Muslim couples can solemnise marriage online under changes to law

SINGAPORE – Muslim couples will now be able to solemnise their marriages online and go virtual for a host of other marriage-related matters under changes to the law.

Minister for Social and Family Development Masagos Zulkifli said the new administrative processes will better equip Muslim institutions such as the Registry of Muslim Marriages (ROMM), Syariah Court and Islamic Religious Council of Singapore, or Muis, to deliver services effectively without disruption.

The changes, which include a move to digital options, will not replace the traditional solemnisation ceremony but will allow Muslims to get married online when the circumstances call for it, such as during the Covid-19 pandemic.

During a debate on changes to the Administration of Muslim Law Act, or Amla, in Parliament Mr Masagos, who is also Minister-in-charge of Muslims Affairs, said: “Digitalisation is necessary if our institutions are to provide relevant and effective support to the community. This became all the more salient with Covid-19.

“The pandemic necessitated new norms and habits we did not consider prior to 2020. We have learnt the importance of leveraging technology for contingencies, so that we can minimise disruptions to service delivery.”

Similarly, the Shariah Court also adapted court processes to allow people to give evidence online.

Other changes to Amla will help improve the divorce process and better support children affected by divorce.