Unveiling socio-political dynamics: a study of marriage aspirations among Muslim youths in Singapore

• Main Authors: Hanisah Liana Binte Anifah, Nurul Liyana Binte Wahid, Siti Amirah Binte Mohamad Razif Helmy
• Other Authors: Shannon Ang
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: Nanyang Technological University 2024
• Subjects: Social Sciences; Marriage; Muslims; Individualism; Policies; Family; Singapore
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/175900
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

In Singapore, marriage intertwines closely with the state and family. With trends of delayed marriages, youths prioritise individual freedom, pursuing personal goals before marriage, indicating growing individualism in marriage aspirations. Islamic marriages are sacred, serving as a religious duty and a safeguard against immoral acts. However, literature on marriage aspirations of Muslim youths in Singapore is lacking. Thus, we aim to explore interconnections between Singapore's socio-political landscape and marriage aspirations of Muslim youths. Drawing on comprehensive interview data, we find similar patterns to existing studies where participants prioritise other aspirations before marriage, motivated by both self-enhancement and marriage prerequisites. This dynamic is viewed through the individualization without individualism framework, revealing a paradox between state emphasis on family reliance and decreasing family-centeredness. Moreover, participants navigate religious guidelines and societal norms, reflecting the concept of social secularism. Overall, this study highlights how Singapore's socio-political landscape influences the lives of our interviewees.