Post COVID-19 Resumption of Building of New Mosques

65 Dr Shahira Abdullah asked the Minister for Social and Family Development and Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs as the plans to build new mosques, including one in Tampines North, have been deferred in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic, when will such plans likely be reviewed again.

Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) utilises the Mosque Building and Mendaki Fund, or MBMF, for the building of new mosques and the upgrading of existing ones. Previously in May 2021, we announced that plans to build new mosques, including in Tampines North, will be deferred and reviewed when the economy recovers, with MUIS prioritising the upgrading plans for existing mosques. For example, MUIS will be working towards securing longer leases for Masjid Tentera Diraja and Masjid Ahmad Ibrahim and upgrading both mosques.

Given that needs in the religious sector are being reviewed, together with the funding required, MUIS will be working with the relevant agencies to conduct a fresh needs assessment for all infrastructure, including demand for and supply of prayer spaces. The study will also take into consideration the impact of the pandemic on the construction industry, which has resulted in higher construction costs.