Singapore Launches Helpline for Young Muslims
"We want to save people from being radicalized," Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean said at the Khadijah Mosque yesterday, Strait Times reported on Tuesday, June 30.
"Young persons, like the 17-year-old who was recently arrested, may be vulnerable to radical influences online," Teo added at the helpline's launch, just before breaking fast with Muslim community members.
The helpline, launched by Religious Rehabilitation Group (RRG), targets those seeking information about extremism and radicalization.
By offering clear answers on religious concepts that are misused by extremist groups, it would also help people seeking advice regarding family members or friends who they suspect have been radicalized.
RRG vice-chairman Mohamed Ali said the helpline can prevent young people from taking in religious information from the wrong sources, and counselors can help clarify doubts.
The helpline, 1800-774-7747, operates from 9am to 5pm from Mondays to Fridays.
Muslims in Singapore are estimated between 450,000 to 500,000, making around 14 to 15 percent of the population.
Source: On Islam
