We refer to the recent controversy over LGBTQ issues in the Malay/Muslim community of Singapore.

1. We accept that disagreements can exist within Singapore’s diverse society and these include matters that relate to religious, moral and political issues.

2. We have the right to express our views but we must not allow our disagreements to be a source of harm. The issue is how our society can accommodate reasonable disagreements and dismiss harmful ones.

3. We acknowledge the religious freedom of those who are against the permissibility of homosexuality within the religious framework. At the same time, we acknowledge that there are those who believe differently.

4. As such, we affirm that every individual has the right to religious freedom as guaranteed by our Constitution, to express their authentic selves, and maintain the integrity of their views and opinions.

5. We strongly reject any attempt to incite hatred; calling for physical, emotional and psychological harm or violence; and adopting an adversarial approach that promotes ill-will and hostility.

6. Instead of launching personal attacks on those we disagree with, we should create safe spaces for people to meet and engage in civil conversations with the aim of understanding the various standpoints without prejudice, and without necessarily needing to agree. That way, we become stronger as a society whilst respecting the shared space for diverse interests and beliefs.

7. We call upon all to affirm the dignity of those we disagree with, and to recognise their rights as fellow citizens, even in our disagreement on religious grounds.

8. As a community, we can do better to listen to each other with due care, empathy, respect and consideration.

SUPPORT THIS CALL!