The role of museums in correcting the distorted image of Islam: A comparative study between Qatar and Singapore

Abstract

The paper analyses attempts and efforts in Qatar and by the Muslim community in Singapore to showcase a comprehensive picture of Islam at cultural institutions, museums, and galleries. The aim of such efforts is to reach out to interact with other faiths and cultures and engage in fruitful dialogue that could correct distorted images of Islam and Muslims, a form of 'cultural diplomacy'. Such attempts have led the Harmony Centre in Singapore (a focus in the article) and the Museums Authority in Qatar (a second focus) to become more vocal, taking a stand on global and other events and abuses. These institutions have started to think of themselves as active agents for social awareness and also seek ever more to address political issues in their exhibitions and programmes. In the process, museums and galleries have become a more vocal space for speaking out and educating about relevant issues relating to Islam and its imaging, and to mutual tolerance between members of different faiths. Cultural presentations, interfaith dialogue, and individual relationships are vital to achieving these ends, and may also have significant political effects, enhancing Muslim communities' soft power. Singapore and Qatar, both small countries, aspire to become global actors, and are using museums as a global showcase for diplomatically chosen aspects of Islamic ethics and principles, and a more comprehensive picture of a tolerant and peace-loving Islam.