The Singapore College of Islamic Studies aims to blend religious knowledge with a multi-cultural context.
SINGAPORE – Madrasah graduates seeking advanced religious education will soon have a local option with the opening of the Singapore College of Islamic Studies (SCIS) in 2028. The institution will focus on applying Islamic teachings within Singapore’s multi-racial and multi-religious society, according to Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Masagos Zulkifli.
Speaking at Parliament House on November 13, Mr. Masagos emphasized that SCIS will not rival historic institutions like Morocco’s Al-Qarawiyyin but instead address the unique needs of Muslims living as minorities in secular societies.
The college, a long-anticipated project for Singapore’s Muslim community, will begin with an initial cohort of 60 students at the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore’s (Muis) Bencoolen campus. It will offer an undergraduate program with specializations in Islamic studies or social sciences, developed in collaboration with institutions such as Egypt’s Dar al-Ifta and the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS).
Curriculum Highlights
The four-year program will immerse students in both pathways during the first two years, providing a solid foundation before they specialize in their chosen field. Graduates can also obtain dual degrees by completing additional hours. This flexibility allows students to transition between religious roles and professions like social work or counseling.
Strategic Oversight
Former Cabinet minister Abdullah Tarmugi will chair the SCIS board of governors, which will oversee strategic decisions, including fees and remuneration. The advisory panel, led by Mr. Masagos, includes international experts such as Egypt’s Grand Mufti Nazir Mohamed Ayyad and Professor Mona Siddiqui from the University of Edinburgh.
Mr. Masagos noted the significant contributions of Singapore’s madrasahs, like the historic Madrasah Alsagoff, in nurturing leaders who have impacted the region. He hopes the SCIS can eventually serve religious leaders in countries facing similar socio-religious challenges, such as Thailand, South Africa, and the Philippines.
Future Milestones
Looking ahead, the Malay/Muslim community can anticipate the reopening of the Malay Heritage Centre in 2026 and the revamped Tanjong Katong Complex by 2029, which will house Mendaki’s headquarters and a Muis office.
This initiative underscores Singapore’s commitment to developing resilient religious leadership while fostering harmony in its multicultural society.
