A discourse analysis of Singaporean Muslim youths’ stance towards halal food and its effects on multicultural integration

Abstract

The adherence to Islamic food laws is required as both expression and evidence of Muslim identity. Halal refers to what is permissible for Muslims to consume, and haram that which is impermissible. Yet, it is common to find some Muslims not adhering strictly to the halal/haram requirements. This is observable in Singapore, especially among Muslim youths. These youths however still lay claim to their Muslim identity despite knowingly flouting the religion’s dietary requirements. This study hence looks at the way Singaporean Muslim youths discursively reconcile and legitimate these contradictory aspects of their identity. Their responses are situated against wider societal discourse surrounding halal food in Singapore, drawing on Subway’s recent decision to go halal, which elicited many negative comments surrounding the halal needs of Muslims. Findings suggest that the youths’ adherence to halal/haram requirements are conflicted between personal autonomy, ethnic and national belonging. At the same time, this inner conflict is framed against a backdrop of tension regarding the rights and privileges of minority and majority populations in Singapore.