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Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth

Intern, Research on Legislative and Case Law Developments on Muslim divorce

Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth

InternshipClosed

What the role is

The Syariah Court (SYC) is the primary institution for settling disputes between divorcing and divorced Muslim couples. We also issue inheritance certificates to beneficiaries of deceased persons. The Syariah Court aspires to be a reliable, dynamic and just court which inspires confidence. The intern will study recent legislative and case law developments (2015-2022) in Singapore and other Muslim law jurisdictions on Muslim family law. This study will focus on divorce issues, but may extend to include ancillary matters with special focus on fasakh and research and review of trends of nafkah iddah and mutaah (including commentaries and case law in relevant foreign jurisdictions). The intern is expected to identify developments in the application of Muslim law in the specific focus areas - whether by legislative amendments, fatwa (religious edict) or case law, outline the background behind such developments, and assess the reception and effectiveness of that development in family law administration in that country. Where there are court cases heard or fatwa issued, case summaries and fatwa text are to be included. Further readings from the primary resources relied on in these cases and fatwas will also be required. The intern can make recommendations where these developments are suitable to be adopted in the social context of Singapore's Muslim family law.

What you will be working on

• The intern is required to present, organise and explain the findings in a final paper which includes case summaries. • The research will be useful as a resource for SYC in understanding the legislation and practice in different jurisdictions and the context within which they are applied. It will also bring focus on any areas of similarity which can be considered in the application of Muslim family law in Singapore. The findings will also be used to update the Legal Reference Manual, where relevant. This Legal Reference Manual is an internal reference on substantive law developed by Syariah Court as a source of reference for Presidents and Registrars of the Syariah Court. • The findings will also contribute to SYC’s consideration of potential proposals for legislative amendments to AMLA in terms of substantive Islamic law. • The intern will work closely under the supervision of a President of the SYC.

What we are looking for

• Keen interest in public policy work • Strong grasp in Muslim law practice • Resourcefulness as interns will rely on public materials as resource • Good organization skills, and literate in the use of Microsoft office tools • Excellent reading skills in English and Arabic • Excellent analytical and writing skills Application Details: We are seeking interns who can commit on a full-time basis. To apply: • Please submit your CV/ resume • Indicate your internship availability period Please note: • Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted • Shortlisted candidates should expect to hear from us within 2 to 4 weeks from the date of application Internship Periods Available: • Summer 2025

About Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth

We aim to build a cohesive and resilient society, deepening the sense of national identity and affinity for Singapore through strengthening community bonds, promoting of the arts and heritage, youth engagement, sports development, volunteerism and philanthropy.