A new law to safeguard and strengthen racial harmony took effect on Sep. 15, 2026.
\n\nThe Maintenance of Racial Harmony Act 2025 was passed by parliament on Feb. 4, 2025.
\n\nIn a press release on Sep. 14, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said the act "strengthens Singapore's ability to preserve racial harmony, respond effectively to emerging threats, and safeguard our multicultural society against malicious foreign influence".
\n\nThe new law empowers the government to issue restraining orders (ROs) against individuals who make content that prejudices Singapore’s racial harmony.
\n\nIt does this by consolidating existing statutes to preserve racial harmony while providing for additional safeguards.
\n\nUnder the new law, a new Presidential Council for Racial and Religious Harmony (PCRRH) will be established to replace the existing Presidential Council for Religious Harmony.
\n\nThe PCRRH is also set to begin its inaugural three-year term on Sep. 15.
\n\nIt will comprise representatives from Singapore's major racial and religious communities, and persons who have distinguished themselves in public service or community relations in Singapore.
\n\nPCRRH members are expected to exercise independent judgement and work collectively in advising on matters affecting the maintenance of racial and religious harmony.
\n\nFormer Supreme Court judge Choo Han Teck has…
Original source: https://mothership.sg/
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