Home Affairs Minister highlights role of interfaith leadership at RRG iftar
Religious and community leaders play a critical role in maintaining peace and unity in Singapore, said Minister for Home Affairs K. Shanmugam at the Religious Rehabilitation Group (RRG) iftar event on Feb 23.
Secular Framework Supports Harmony
Speaking at Khadijah Mosque, Mr Shanmugam said Singapore remains an “oasis of peace” because it upholds key fundamentals such as racial and religious harmony within a secular framework.
“Whatever happens externally in the world, we try not to bring those problems in here,” he said.
While Singapore may provide humanitarian assistance where appropriate, its laws do not allow citizens to engage in violence overseas or participate in foreign conflicts. Action will be taken against those who do so, he added.
Leaders Shape Community Response
Mr Shanmugam noted that Singaporeans respond positively when religious and community leaders promote unity, compassion and mutual respect across faiths.
“They build understanding and friendship across faiths,” he said, adding that strong interfaith relationships enable communities to respond calmly and constructively when challenges arise.
Youth Vulnerability In Digital Age
Highlighting the influence of the online space, Mr Shanmugam said many young people turn to digital platforms in search of identity and belonging.
He cited a recent case involving a 14-year-old student who was issued a restriction order under the Internal Security Act (ISA) after developing intentions linked to armed violence overseas. The case was one of three involving 14-year-olds dealt with under the ISA in the past two years.
“Cases such as these involving young people are especially troubling. They are vulnerable. They need trusted adults and mentors to guide them,” he said.
Role Of The Religious Rehabilitation Group
Mr Shanmugam described the RRG as an important pillar in Singapore’s efforts to maintain social cohesion and counter extremist ideologies.
He said its approach of “winning hearts and minds” has been central to rehabilitation efforts and in addressing factors that make individuals susceptible to radicalisation.
Through initiatives such as the Majulah Gallery and digital outreach, the RRG provides counter-narratives that promote coexistence and mutual respect, particularly among younger audiences.
Wider Community Support Essential
The minister added that RRG’s work is strengthened by a broader ecosystem of community and interfaith support.
“These quiet and sustained contributions reinforce interfaith harmony at the ground level,” he said, noting that such efforts create the conditions for effective rehabilitation, prevention and reintegration.
The iftar event was attended by religious leaders and guests including Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Faishal Ibrahim and former Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean.
Mr Shanmugam emphasised that sustained interfaith leadership and community cooperation remain key to safeguarding Singapore’s harmony, particularly amid global tensions and evolving online influences.
Sources: Straits Times (2026) , Asia One (2026)
Keywords: Shanmugam Religious Harmony Speech, RRG Iftar Event, ISA Youth Case Singapore, Interfaith Leadership Singapore, Counter Radicalisation Efforts
