MalayMail/StraitsTimes-Aug 30
A new framework is being developed to bring together both established Malay-Muslim organizations and newer grassroots groups in Singapore. Faishal Ibrahim, the acting minister in charge of Muslim affairs, told The Straits Times today that the initiative will build on, but go beyond, the M³ network — the partnership formed in 2018 involving the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis), Mendaki, and the People’s Association Malay Activity Executive Committees Council (Mesra). He said the needs of the Malay-Muslim community have changed, and so must the way organizations work together. “So working or developing things based on the past may not work for this new landscape,” he was quoted as saying. Faishal said he found “very strong aspirations” from both old and new community groups keen to partner the government while engaging with them since May. These include long-established Malay-Muslim and Indian Muslim bodies, as well as fresh players like MudaSG, which focuses on youth empowerment. “This is where I would like to develop a platform, at the broad level, to galvanize not only the synergy, but also the resources that we have… in developing the Malay/Muslim community,” he was quoted as saying.
He cited MudaSG as an example that has developed within its own context, and is able to contribute positively to the Malay and Muslim community, “especially in the youth space”.
He stressed that the framework will not be rushed. Read more at:
