Singapore forms committee to overhaul child protection in mosques and Islamic education centres

Following the conviction of a self-styled religious mentor for sexually assaulting two young brothers, Singapore's Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth and the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore have created a nine-member committee to review child protection in mosques, madrasahs and Islamic education centres. Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Zaqy Mohamad introduced the initiative in parliament, noting it will assess safeguards and suggest improvements.

The committee is co-chaired by Associate Professor Razwana Begum, head of a security programme at Singapore University of Social Sciences, and Ustaz Fathurrahman Dawoed, executive director at Andalus Corporation. It will evaluate governance frameworks, screening of personnel, reporting and escalation procedures, and develop codes of conduct for religious teachers, including digital influences. Recommendations are expected by the end of the year and will be shared with the wider community.