Singapore on Abdul Somad's Refusal of Entry: Preach Extremist Teachings
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18 May 2022 07:48 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian preacher Abdul Somad or familiarly known as UAS was denied entry into Singapore as he arrived with his family and relatives on Monday, May 16. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) of Singapore explained the reasons in a press release that the famous preacher has been known to preach extremist and segregationist teachings.
The MHA confirmed that Somad arrived at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal on Monday from Batam with six travel companions. He was denied entry following the interview upon arrival.
“Somad has been known to preach extremist and segregationist teachings, which are unacceptable in Singapore’s multi-racial and multi-religious society,” as quoted from MHA’s press release published via its website, Tuesday, May 17, 2022.
According to the Singaporean authorities, Somad has preached that suicide bombings are legitimate in the context of the Israel-Palestine conflict and considered it “martyrdom” operations. He has also made comments that denigrated other faith communities and publicly referred to non-Muslims as kafir or infidels.
The MHA underlined that an entry into Singapore is neither automatic nor a right and that is assessed on its own merits. The authority accused UAS of attempting to enter the Lion City for a social visit.
“The Singapore Government takes a serious view of any persons who advocate violence and/or espouse extremist and segregationist teachings,” it said.
Previously, Abdul Somad claimed he was deported from Singapore along with his family and relatives. In an interview uploaded on “Hai Guys Official” YouTube channel, he questioned the case as the immigration authority did not explain why he was refused entry.
He asked the Singaporean Ambassador to Indonesia to explain to the public why the country deported them. “Why did your government deport us?” he said, adding that their documents were completed and eligible for entry.
Abdul Somad also said that the visit was for a vacation. “Not for teaching or tabligh akbar (mass gathering).” He was then brought to a 2x1-meter ‘detention room’ and kept for about three hours before being returned to Batam on that day's last ferry.
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AHMAD FAIZ IBNU SANI