The horrific planning of the teenager detained by ISD has negative implications and effects, including the potential for a crack in the relationship between religious groups.

How can we act to prevent it from happening again? Singaporeans are shocked by the news of a 16-year-old teenager planning an attack on two local mosques.

He is currently detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA) and is subject to a Detention Order.

The youth was influenced by right-wing extremist ideology and was inspired by Brenton Tarrant, the man who attacked a mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand two years ago.

The Internal Security Department (ISD) investigation into the teenager revealed that he had made detailed preparations and planned to carry out the attack.

This includes buying a machete online and getting a vehicle to drive between the two mosques he targeted.

Of course, this is a worrying development. The horror planning of these young people has dire implications and effects, including the potential to crack the relationship between religious groups.

This incident also clearly shows that dangerous extremist ideologies can influence anyone.

NOT RELATED TO RELIGION

Radicalization (radicalization) or the process of a person becoming radical due to being influenced by extremist ideology is a global phenomenon that plagues many societies around the world.

It happens without knowing the background of age, gender, religion and race.

In the complexity of facing these challenges of extremist ideology, religion is often associated. For most people, the image of violence with today’s religion is very difficult to separate.

This perception arises due to the existence of individuals and groups of extremists who commit acts of violence in the name of religion. This fact occurs in the Muslim, Christian, Hindu, Buddhist and so on communities.

Every act of terrorism cannot be hidden behind the name of any religion or belief because every religion teaches to respect others and preserve human values.

A GOOD EXAMPLE OF THE PROPHET

Prophet Muhammad saw set a good example by actively promoting peace, tolerance, and compassion towards all people, both Muslims and non-Muslims.

For example, when the Christians of Najran had to perform their worship while discussing with the Prophet, He offered the use of his mosque, Masjid An-Nabawi for their worship.

Imagine how effective the Prophet facilitated their affairs, and this is an example of how the seriousness, goodness and actions of beautiful human relationships become the pillars of the solution to many of the world’s problems.

Therefore, our society is urged to stay away from the act of blaming a religion or pointing fingers at particular groups in the event of an incident like this.

What should be noted is how each religious group can convince each other that this incident is an isolated incident and not from the teachings of any religion.

REKINDLING THE VALUES OF HUMANITY

To deal with extremism’s threat more effectively, we need to create long-term strategies and holistic approaches, which is essential to ensure a useful and more practical effect.

There is no denying that family institutions and religious education are fundamental to fortify our youths from extremism.

The teachings of religion are very broad and what should be emphasized in religious guidance to our youths is not only a matter of worship but also a matter of morals and morals.

Among the main things that Islam teaches is the nature of love or mercy that every Muslim should have. This nature of mercy should be practised on families and Muslims only and all of God’s creations, including non-Muslims and other creations of God such as animals and plants.

If the nature of this mercy can be revived in each of us, then an identity or identity that values human values will be born. The value of this humanity is very high and is a pillar of the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

GOOD EXAMPLE OF PARENTS

Just look at the example given above how the Prophet Muhammad saw non- Muslims with full manners, respect and love.

To inculcate human values and other moral values, the family institution plays an important role.

Parents can play a more significant role in ensuring that their children can be kept away from extremism and rigid orientation.

Among the things that can be done by parents, heirs or guardians of children is to have regular conversations with children in a relaxed but serious about the importance of appreciating every human being regardless of their background.

This method is a divine way to instil human values in them. Also, it is essential in familiarizing the parents’ relationship with the children.

For example, as parents, we should set a good example in our relationships and interactions with non-Muslim neighbours. Giving whatever help to non-Muslim neighbours even if it is just sharing food with them reflects good morals.

It also displays a very high value of humanity. If children can see their parents implement it, then the nature of love for all human beings can be nurtured from an early age.

REJECTING DANGEROUS IDEOLOGY

The arrest of teenager who was influenced by the extremist ideology of the right- wing is sure to be a concern and concern for all, both the government and the community.

This is because the ideology influenced by the teenager is a dangerous orientation that threatens the security of the country and society.
Understanding and orientation based on hatred and anti-religious attitudes of other religions are spreading widely on the internet. This is what worries me.

Today we live in a global village. The extremist ideologies propagated by them abroad have crept into our society through the internet and social media. Everyone, including children, also does not escape the grip of technology in this challenging era.

Furthermore, the tendency to use social media and online platforms in the COVID-19 era is another major challenge for the public to uncover false information that quickly affects the vigilant public.

MAINTAINING HARMONY

Extremist ideology, whether arising from the right-wing or Islamic extremist groups such as ISIS is also based on the ideology of hatred. Excessive feelings of hatred can cause harm if left unchecked.

Therefore, every member of society must continue to be aware of the dangers of this hateful ideology while rejecting all forms of discrimination, intolerance and all dangerous orientations and beliefs.

The effects and consequences of a violent act in Singapore are too significant on social unity and harmonious life integrity.

Come on, let us continue to work together as a society to maintain harmony and support the beauty of multi-religious life here.

It requires us to reject all kinds of heinous acts that could hinder our efforts to maintain a harmonious religion and life.

Source: Berita Mediacorp, 28 Jan 2021

https://berita.mediacorp.sg/mobilem/commentary/komentar-tolak-fahaman-pelampau-dengan-menyemai-nilai/4566684.html