Singapore will soon open the Singapore College of Islamic Studies (SCIS), a new institution designed to cultivate leaders in both religious and social sectors. The college will offer a four-year, full-time undergraduate program, allowing students to major in either Islamic studies or social sciences, reports the Straits Times.
SCIS plans to collaborate with prominent institutions like the Singapore University of Social Sciences, Egypt’s Islamic advisory body Dar al-Ifta, the University of Jordan, and Morocco’s Al-Qarawiyyin University. Additionally, scholars and leaders from Al-Azhar in Egypt and other respected universities will serve on the SCIS advisory panel, helping shape curriculum relevant to Muslim minorities facing contemporary challenges.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced the details on November 10 at an M3 forum celebrating the partnership’s fifth anniversary. This initiative – first proposed in 2016 – is part of Singapore’s efforts to train religious scholars and teachers, or asatizah, to guide the Muslim community in the nation’s multiracial and multi-religious environment. PM Wong introduced the college’s name at his National Day Rally speech in August, though an official opening date has yet to be set.
Emphasising the importance of contextualised religious knowledge, PM Wong stated, “We want them to have the knowledge and skills to provide religious guidance for our Muslim communities, but also an understanding of religion that’s contextualised for a diverse, multicultural society like Singapore.”
The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis), with governmental support, has structured SCIS’s leadership by appointing Dr Nazirudin Mohd Nasir, Singapore’s Mufti, as head of the college’s steering committee.
PM Wong further highlighted government efforts to modernise while preserving Malay/Muslim culture, with upgrades planned for cultural landmarks like Kampong Glam. The Malay Heritage Centre, currently closed for redevelopment, will reopen in about two years with new galleries and programmes aimed at showcasing the history and contributions of Singapore’s Malay community.
As part of a broader modernisation, the iconic Tanjong Katong Complex in Geylang Serai was recently put up for a 30-year lease to preserve its cultural value. Upon reopening in 2029, it will serve as a hub for the Malay/Muslim community, with the self-help group Mendaki relocating its headquarters to the complex alongside Muis.
Since its inception, M3 – a partnership between Muis, Mendaki, and the People’s Association Malay Activity Executive Committees Council – has made significant strides in empowering the community. Over the last five years, M3 has connected 1,600 mentors with 5,700 youths through its programs, with a presence in all 11 M3@Towns.
Dr Maliki Osman, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office and adviser to M3, noted that the M3@Towns initiative has organised over 320 activities, benefiting 127,000 residents. One programme, Project Dian@M3, aims to help families in rental housing purchase their own homes and has engaged more than 535 Malay/Muslim households.
Reflecting on the progress of M3, Dr Maliki added, “As we look ahead, our journey is far from over. We call on more organisations and volunteers to support these initiatives, strengthening our ability to serve the Malay/Muslim community effectively.”
