Personal safety education, enhanced monitoring of informal gatherings with minors among new measures by MUIS to keep mosques safe

The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) is implementing new safety measures to ensure the security of mosques in Singapore. In response to a recent case involving a religious influencer who sexually abused two young boys at a mosque, MUIS will roll out a common safeguarding framework across mosques. This framework will outline principles, responsibilities, and processes for responding to safeguarding concerns.

MUIS staff will enhance monitoring of informal gatherings involving minors and intervene where there are concerns of unauthorized teaching or inappropriate boundary crossings. Staff will receive safeguarding awareness training to help identify signs of abuse or neglect, respond appropriately to disclosures, maintain professional boundaries, and understand their responsibilities.

Clear reporting and escalation protocols will be established to standardize the documentation, reporting, and timely escalation of safeguarding concerns.

In addition to the common safeguarding framework, MUIS will strengthen education for children and youth to protect them from unsafe or inappropriate behaviors. Protective Behaviour learning inserts for aLIVE students will help them recognize such behaviors and know how to respond and report concerns. Age-appropriate infographics will reinforce these messages.

MUIS will also engage parents and mosque teachers to support youths by providing resources on recognizing warning signs, speaking openly about personal safety, navigating online risks, and knowing how to report concerns or seek support. Teachers will receive training to recognize safeguarding concerns and respond appropriately to disclosures or incidents.