PUBLISHED ONBYSean LerActing Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Zaqy Mohamad is on a seven-day official visit to Saudi Arabia and Egypt from Nov 8 to 14.
"The visits will focus on Haj 2027 arrangements, Islamic higher education and strengthening bilateral and humanitarian cooperation," the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) said in a statement on Sunday (Nov 8).
While in Saudi Arabia's Jeddah, Zaqy will attend the annual Hajj Conference and Exhibition organised by Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
The event brings together representatives from participating countries to discuss haj-related matters.
MUIS said the acting minister will meet with Saudi Arabia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiahon the sidelines of the event to discuss preparations for the upcoming haj season, which is expected to take place in May next year.
Zaqy will also convey a request for an additional quota for Haj 2028, as part of Singapore’s continued engagement with Saudi Arabia to better meet the aspirations of prospective pilgrims.
The two ministers are also expected to formalise Singapore's haj allocation for 2027.
In Egypt, Zaqy will meet religious scholars and partners in Islamic higher education in Cairo, including partners and advisory panel members of the Singapore College of Islamic Studies (SCIS).
He will also engage Singaporean students pursuing Islamic studies there.
Building on the recent launch of SG for Humanity, the acting minister will support the work of participating Singapore humanitarian organisations and strengthen partnerships with Egyptian counterparts.
He is also scheduled to meet with Egyptian counterparts and humanitarian partners to strengthen Singapore's longstanding ties with Egypt and deepen cooperation in religious and humanitarian affairs.
The acting minister will be accompanied by MUIS chief executive Kadir Maideen and other senior officials.
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