Singapore’s Inter-Religious Organisation stands in solidarity with Muslims after parcel sent to mosque containing meat

The Inter-Religious Organisation of Singapore (IRO), which represents 10 faiths, has expressed “deep concern” over an incident in which a parcel containing meat, believed to be pork, was sent to a mosque in the city-state. The incident on September 24 led to the evacuation of Al-Istiqamah Mosque in the Serangoon North area.

Speaking to the media the next day at the mosque, Minister for Home Affairs, Mr K. Shanmugam, said the act was inflammatory, and investigations were ongoing.

“Whatever the motive, this is playing with fire. We are treating this matter very seriously. We will deal firmly with anyone found responsible,” said Mr Shanmugam.

Muslims’ religious beliefs forbid them to eat pork.

In a Facebook post on September 25, the IRO, a more than 70-year-old organisation that works for religious harmony in Singapore, said it takes “a strong stand against any actions that threaten the peace and safety of our places of worship, or that undermine religious harmony in Singapore”.

“An act against one religion is an act against all religions,” said the non-governmental organisation.

The IRO noted that “Singapore's mosques, temples, churches, and other places of worship are sanctuaries for many. They must continue to be safe, peaceful spaces for all who seek solace, reflection, and communal worship”.

Mr Shanmugam had told the media that the authorities were still confirming the type of meat that was sent, but at first sight, it appeared to be pork.

Mr Shanmugam, who is also Coordinating Minister for National Security, said similar incidents had happened very recently at other mosques in Singapore.

He noted that such incidents were common in other countries and could create distrust between communities. He warned that Singapore could face the same situation if the nation was not careful in dealing with the issue.

“People really should be able to practise their religion in an atmosphere of trust and faith, and with mutual respect,” The Straits Times daily quoted him as saying. 

The IRO, in its statement, said, “We stand in solidarity with our Muslim brothers and sisters and pray for continued peace and harmony in our multicultural society.”

It stressed that “together, we remain steadfast in our shared commitment to safeguard religious harmony, which is the cornerstone of Singapore's unity.”

The IRO, which was founded in 1949 by leaders of various faiths, comprises members from the Baha’i, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Jain, Jewish, Muslim, Sikh, Taoist, and Zoroastrian religions.

The organisation holds lectures, seminars, and talks that promote interreligious understanding and dialogue.

(Christopher Khoo is a Singapore-based freelance journalist and educator.)