Singapore launches a multidisciplinary Islamic college to equip asatizah for modern challenges
As societies evolve rapidly, religious education can no longer exist in isolation. Singapore is taking a decisive step to ensure its Islamic scholars remain relevant, grounded, and socially engaged in a complex, multicultural environment.
A New Vision for Islamic Education
Singapore’s Islamic education system is being reshaped to better prepare future asatizah to engage with contemporary social, ethical, and technological issues. Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Faishal Ibrahim said on Jan 27 that religious teachers must go beyond traditional knowledge to confidently practise Islam while contributing positively to society. This approach aims to strengthen the Malay-Muslim community’s role within Singapore’s multicultural framework.
Establishment of the Singapore College of Islamic Studies
To support this vision, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore is establishing the Singapore College of Islamic Studies. The upcoming institution is designed to develop religious leaders capable of serving local communities while navigating modern realities. Speaking at the college’s inaugural symposium, Associate Professor Faishal highlighted that the institution will focus on contextualized Islamic leadership suited for Singapore’s diverse social landscape.
Leadership and Governance Structure
The college’s board of governors will be chaired by former Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Abdullah Tarmugi, who served from 1993 to 2002. The steering committee will be led by the Mufti of Singapore, Dr Nazirudin Mohd Nasir. Both bodies include senior asatizah, curriculum developers, and industry experts to ensure academic rigor and community relevance.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration with SUSS
In December 2025, the college signed an agreement with the Singapore University of Social Sciences to offer an interdisciplinary degree programme. The curriculum will integrate Islamic studies with social sciences and humanities, allowing graduates to address socio-religious challenges while expanding career pathways into fields such as social work and community development.
Preparing Graduates for Global Challenges
Dr Nazirudin emphasized that modern religious leadership requires a broad mindset to respond to issues such as climate change, biomedical advancements, and the rapid development of artificial intelligence. He said a strong grounding in Islamic sciences, combined with exposure to diverse perspectives, will help graduates offer solutions that benefit both the Muslim community and society at large.
Research with Societal Impact
Singapore Management University President Lily Kong noted that the college’s research programme on Muslim communities in secular and advanced economies reflects a strong commitment to societal relevance. She stressed that publicly supported institutions have a responsibility to ensure their research contributes meaningfully to real-world communities and policy discussions.
Supporting Pathways from Madrasahs
MUIS deputy chief executive Khairul Anwar said alignment with Singapore’s madrasah system will be explored once the college finalizes its curriculum and entry requirements. SUSS President Tan Tai Yong added that young Singaporeans should not be underestimated, noting that with strong guidance and teaching, students can adapt to ambitious interdisciplinary learning models.
The establishment of the Singapore College of Islamic Studies signals a significant shift in how Islamic education aligns with modern societal needs. By blending tradition with interdisciplinary learning, the initiative strengthens social cohesion and prepares future religious leaders to contribute constructively within Singapore and across the region, offering a model that resonates beyond national borders.
Sources: Straits Times (2026) , MUIS GOV SG (2026)
Keywords: Singapore Islamic Studies, Asatizah Training, MUIS Education, Muslim Affairs Singapore, Religious Teachers
