Singapore tightens Islamic teaching rules: Classes of 10 or more must register with MUIS, including online

Singapore's Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) has introduced new registration requirements for individuals or organisations providing Islamic instruction to 10 or more people on a regular basis. As of October 3, such entities must register as a Muslim Religious School (MRS) with MUIS, regardless of whether the instruction occurs in-person or online.

Approximately 50 organizations and individuals are anticipated to register under the updated rules. No re-registration is necessary for existing MRS providers, and they can continue operating under their current registration.

MUIS has granted a grace period from October 2 to March 31, 2027, for providers who meet the MRS criteria but are not yet registered, allowing them to submit applications during this transition period while continuing to operate. The new regulations do not apply to the provision of Islamic instruction solely to family members or the personal sharing of religious views with close relatives and friends. It also does not cover religious services that do not involve teaching.

The updated requirements aim to bolster safeguards for Islamic religious education in Singapore, particularly online learning, and provide the Muslim community with greater assurance that instruction is delivered by qualified and recognized Muslim religious teachers (asatizah) through registered providers. This move follows a recent case where a self-styled religious influencer was sentenced for sexually abusing two young boys between 2022 and 2024 in various locations, including a mosque.

In response to this incident, a Committee to Strengthen Safeguards in Religious Settings was established in September to explore ways to further enhance safeguards for minors in religious settings like mosques while preserving their welcoming nature. The committee is expected to submit recommendations to the government by the end of 2026, focusing on governance and safeguarding frameworks in mosques, madrasahs, and Islamic education centers, as well as the screening and oversight of individuals working or volunteering with children, rules governing interactions with minors, and reporting and escalation procedures.

MUIS has also pledged to equip children, youth, parents, and educators with practical knowledge to recognize concerns, respond appropriately, and seek help when needed. Additionally, mosque staff and volunteers will receive training to better recognize signs of abuse or neglect, respond to reports, maintain professional boundaries, and understand their safeguarding responsibilities.

Furthermore, MUIS announced enhancements to the Asatizah Recognition Scheme (ARS) on October 2. Applicants for Tier 1 ARS recognition must now hold at least a degree in Islamic Studies, a requirement that does not apply to existing Tier 1 asatizah, including those whose applications are due for renewal. Unsuccessful applicants, as well as those whose recognition has been cancelled or not renewed, will face a one-year debarment period to encourage prospective asatizah to improve their competencies before reapplying.

MUIS encourages the public to seek Islamic instruction and guidance from ARS-recognized asatizah and registered MRS, and qualified individuals willing to provide regular Islamic instruction are urged to apply for ARS recognition.