The religio-political activism of ulama in Singapore

The article attempts to understand the relationship between Muslim religious scholars and the government in Singapore and argues that it has worsened since the city-state became independent in 1965. It explores the declining religious influence of the ulama by assessing their role and contribution to the enactment of the 1966 Muslim Personal Law which governs several aspects of Muslim life in Singapore and the 1998 amendment of the earlier law. It seeks to understand various contributory factors for this waning influence, namely the ulama's role in increased religiosity amongst Muslims in Singapore, the government's changing attitude towards Islam, and the evolving perceptions amongst some ulama about their role and influence within Singapore's Muslim community. It will also show how the ulama have tried to reclaim their religious influence.