Singapore Adopts Neighbourliness Charter to Strengthen Interfaith Harmony

Singapore Adopts Neighbourliness Charter to Strengthen Interfaith Harmony
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Singapore’s Islamic Religious Council (MUIS), together with representatives of nine other religious traditions, has affirmed a shared Charter on Neighbourliness aimed at strengthening mutual respect, trust and peaceful coexistence among the country’s diverse religious communities.

The charter was announced during a gala dinner marking the 20th anniversary of the Harmony Centre and An-Nahdhah Mosque, attended by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. The event also saw the launch of the J.I.R.A.N Interfaith Engagement Toolkit, a practical initiative designed to bring interfaith understanding into everyday life.

Developed by the Harmony Centre, J.I.R.A.N stands for “Joining In, Respecting All Neighbours.” The toolkit provides guidance on ten faiths practised in Singapore, including advice on visiting places of worship, religious festivals, dietary practices, funerals and respectful ways of addressing religious leaders.

According to MUIS, the Charter on Neighbourliness reflects a collective commitment by religious leaders to strengthen relationships across faith communities, drawing on shared values including human dignity, compassion, solidarity and mutual respect. It encourages people not only to respect religious differences but also to build friendships and support their neighbours in times of need.

The initiatives seek to extend interfaith engagement beyond formal dialogues and organised events, encouraging practical acts of understanding and cooperation in local communities.