Letter from Yap Li Gin
I am very concerned by the repeated emphasis in newspaper reports and cyberspace discussions on the religious beliefs of some of the newly appointed Aware committee members and their apparent position on homosexuality. In many articles, there is mention of how most of the new Aware members are Christians and that Dr Alan Chin has petitioned against homosexuality.
There is also an article about the religious beliefs of Mrs Claire Nazar who resigned as Aware president. Is there a discrimination of people who are against homosexuality? In Singapore, everyone is entitled to their religious views and we should respect each other’s views.
With regard to the issue of homosexuality, it has been discussed at length previously when our Government was reviewing the necessity of repealing Section 377A of the Penal Code. After much discussion and engagement with the general public, our Government has not done so as it feels that our society is not ready for it. Dr Chin’s stance against homosexuality is also a position that is consistent with other major religions in Singapore such as Catholicism, Protestantism, Islam, etc.
All in all, I hope that Singaporeans will continue to uphold our multi-ethnic and multi-religious society. I feel that speculation about an anti-homosexuality conspiracy is unconstructive, and might lead to unnecessary religious conflicts. Instead of participating in and encouraging such speculation, the Aware executive committee should be given more space and time to set directions for the society
With regard to the issue of homosexuality, it has been discussed at length previously when our Government was reviewing the necessity of repealing Section 377A of the Penal Code. After much discussion and engagement with the general public, our Government has not done so as it feels that our society is not ready for it. Dr Chin’s stance against homosexuality is also a position that is consistent with other major religions in Singapore such as Catholicism, Protestantism, Islam, etc.
All in all, I hope that Singaporeans will continue to uphold our multi-ethnic and multi-religious society. I feel that speculation about an anti-homosexuality conspiracy is unconstructive, and might lead to unnecessary religious conflicts. Instead of participating in and encouraging such speculation, the Aware executive committee should be given more space and time to set directions for the society
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