RELIGIOUS ACTIVITIES (Complaints)

Mr Yeo Choo Kok asked the Acting Minister for Social Affairs if he has received any reports of religious activities that smack of fanaticism or any complaints that some religious groups have over-zealously and even aggressively tried to promote their faith to the extent of causing annoyance to members of the public.

The Acting Minister for Social Affairs (Dr Ahmad Mattar): Mr Speaker, Sir, my answer to the question is "No." My Ministry has not received any complaint against over-zealous evangelists in recent years, although several Ministers have received letters alleging religious bigotry on the part of a religious sect. If we do receive any complaint about any evangelist acting in any way which is likely to cause fear or alarm to the public or acting against public order and tranquility, or in any other way prohibited by our criminal law, the matter will be brought to the attention of the Police.

Sir, the Constitution of Singapore guarantees freedom of worship for our citizens. Our laws also allow the propagation of religion by peaceful means.

In the past, there were a few instances of missionaries over-stepping the bounds of propriety in their zeal to spread the faith. However, missionaries by and large appreciate that aggressive campaigns are not the best way to win converts. They also know that it is not in their interest to commit any transgression of the law.

Mr C.V. Devan Nair (Anson): Sir, I am glad of the Minister's assurance and the restatement of the basic stand of our Government on matters religious, in view of the fact that there is a kind of occult-explosion going on in the world today and the proliferation of bizarre cults which may spill over into Singapore. The first victims of these cults, of course, are weak-brained and gullible Singaporeans, and some of the approaches and attitudes taken by these cults and sects are deeply offensive to established and traditional religions in our Republic. I am sure the Minister will be willing to give an assurance that the Government of Singapore will not tolerate intolerance in matters religious.

Dr Ahmad Mattar: Sir, on behalf of the Government I give the hon. Member for Anson and also Members of the House the assurance.