Maximising the overlapping area: Multiculturalism and a Muslim identity for madrasahs in Singapore

Abstract

This paper discusses the recent efforts by the Singapore government to construct a Muslim identity for the madrasahs in Singapore. By promoting a prescribed set of desired attributes for the Muslims and introducing new curriculum materials for the madrasahs, the government aspires to construct a Muslim identity that is compatible with the principle and practice of 'hard multiculturalism' in Singapore. Through a content analysis of the textbooks for Islamic Social Studies used at the primary level, this paper argues that the Muslim identity that is privileged by the state is one where a 'good' Muslim is a good citizen who: is well-adjusted as a full member of a secular society; is enlightened and appreciates richness of other civilisations; is inclusive and practises pluralism; and is a blessing to other communities. © 2009 Taylor & Francis.