Influencer who sexually abused boys held informal class not approved by mosque, Zaqy Mohamad urges MUIS to review safeguards

Zaqy Mohamad, a senior minister in the Singapore government, has urged the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) to review its safeguards, particularly concerning informal activities involving children. This call for review comes in the wake of a recent case where a religious influencer was sentenced to 27 years and 10 months in prison, and 24 strokes of the cane, for sexually abusing two young boys at a mosque premises.

Zaqy expressed deep distress over the incident, emphasizing that it should never have happened in a place where children are supposed to feel safe. He clarified that the individual involved was not a mosque staff member, volunteer, or an accredited religious teacher under the Asatizah Recognition Scheme, nor was he conducting a formal religious class approved by the mosque.

However, he stressed that the severity of the situation remains, regardless of the perpetrator's affiliation. Zaqy acknowledged that MUIS has already announced measures to enhance security, such as increased patrols and CCTV monitoring, but he urged MUIS to take additional steps and conduct a thorough review of safeguards, especially for informal activities and gatherings involving children and youths.

He emphasized that mosques should remain open and welcoming, but this openness must not compromise safety. Zaqy also highlighted the broader lesson that one should not let their guard down simply because someone appears religious or possesses religious authority, especially in an era where relationships can begin online, and children may place their trust in individuals who seem knowledgeable about religion.

He urged parents and caregivers to stay close to their children and be aware of their interactions, both online and offline, and to teach children to report any discomfort or boundary violations to a trusted adult, such as parents, loved ones, or religious or mosque leaders. Zaqy concluded by reiterating that mosques have always been places of worship, learning, and belonging, and that the trust placed in asatizah (religious teachers) is precious.

However, he stressed that trust also carries an "amanah," a responsibility to uphold trust with morality, integrity, and honesty. When something goes wrong, it is crucial to ask hard questions, learn from the incident, and strive to do better.