Some things Singapore has low tolerance for might raise an eyebrow or two. Chewing gum and fireworks, for example.
But for all our stringent regulations, some actually do serve to protect the nation from harms. Most recently, extremist teachings.
Extremist Preacher Denied Entry
On Monday (16 May), Indonesian preacher Abdul Somad Batubara and six of his travel companions were denied entry into Singapore, said the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
The group of seven arrived at Singapore’s Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal from Batam.
According to MHA, Somad was interviewed. However, the group was denied entry into Singapore and placed on a ferry back to Batam on the same day.
Insulted Other Religions
This was because Somad has been known to preach extremist and segregationist teachings, both of which are unacceptable in Singapore’s multiracial and multi-religious society.
Additionally, in the past, Somad had preached that suicide bombings are legitimate in the context of the Israel-Palestine conflict, and are considered “martyrdom” operations.
He has also made comments criticising other religions, such as Christianity, by describing the Christian crucifix as the dwelling place of an “infidel jinn (demon)”.
Somad has also publicly referred to non-Muslims as kafirs or infidels.
Takes Serious View Against Extremist Advocates
A visitor’s entry into Singapore is neither automatic nor a right, said MHA. Each case is assessed “on its own merits”.
Even though Somad had attempted to enter Singapore for a social visit (or appeared to do so), the Singapore Government takes a serious view of any persons who advocate violence or espouse extremist and segregationist teachings.
Needless to say, Somad was not too happy about being rejected from Singapore.
On Monday, he put up a post about being denied entry into Singapore on social media. His post included a photo and video of his holding area in Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal.
Refused Entry to Other Countries
Despite being one of Indonesia’s most widely followed preachers on the Internet, Somad has been criticised by Indonesians, including mainstream Muslim leaders, for comments he has made denigrating other faiths.
After Singapore refused him entry, Indonesian media reports said he has been denied entry to Hong Kong, Timor Leste, and several European countries in the past.
Featured Image: Facebook (Ustaz Abdul Somad)