Singaporean Muslims praise arrests of 27 radicalised Bangladeshis
The Muslim community in Singapore praised the authorities for their quick action in arresting the 27 Bangladeshi workers under the Internal Security Act.
The Bangladeshis were believed to be supporters of al-Qaeda and Islamic State and had considered carrying out armed violence overseas but did not plan any attacks in Singapore, the Ministry of Home Affairs said in a statement on Wednesday (20 January).
Twenty-six of the men have been repatriated. The remaining Bangladeshi was jailed after he attempted to leave Singapore illegally, and he will be repatriated after serving his sentence.
Radical ideology not in line with Islamic teachings
Najib Siddik, an educator, said that the radical ideology of those arrested is not in line with the teachings of Islam.
“As a Malay-Muslim, I believe that Islam is a religion of peace. Our Prophet taught us the virtue of controlling our anger and we should not harm others.
“Terrorism has never been a part of Islam and it will never represent what my faith teaches me. Nonetheless, I’m grateful to God that the state is vigilant in ensuring the safety of Singaporeans,” he said.
Housewife Haryati Osman applauded the efforts by the authorities in apprehending the suspects swiftly.
“We must remain vigilant at all time. And not take everything for granted,” said the mother of three.
Important role by religious teachers
Syed Hassan Al-Attas, the imam (religious leader) of the Ba’alwie mosque, said the arrests mean that Singaporeans and others in the country have to be mindful and alert at all times. They should inform the relevant authorities should they encounter suspicious behaviour of individuals or groups.
“We have to be careful of radicalisation and the need for Singaporean Muslims to be less extreme in their thinking.
“Extremism is not only about people going out to shoot at other people but it could also means that they are not flexible in their thinking, integrating, or dressing,” Syed Hassan said.
Religious teachers play an important role in guiding Singaporean Muslims towards moderation and they should not focus too much on the ritual aspects of the religion, he added.
“There is a need for them to talk about history of Islam and to teach Ilm Mantiq (logic) as a subject and should not focus too much on the ritual aspect of the religion but talk more on virtues.”
