possible areas of cooperation in promoting the interests of Muslim communities not only in the Philippines but in the region.