Twelve outstanding individuals were given the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore's (Muis') highest awards for their contributions towards the socioreligious life of the Singapore Muslim community at the Muis Awards ceremony.
Muis Chief Executive Esa Masood said in his opening address that he was pleased to note that the community’s spirit of rahmah (رحمة) or compassion stood strong despite the challenges faced during this trying year. He added that this spirit of compassion was also embodied by the award recipients shown through their character, competence and citizenry, exemplifying values reflective of a Community of Success.
The highest accolade, the Jasa Cemerlang Award, was presented to Haji Shafawi Ahmad for his key contributions to the community in various capacities across several institutions including Muis, madrasahs (religious schools) and mosques. He served in the Muis Council from 1986 to 2019, and is its longest-serving member. He also played a pivotal role in ensuring that the academic standards of the madrasahs are comparable to that of the national benchmark, which he described as one of his most significant contributions.
Hj Shafawi shared that he has never given thought about the amount of time he dedicated in his work. “I am a firm believer that you must fully commit yourself and give your best in everything that you do. Therefore, to me, volunteering is not about doing work voluntarily – instead, all of your efforts should be driven by the sense of purpose to help achieve success. I am thankful to receive this award, and that my contributions are seen to be beneficial for the community. I am glad that I am able to contribute as much as I did,” he said.
Eleven individuals received the Jasa Bakti Award for their exemplary long service. Ustaz Abdul Rapol Haron and Ustazah Kalthom Muhammad Isa are among this year’s recipients. Ustaz Abdul Rapol has served 26 years as a volunteer religious counsellor working with the Singapore Prison Service's inmates. Through his dedication, he has left a lasting impact on them, some of whom he still continues to engage with.
“After their release, some of them would come up to me to continue learning, and they would even be frequent visitors of the mosque,” he said.
As a counsellor for the Religious Rehabilitation Group (RRG), Ustazah Kalthom’s key contribution helped to reintegrate the family members of those who have been influenced by radical teachings. “I was not expecting any nomination, but I am thankful to receive this award, and will continue to work harder. I hope this also serves as an inspiration for others to contribute in any way they can,” she said.