SINGAPORE, Aug 19 — Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Zaqy Mohamad has directed the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) to conduct a comprehensive review of its safeguards following a child sexual abuse case where a mosque was used as one of the crime scenes.

The directive follows the sentencing of a 37-year-old self-styled “religious influencer,” who on Aug 17 was handed 27 years and 10 months’ jail and 24 strokes of the cane for the sexual abuse of two young boys.

The court heard that the offender repeatedly raped the younger brother, who was between six and eight years old, at various locations, including a toilet at the mosque where they frequently prayed. He later targeted the older brother, then aged 11 to 12, molesting him on several occasions, The Straits Times reported.

The man had exploited the children's vulnerability, positioning himself as a father figure in the absence of their parents. In addition to the abuse of the two brothers, he molested three other victims, including a 17-year-old boy who viewed him as a “big brother” and religious mentor.

In a Facebook post on Aug 18, Zaqy stated that MUIS is collaborating with relevant organisations to ensure the affected family receives necessary care and support.

“We are deeply disturbed by the sexual offences committed against children, as reported yesterday. Our thoughts are first and foremost with them and their family,” he said. “What happened should never have happened. Not to any child. Not anywhere.”

Zaqy stressed that the mosque must remain a sanctuary where Muslims pray, children learn their faith, and families gather in safety.

“So when that trust is abused, especially involving our children, it hurts us deeply as a community,” he said.

Zaqy noted that while the offender was not a mosque employee, volunteer, or an accredited teacher under the Asatizah Recognition Scheme, the fact that interactions occurred within a mosque necessitates a harder look at current security. He confirmed that he has been in close discussions with MUIS and mosque leadership to address these gaps.

While MUIS has already introduced measures such as increased patrols and CCTV monitoring, Zaqy insisted that these steps are not enough.

“We cannot leave it at that. We are reviewing our safeguards and strengthening security measures, particularly around informal activities and gatherings involving children and youths,” he said.

The acting minister also reminded to parents and caregivers to remain vigilant and closely monitor their children’s interactions, both online and offline.

“We should not let our guard down simply because someone appears religious or speaks with authority about religion,” he said.