Azlan Othman
A discussion to develop an Islamic community that is competent, diversified and modern with focus on education reformation and efforts for social development based on religious values and principles, enhanced social unity and active people to build a strong and sustainable institution was held on the sidelines of a two-day International Conference on Communities of Success (ICCOS) in Singapore which ended on Saturday.
Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman led a delegation from the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) of Brunei Darussalam. The conference served as a platform for religious and society leaders to learn from other Muslim communities their efforts in facing contemporary issues.
There were also panel discussions among religious leaders and renowned scholars, local officials and community leaders on topics on living religiously in a universal society, instilling characteristic for a successful community to carry out progressive and socio-religious livelihood, and to produce an excellent society.
Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong delivered the key-note address.
The international conference was also participated by officers from Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore.
The Sultanate’s participation aimed at upholding strong ties and cooperation between Brunei and Singapore, especially between MoRA and Singapore Islamic Religious Council (MUIS).
A knowledge sharing session by Singapore State Mufti was held focussing on the success of Singapore’s Muslim community. The ICCOS was organised by the MUIS with the theme ‘Citizens as Contributor of Dynamic Institutions’ which shared various models of excellent society with other communities.
Joining the minister were Permanent Secretary at the MoRA Haji Mohammad Rosli bin Haji Ibrahim; Senior Special Duties Officer, Head of Public Relations, International and MABIMS Haji Mohammad Albi bin Haji Ibrahim, Special Duties Officer Grade 1 of Public Relations, International and MABIMS at the MoRA Pengiran Muhammad Azrin bin Pengiran Jarail, as well as religious officer at the MoRA Haji Razali bin Haji Mahal.
