The Inter-Religious Organisation, Singapore (IRO), is deeply concerned with reports regarding a 16-year-old Singaporean male who has been detained under the Internal Security Act for planning an attack on two mosques.
The IRO believes it is worrying when young people in our peace-loving community are able to develop hostile attitudes towards people of other faiths, prompting them to engage in violent behaviour.
The IRO urges everyone in Singapore to help battle against such disturbing situations of extremism by strengthening our interfaith unity. In this regard, the IRO will continue to do its part in building positive relationships amongst religious communities in Singapore.
Since its formation in 1949, the IRO has undertaken various efforts to develop interfaith relations. In recent years, the IRO has expanded its community outreach and engagement efforts. Through lectures, talks, exhibitions and tours the IRO provides the opportunity for members of the public to learn about various religious beliefs, traditions, rituals and customs. Alongside these activities, the IRO also focuses on digital communications that encourage interfaith friendly content on social media.
IRO’s volunteer-led Prayer & Blessings Group, Women of Faith and Youth Wing, play a crucial role in forming interfaith friendships. Specifically, the youth members have been working towards deepening interfaith conversations. Through programs such as kopi sessions and monthly catch-ups, the IRO youth wing provides regular interactions that are useful to eliminate prejudice and negative views about other religions among the youth population in Singapore.
The IRO strongly believes that unity is the most effective way to counter violent extremism. We call on all Singaporeans and residents to join us in this mission to safeguard our nation’s social cohesion.
For more information about IRO’s efforts to promote interfaith harmony, please visit www.iro.sg
ABOUT INTER-RELIGIOUS ORGANISATION SINGAPORE
The Inter-Religious Organisation, Singapore (IRO) was founded in 1949 with the objective to promote inter-religious harmony among the various religious groups in Singapore.
Ten (10) religions are represented in the IRO; Hindu, Jewish, Zoroastrian, Buddhist, Taoist, Jain, Christian, Islam, Sikh and Baha’i. A unique rotating annual presidency among the ten religions ensures that all member religions are given an equal opportunity to lead the IRO’s long-term efforts. For more information visit www.iro.sg
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Nazhath Faheema
General Manager
faheema@iro.sg