FAQ

The Inter-Racial and Religious Confidence Circle – better known as IRCC - are local-level interfaith platforms in every constituency, formed to promote racial and religious harmony.

The Inter-Racial Confidence Circles(IRCCs) were formed in 2002 by then-Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong against the backdrop of the 11 Sep 2001 terrorist attacks. 

In 2006, the IRCCs were re-positioned to serve as the local-level inter-faith platforms under the Community Engagement Programme (CEP), to respond quickly to incidents with racial and religious dimensions.  Friendships and networks of trust are built during peace time to ensure that we can withstand any challenge and strains on our social cohesion. 

The IRCCs were officially renamed to “Inter - Racial and Religious Confidence Circles” on 7 Sep 2007.  The acronym, IRCCs, however, remained the same.  The renaming signifies the IRCCs’ active promotion of inter – religious understanding and harmony.

The IRCCs serve as important bridges between religious, ethnic and community groups at the local level. Leaders from these groups come together to join the IRCC networks to build friendship and trust.

The IRCCs also aim to deepen people's understanding of the various faiths, beliefs and practices through inter-faith and inter-ethnic themed activities such as heritage trails, inter-faith talks and various ethnic and religious celebrations.

In addition, the IRCCs are trained to respond quickly to racial and religious tensions by remaining calm and resilient on the ground during crises. IRCCs will be the key links to disseminate timely and accurate information and to maintain confidence in the community.

Networking Sessions
Regular networking sessions and focus group discussions create opportunities for members and stakeholders representing various religious and community organisations to interact and exchange ideas, so as to foster stronger bonds and facilitate synergies for collaborative efforts in promoting inter-faith understanding.

Interfaith Dialogues
Dialogue enhances understanding and appreciation of the different faiths and beliefs though sharing of knowledge and perspectives from religious leaders and representatives. 

Interfaith Visits
Guided visits to places of worship allow for greater insights into the various faiths and their religious practices. Participants will be able to better appreciate Singapore’s rich heritage and religious diversity through first had experience and in-depth explanations from religious leaders and representatives.

IRCC Cares
Launched in 2009, "IRCC Cares" aims to help the less privileged in the community through a series of fund-raising and/or charity projects. The programme allows community leaders, religious organisations and partners to connect with one another, forge relationships and play their part for the less fortunate. It is a good example of the IRCCs’ commitment in constantly exploring new ways of interaction and communication. Such efforts cultivate a caring, compassionate and gracious society, and ultimately strengthen the foundations of racial and religious harmony.

Capability-building Programmes
Courses, workshops and crisis-preparedness exercises are conducted to equip members with the skills and knowledge to facilitate their work in promoting inter-faith and inter-racial harmony and overcome challenges in maintaining peace in the community.

IRCCs seek to strengthen mutual trust and understanding between different our community and religious groups.

Kindly contact the following for your visits/programs;
- ISD Heritage Centre at mha_isdhc@mha.gov.sg;
- School Learning Journeys to places of worship at gongyuan@onepeople.sg or 6259 4116