A suspicious parcel containing meat that “appears to be pork” was recently sent to Al-Istiqamah Mosque in the Serangoon housing precinct, prompting concerns over religious sensitivities in Singapore. Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam described the act as “playing with fire” in the country’s multi-ethnic society and emphasised that authorities will deal firmly with anyone responsible.
This incident is not isolated. Similar parcels have reportedly been sent to other mosques in recent weeks, and investigations are ongoing. Preliminary checks by police and hazardous materials specialists found no dangerous substances in the parcel. One woman at the mosque was assessed for breathlessness and taken to hospital as a precaution but has since been discharged.
Minister Shanmugam highlighted that targeting places of worship is completely unacceptable. “People should be able to practice their religion in an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect,” he said. The Al-Istiqamah mosque leadership has called for calm, and prayers continued as usual, reflecting the peaceful response of congregants.
Authorities have stepped up security visits to mosques, and the minister reaffirmed Singapore’s commitment to maintaining safety at religious sites without turning them into fortified locations. He also drew attention to previous incidents, including a stabbing at St. Joseph’s Church in November 2024 and a 2020 plot against two mosques, to underline the importance of vigilance and community solidarity.
Shanmugam urged citizens to remain calm and stressed that incidents like these, if not addressed carefully, can deepen distrust between communities. He appreciated the expressions of concern and support from leaders of other faiths, describing it as a reflection of Singapore’s unique social harmony.
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