Singapore’s Muslim affairs minister orders review of mosque safeguards after child abuse case

SINGAPORE, August 19 — In response to a recent child sexual abuse case involving a mosque, Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Zaqy Mohamad has ordered the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) to conduct a thorough review of the mosque's safety protocols. This follows the sentencing of a 37-year-old man, who was convicted of sexually abusing two young boys and three other victims, including a 17-year-old who viewed the abuser as a mentor.

The offender, a self-proclaimed "religious influencer," exploited the children's vulnerability and positioned himself as a father figure in their absence. While the abuser was not a mosque employee, volunteer, or an accredited teacher, the fact that the abuse occurred within a mosque has prompted Zaqy to investigate current security measures.

The minister has been in close discussions with MUIS and mosque leadership to address identified gaps. Although MUIS has implemented measures such as increased patrols and CCTV monitoring, Zaqy asserts that these steps are insufficient and that a more comprehensive review of safeguards is necessary, particularly around informal activities and gatherings involving children and youths.

He also emphasized the importance of vigilance from parents and caregivers in monitoring their children's interactions, both online and offline, and cautioned against placing undue trust in individuals who appear religious or speak with authority about religion.