Islam and citizenship education in Singapore: Challenges and implications

Abstract

The religious diversity of Singapore, coupled with the current phenomenon of Islamic revivalism, makes the management of religion a paramount concern for the Singapore government. By examining the developments of Islam in Singapore, this article explores the challenges and implications these developments have on citizenship education in the country. This article argues that there is a need for a form of citizenship education in Singapore that takes into consideration the multiplicity, complexity and intersection of religion and citizenship. It is further argued that what is needed is not just socialization into a particular state-sanctioned set of values and views, but an awareness and appreciation of the different religions, especially Islam. The Singapore experience provides a useful case study on the issues and challenges faced by the governments and citizens of plural societies in the midst of Islamic revivalism. © 2007, Sage Publications. All rights reserved.