Are Muslims not doing enough to integrate into society?

In a recent quote from his book "Hard Truths to Keep Singapore Going", MM Lee Kuan Yew stated that racial integration in Singapore was “progressing very nicely until the surge of Islam came”. This is because, he claimed, of the fact that despite not causing any social trouble, Muslims are still distinct and separate from others, which creates a veil between them and other members of society. For example, in canteens, there is a section for halal and non-halal food/cutlery only, rather than perhaps separate sections for Buddhists, Muslims, Hindus, etc.

This could be caused perhaps by the fact that Islam is especially strict on religious practices compared to other religions, and also due to the fact of many influential Muslims in society, where many rules or practices that are formed are influenced by decisions which take much into consideration how it would affect Muslims. I think there also has been some discrimination against Muslims particularly because of terrorist attacks, and much media coverage of how extremist Muslim groups have done much harm to our society.

I do not think that this shows that Muslims are not doing enough to integrate, and they are just trying to be faithful followers of their own religion. In our secular society in which we have pledged to uphold racial and religious harmony and equality, this is especially the kind of thing that we have to be tolerant of. In fact, one of the unique qualities of Singapore is that people of different religions are able to interact with each other in daily life rather than mix in very clearly defined racial groups, like in countries like America where it is uncommon to see, say, a Caucasian mixing with a group of African Americans. Even though this may sound unrealistic to some, the very existence of peace and prosperity in our society shows that people are definitely able to integrate between races without compromising on their religious beliefs.

I also feel that the distinct line between Muslims and Non-Muslims doesn't even really affect racial harmony. For example, the separation of Muslim stalls and cutlery in canteens does not really affect anything as colleagues and friends still eat together at the same table. Muslims and Malays would mix with each other generally in environments such as school and work, but it is only natural for them, and those of other races and religions to do the same.

Personally, I would not stop myself from befriending a person who is a Muslim or any other religion as long as their personality is good and compatible with mine. Besides, this integration is also much more successful compared to other countries where Muslims are stereotyped and discriminated against.

In order to integrate even better, not just with Muslims but with all other people who have different beliefs, I believe we should firstly understand their cultures, in order to realise that their beliefs are just different, not alien or terrifying, and also to take away stereotypes. Secondly, we should also take the first step to interact with those of other races and religions in the environments we are in like school and the work place.