Acting Minister-in-Charge of Muslim Affairs and Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs, Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, has stepped down from all his political appointments, including his position as a Member of Parliament and his membership in the People’s Action Party (PAP).
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced the resignation on Monday through a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), confirming that Faishal had accepted responsibility for conduct that did not meet the standards expected of a political office holder.
The resignation follows an investigation into online interactions between Faishal and a woman from the public after a complaint was submitted to the PMO.
Police Investigation Found No Criminal Offence
According to the PMO, an email was received from a woman detailing her interactions with Faishal. Following the complaint, Prime Minister Wong instructed that the matter be reviewed immediately.
Both Faishal and the woman were interviewed separately during the inquiry. Each party reportedly made allegations of harassment against the other, prompting the case to be referred to the Singapore Police Force for investigation.
After reviewing the evidence and consulting the Attorney-General’s Chambers, the authorities concluded that neither individual had committed a criminal offence. As a result, no criminal charges will be filed against either party.
Conduct Fell Below Expected Standards
Although the investigation determined that no laws had been broken, Prime Minister Wong said there remained a separate question regarding whether Faishal’s behaviour met the ethical standards expected of ministers and Members of Parliament.
According to the PMO statement, Faishal acknowledged that his conduct fell short of those expectations and accepted responsibility for his actions. He subsequently tendered his resignation from all political appointments.
Following his departure, Senior Minister of State for Defence and Sustainability & the Environment Zaqy Mohamad will assume the role of Acting Minister-in-Charge of Muslim Affairs.
Nearly Two Decades in Politics
Faishal entered Parliament after the 2006 General Election as part of the PAP team representing Marine Parade GRC. Over the years, he successfully retained his parliamentary seat through the 2011, 2015, 2020 and 2025 General Elections, serving residents in both Marine Parade and Nee Soon constituencies.
Throughout his political career, he held several appointments across multiple ministries, including Transport, Education, Health, Social and Family Development, National Development and Home Affairs. His responsibilities expanded steadily as he gained experience in government.
Following the 2025 General Election, Faishal succeeded Masagos Zulkifli as Acting Minister-in-Charge of Muslim Affairs while also serving as Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs.
Focus on Community and National Issues
During his tenure as Acting Minister-in-Charge of Muslim Affairs, Faishal was involved in a range of national and community matters. He spoke publicly on issues affecting the Malay/Muslim community, support for Singaporean pilgrims performing the haj in Saudi Arabia, and efforts to strengthen social cohesion.
He also addressed developments relating to the conflict in the Middle East, urging Singaporeans to remain united despite growing international tensions. In addition, he highlighted government initiatives aimed at uplifting the Malay community and promoting harmony across different racial and religious groups.
With Faishal’s resignation now taking effect, the government has moved to ensure continuity in ministerial responsibilities while arrangements are made for representation within Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC.