ARREST OF JI OPERATIVES: CALL TO OBSERVE CALM, RESPECT AND CIVILITY :

In the Name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful
ARREST OF JI OPERATIVES: CALL TO OBSERVE CALM, RESPECT AND CIVILITY

1. The 2nd arrest of the JI operatives has sparked another national debate on the potential threat it can pose to the safety of our nation and its national integration. It may have caused some worries and fears. More worrying is that this episode could lead to a sense of mistrust, which is detrimental to social cohesion.

2. The Singapore Islamic Scholars and Religious Teachers Association, PERGAS, agrees with the view of the Singapore Government that this arrest is a national security issue. Singaporeans, Muslims and Non- Muslims, should remain calm and leave the matter to the authorities to conduct their investigations and exercise the due process of law. PERGAS, is confident that the Singapore Government shall measure up to justice in maintaining the law and order of our Nation.

3. PERGAS holds to the principles of justice in actions and thoughts, peace and harmony. PERGAS is committed to contributing to the well-being of our nation. PERGAS, therefore, calls everybody to:

Remain calm and respect the Authorities.
Refrain from making inappropriate judgements and conclusions that do not augur well to the development of an integrated and cohesive nation.
Respect each other and maintain mutual trust. Stereotyping, casting doubts and ill-thoughts will only lead to mistrust and are detrimental to social cohesion.
Observe adab, law, ethics and civility and to express their views in a civil and constitutional manner. This could be done through the many mechanisms such as the community and national leaders, government feedback unit and the relevant authorities.
Respect the families of the affected as fellow dignified members of Singapore.
4. PERGAS shall continue with its effort to the development of a cohesive nation based on the principles of justice, equality, peace and harmony, and the respect for others regardless of race, language or religion.

5. PERGAS emphasizes the need for the Muslim community in Singapore to acquire the correct Islamic teachings through credible and qualified sources.

6. PERGAS has initiated to call its members for a discussion to achieve the best results in reaching out to the Muslim community in Singapore outlining the role each individual should play to maintain peace and harmony in a multi religious Singapore.

Ustaz Muhamad Bin Mohd Ishak
Honorary Secretary
The Singapore Islamic Scholars & Religious Teachers' Association