The Dawoodi Bohra community of Singapore extended a warm welcome to Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong and Emeritus Senior Minister and former Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong at the community’s Burhani Masjid complex on April 25, 2026.
The event brought together distinguished guests from the Majlis Ugama Islam Singapore (MUIS), the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY), academics, businessmen, and representatives from various High Commissions in the city.
The community presented ESM Goh Chok Tong with a citation honouring his service to the country and decades of friendship with the Dawoodi Bohra community.
“The Dawoodi Bohra community’s commitment to looking outwards and building partnerships is an inspiration to us all. Let us continue to step forward to strengthen mutual understanding and deepen the trust we share with one another, so that we have a strong and united Singapore for generations to come.”
— Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong
For many guests, the evening was also a window into the community’s living traditions. Visitors participated in the practice of roti-making, a cultural tradition within the community that signifies resilience, self-reliance, respect, and affection. They also received a brief overview of the distinctive architectural design of the masjid.
Huzaifa Bahrainwala, the community’s local representative, shared a special message on behalf of His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, encouraging community members to uphold the prophetic tradition that states: “Love for one’s homeland is part of faith.”
DPM Gan echoed this spirit in his remarks, noting that the Dawoodi Bohra community’s contributions to Singapore go beyond major events.
“Harmony is built not only through major events, but also through daily gestures of friendship and respect.”
— Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong
He praised the community’s outward-looking commitment as a bridge-building example for all Singaporeans.
At the conclusion, the guests joined community members for a meal over the thaal, in a communal dining experience that is a unique cultural tradition within the Dawoodi Bohra community.
Though modest in size, the Dawoodi Bohra community has long played an integral role in Singapore’s social landscape by engaging across community lines. This gathering was a testament to that legacy and a reminder that meaningful relationships are often forged through such simple yet heartfelt gestures.