MAJLIS UGAMA ISLAM SINGAPURA (SELECTION OF MEMBERS)

Mr M.K.A. Jabbar asked the Acting Minister for Social Affairs if he will inform the House how members of the Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura are selected.

Dr Ahmad Mattar: Members of the Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura are appointed under Section 7 of the Administration of Muslim Law Act which provides that the Majlis shall consist of:

(i) a President to be appointed by the President of Singapore;

(ii) the Mufti;

(iii) not more than five members to be appointed by the President of Singapore on the recommendation of the Minister; and

(iv) not less than seven members to be appointed by the President of Singapore, from a list of nominees to be submitted by the President of the Majlis. The list of nominees shall consist of persons nominated by such Muslim societies as are prescribed for the purpose by the Majlis.

Persons to be considered for appointment to the Majlis must satisfy the following:-

(i) be a male Muslim;

(ii) be a citizen of Singapore;

(iii) be above the age of 25 years; and

(iv) be conversant with the Muslim religion.

The Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura has adopted the following criteria for prescribing Muslim societies who are to be invited to submit nominees.

(i) the society must actively promote Islam;

(ii) it must represent the interests and aspirations of Muslims; and

(iii) it must have a good following.

Members of the Majlis hold office for a period of three years and are eligible for re-appointment.