Minister for Social and Family Development, Second Minister for Health, and Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs, Masagos Zulkifli, is currently visiting the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan from 1 to 4 September 2024. During his visit, Masagos is engaging with key religious and political figures to discuss various topics, including humanitarian aid, interfaith understanding, and social cohesion.
## Background
The visit is part of efforts to strengthen Singapore’s engagements with UAE and Jordan for future collaboration, according to a media release by the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis) on 31 August. Masagos is accompanied by Muis Chief Executive Kadir Maideen and other officials.
## Meetings in UAE
In Abu Dhabi, Masagos met with significant figures such as Omar Habtoor Al Darei, Chairman of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat; Thani Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade; and Awaidha Murshed Al Marar, Chairman of the Department of Energy. He also plans to visit the Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities and meet with the Singapore Muslim community in the UAE.
## Discussions on humanitarian aid and social cohesion
On 3 September, Masagos shared in a Facebook post that he was “happy” to reconnect with his Emirati counterparts. He had engaging discussions on building strong families, interfaith understanding, social cohesion, trade, and energy. “By sharing experiences and best practices, both our people can benefit further,” he said. Masagos also highlighted Singapore’s Community of Success vision, which aims to show how Muslim minorities can thrive in a multicultural society.
Regarding recent developments in Gaza, Masagos expressed deep concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis. He thanked UAE and Cyprus for supporting Singapore’s fourth tranche of humanitarian aid to Gaza, which included 300 metric tonnes of canned sardines and 1,000 metric tonnes of rice.
## Engagements in Jordan
In Amman, Masagos will meet with Mohammed Khalayleh, Minister of Awqaf, Islamic Affairs and Holy Places; Jordanian Prince Rashid Bin Hassan; and Nathir Obeidat, President of the University of Jordan. He will also engage with Singaporean students studying in Jordan and attend a symbolic cheque presentation between Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation (RLAF) and United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) for its Ramadan Appeal for Gaza fundraising in March 2024.
## Strengthening future collaborations
Masagos’ visit underscores Singapore’s commitment to fostering stronger ties with the UAE and Jordan. The discussions and engagements during this trip are expected to pave the way for future collaborations, particularly in areas of humanitarian aid, interfaith dialogue, and social development. The upcoming International Conference on Communities of Success (ICCOS) in October will further provide a platform for thought leaders, religious scholars, and community practitioners to exchange ideas on building thriving Muslim communities globally.
