Singapore has denied entry to a Malaysian activist, Fadiah Nadwa Fikri, citing concerns over her political activities within the country. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced on Friday, March 27, that Fadiah was deemed an “undesirable visitor.”
Activism and Entry Ban
According to MHA, Fadiah encouraged Singaporean youth to embrace “her brand of radical advocacy.” The ministry stated she advocated for actions extending beyond peaceful protest, including mobilizing students and communities, and pursuing “disruptive and violent actions” to support specific causes. MHA affirmed that Singapore will not permit foreign involvement in its domestic politics or the promotion of unlawful protest methods.
Fadiah, who posted about the incident on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, claimed she was deported to Malaysia and banned from re-entry. She stated she had sought clarification from the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) regarding the ban, but was informed they could not disclose the reasons. ICA’s notice of refusal of entry indicated she was “ineligible for the issue of a pass under current immigration policies.”
Planned Visit and Academic Background
Fadiah had traveled to Singapore on March 22 at the invitation of her former supervisor to deliver a guest lecture based on her doctoral research. Her PhD work focused on the intellectual history of decolonisation and anti-imperialism. She too intended to collect her degree certificate, visit friends, and spend time with her former supervisor’s family.
Fadiah was a student in the Southeast Asian Studies department at NUS, according to the university’s website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What reason did Singapore deliver for banning Fadiah Nadwa Fikri?
Singapore’s Ministry of Home Affairs stated Fadiah encouraged youths to adopt “her brand of radical advocacy” and to engage in disruptive and violent actions. They described her as an “undesirable visitor.”
What was Fadiah planning to do in Singapore?
Fadiah planned to deliver a guest lecture at the invitation of her former supervisor, collect her PhD degree certificate, and visit friends, and family.
Did Fadiah receive an explanation for the ban from Singaporean authorities?
Fadiah claimed she asked the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) for the reasons for the ban, but was told they “could not disclose them.”
What implications might this case have for academic exchange and freedom of expression in the region?
