Zaqy Mohamad calls for stronger safeguards at mosques after sexual offences against 2 boys: 'It hurts us deeply'

Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Zaqy Mohamad has called for stronger safeguards for children and youths at mosques, after a man was jailed for sexually abusing two young boys. 

In a video posted on the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore's (Muis) social media pages on Tuesday (Aug 18), Zaqy said he was "deeply disturbed" upon learning about the offences and expressed his thoughts for the victims and their families.

"What happened should never have happened. Not to any child, not anywhere and certainly not in a place where our children and families should feel safe," he said. 

"For us, as Muslims, the mosque is more than a building. So when that trust is abused, especially involving our children, it hurts us deeply as a community."

Addressing concerns over the incident, Zaqy clarified that the individual involved was not a mosque staff member or volunteer, and also not an accredited religious teacher.

"He was not conducting a formal religious class organised or approved by the mosque," Zaqy said. 

"But that does not make what happened any less serious, nor can we simply say he was not affiliated with the mosque and leave it there." 

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Zaqy's comments come after a 37-year-old "religious influencer" pleaded guilty on Monday to three charges of rape and two counts of molestation.

The man had repeatedly sexually assaulted two young boys at various locations, including a toilet in a mosque where he often prayed with them and taught them religion.

He was sentenced to 27 years and 10 months' jail and 24 strokes of the cane.

Parents urged to stay vigilant

On Monday, Muis released a statement condemning the sexual offences involving young victims on mosque premises.

Muis said it would continue to strengthen safeguards both within mosques and online, while working with the community to ensure that young people are safe and supported.

In the video, Zaqy said he has been discussing the matter closely with Muis and mosque leaders, and asked Muis for a further review of existing safeguards, particularly informal activities and gatherings involving children and youths.

He also highlighted the need for greater vigilance beyond physical spaces, noting that relationships between children and adults can also begin online. 

"Our children 'follow' people, talk to them and may place their trust in someone who appears knowledgeable about religion. Most people use that influence for good, but sadly, there are those who may abuse it," said Zaqy. 

Addressing children, he said: "If anyone makes you uncomfortable, asks you to keep something secret, or crosses a boundary, tell someone you trust. You will be heard."

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xingying.koh@asiaone.com