Fri, 8 July 2011, 8:00pm | English

Singapore Post

SimplyIslam.sg, muzlimbuzz.sg

Dr Hisham Hellyer, Mr Zainul Abidin Rasheed

forum

Fees: Free

In December 2010, a 26-year old Tunisian fruit peddler had never expected to have plunged the Middle East into a massive political turmoil when he set himself ablaze in southern Tunis. His tragic death sparked widespread unrest in the Middle East that continues to this day. As a result, Tunisian President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali was forced to step down after 23 years in power, followed by Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, after a 30-year rule. Similar revolts are taking place in Libya, Bahrain, Syria, Jordan, Morocco, Algeria, Saudi Arabia and Yemen as well.

The Middle East has a strategic position in world geographic politics as it connects the three continents of Europe, Asia and Africa. The region's strategic importance, have made it an extraordinary player in modern world politics – major events in the region could have a profound influence on the world political landscape.

What does the Middle East turmoil mean to Singaporeans? What is its significance to Islam and Muslims, especially in Asia? What is the future of the Middle East? These are among the questions that will be addressed by the panellists of this discussion, Dr Hisham Hellyer and Mr. Zainul Abidin Rasheed.

Dr Hellyer, formerly Ford Fellow of Centre for Middle East Policy at the Brookings Institution, has spent the last several months in Egypt analysing the Middle East situation. Mr. Zainul Abidin was until May 2011, Singapore's Senior Minister of State – Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During his tenure at Foreign Affairs, he was focused on developing relations with the Middle East and Africa.

Attendance is free but registration is required. Please do so at http://muzlimbuzz.sg/2011/06/27/the-state-we-are-in-the-middle-east-turmoil-islam-muslims/

Location:
Singapore Post Auditorium

Singapore Post