In a multi-religious society, from time to time religious issues overlap with social and moral questions, such as LGBT issues or income inequality.
Achieving consensus requires much effort. The Government must always be watchful, prudent and hands-on to protect our religious harmony. Religious leaders play an important role too.
Imam Habib Syed Hassan Al-Attas (shaking hands) is a veteran member of the Inter-Religious Organisation, Singapore (IRO). He set up an inter-faith museum at the Ba'alwie Mosque to promote peace and understanding between people of different faiths. After 9/11, at his initiative, 100 Muslim organisations issued a joint statement rejecting terrorism and explaining the true position of Islam.
Last night, at the IRO’s 66th anniversary dinner at the Istana, President Dr Tony Tan presented Habib Hassan with the IRO Award for his outstanding work promoting inter-faith harmony.
Here’s the link to my speech last night: http://bit.ly/1ctgRp3 - LHL
(MCI Photo by LH Goh)
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