'Compassion must move us to act': Zaqy pays tribute to 10 MUIS Awards 2026 recipients
Compassion must translate into action, with individuals stepping forward to help those in need and strengthen the wider community, Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Zaqy Mohamad said on Friday (Nov 6).Speaking at the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) Awards 2026 ceremony at The Villa, Istana, Zaqy paid tribute to 10 individuals whose contributions have helped uplift lives, strengthened community institutions and brought people together.The MUIS Awards have recognised individuals for their contributions to the Singapore Muslim community since 1990."They do not seek recognition. They see a need, step forward and get on helping others," he said, describing the spirit of service embodied by the recipients.Among those honoured was Hamzah Abdul Mutalib, who received the Anugerah Jasa Cemerlang, the highest accolade, for 49 years of voluntary service.Hamzah was instrumental in establishing Casa Raudha, Singapore's first Muslim-run crisis shelter for victims of domestic violence, after learning in 2006 of a woman and her children who needed a safe place to turn.