Entry Refusal At The Singapore Border
Singaporean authorities have refused entry to a Malaysian professor because of her public comments and political activism.
What is a scholar?
Fadiah Fikri is an anti-corruption activist and human rights lawyer in Malaysia. She has also been known to support Palestinian issues on social media, and she is involved in international advocacy.
Officials’ Reasons for Taking Action
Singapore’s Ministry of Home Affairs stated that she encouraged youth to engage in radical activism.
It stressed that foreigners are not allowed to have an influence on domestic politics. The ministry also stated that it would take action against those who promote illegal methods of protest.
Scholars’ Response
Fadiah revealed that her entry was refused without any explanation. Authorities told Fadiah they couldn’t give her a specific reason.
She called the action a grave attack on her work as an academic and described it as distressing. She posted an online document showing the immigration official’s refusal to allow her entry.
Planning a Visit and its Impact
Her visit to Singapore was to receive her PhD from the National University of Singapore where she earned her degree. She also attended a lecture by a distinguished guest, ran errands and engaged in academic pursuits.
Singapore has strict rules on protests
Singapore has strict regulations on gatherings in public. Everyone organizing a demonstration must get a permit from the police.
Officials claim that these regulations help to maintain the peace and stability of the country. However, critics claim that the rules limit free speech and activism.
Prior Cases
It isn’t the first time Singapore denied political figures entry. The country also refused entry to Nathan Law a Hong Kong activist for democracy based in Britain.
