S’pore Muslim leaders and groups denounce Bondi shooting, reiterate commitment to peace and safety
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Mourners at the Bondi Pavilion on Dec 16 for a tribute in memory of the victims of the Bondi Beach shooting in Sydney, Australia.
PHOTO: AFP
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SINGAPORE – Muslim leaders in Singapore called the Bondi Beach attack in Australia
The Singapore Islamic Scholars and Religious Teachers Association, or Pergas, said in a Dec 16 statement that it completely opposes acts of violence against civilians and innocents, and was deeply saddened by the shooting at the popular beach in Sydney on Dec 14.
The death toll from the attack now stands at 16, including one of the attackers. The victims include a 10-year-old girl, a rabbi and a Holocaust survivor
In its statement, Pergas lauded the actions of 43-year-old Sydney resident Ahmed al Ahmed, who tackled one gunman
It said: “Together with the rest of society, Pergas is moved by the courageous act of the individual who intervened to protect others. We acknowledge the courageous actions of Ahmed al Ahmed, who intervened to protect others, an act that stands as a powerful affirmation of humanity in the face of brutality. His action stood out in stark contrast to the brutality of the attack.”
Pergas said Mr Ahmed’s actions reflect a principle enshrined in the Quran, which says that if anyone saves a life, it is akin to saving all mankind. “This verse underscores the sanctity of human life and reflects values shared across faiths and communities. It reminds us of the importance of compassion, courage and responsibility towards one another,” it said.
Pergas said it continues to stand with anyone who rejects violence and upholds peace, dignity and mutual respect. It also reiterated its commitment to fostering empathy, solidarity and a shared commitment to the preservation of life.
The Australian authorities said the shooting was a targeted anti-Semitic attack, as the gunmen – a father-and-son duo
The father, 50, was shot dead during the attack, while his 24-year-old son was in hospital in a critical condition under police guard. They are believed to have been influenced by terror group ISIS
On Dec 16, Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Faishal Ibrahim said in a Facebook post that he was heartened and thankful to see Singaporeans, interfaith partners and religious organisations “coming together to firmly reject terrorism, hatred and racism in all its forms”.
He said: “In response to the attack in Bondi, Malay/Muslim organisations and our interfaith partners have spoken with one clear voice in condemning the violence.”
These organisations are: the Inter-Religious Organisation, Islamic Religious Council of Singapore or MUIS, National Council of Churches of Singapore, Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Singapore, Jewish Welfare Board, Hindu Advisory Board, Sikh Advisory Board, Singapore Buddhist Federation and Taoist Federation of Singapore.
Associate Professor Faishal said the collective stand reflects the strength of Singaporeans’ shared commitment to peace, dignity and mutual respect.
“This is what Singapore stands for. We stand for what is right. We defend one another. We protect and respect each other’s religious beliefs and practices, especially in times of difficulty.” He said this “spirit of solidarity” is deeply aligned with a Muslim ethos called “Rahmatan lil ’Alamin”, which means blessings to all.
It is through such unity that Singaporeans protect and strengthen the nation’s social fabric, and ensure that Singapore remains a place where everyone feels safe, respected and valued, he said.
The president of the Singapore Malay Youth Library Association, or Taman Bacaan, also condemned the incident.
“Regardless of intent or circumstance, the use of weapons to resolve grievances reflects a serious failure of social responsibility and respect for human life,” Mr Abdul Halim Kader said in a statement on Dec 17.
Any act of violence that places innocent lives at risk and violates the safety of public spaces is unacceptable and must be rejected without reservation, he said.
Mr Halim, who is also a founding member of the organisation, added that a firm stance against violence, early intervention, education and community engagement have been central in maintaining trust and stability in public spaces in Singapore.
“Taman Bacaan calls on all communities to reject violence, promote responsible discourse, and reaffirm shared values of peace and mutual respect,” he said.
The organisation extends its deepest solidarity to the victims, their families and all who were affected by the attack in Bondi, said Mr Halim.
Since the shooting, Singapore leaders have roundly denounced the attack.
In a letter to his Australian counterpart
