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Madrasah Al-Arabiah Al-Islamiah

Lighting the Path of Knowledge Since the 1930s

📜 A Brief History

Madrasah Al-Arabiah Al-Islamiah (MAI) is believed to have  been founded by Sheikh Omar bin Abdullah Bamadhaj  between 1930 and 1934, when a small school building was  established beside Haji Yusoff Mosque. Known then as the  Arabic Islamic School, it primarily served the Serangoon  community with about 40 students. Its early focus was on  Arabic language learning, Islamic Religious Knowledge, and  Quranic studies. 

As the years passed, the building grew old, and in 1965 a  management committee was formed to raise funds for  renovations. Unfortunately, the committee was unable to  gain full support from the community. Despite these  challenges, the school remained committed to its mission of  educating students. 

Later, the school faced a major setback when a fire – caused by electrical wiring failure –broke out. Following this  incident, only 17 students returned, and lessons had to be  temporarily conducted at Haji Yusoff Mosque, where  students studied cross-legged on the floor. With inadequate  facilities, the student population continued to decline. 

In 1989, the Muhammadiyah Association took over  management of the school and relocated it to 14 Jalan Selamat. At that time, Muhammadiyah was already running  its own madrasah, Madrasah Ulumul Quran (MUQ), with  about 100 primary students. When both institutions  merged, the school retained the name Madrasah Al-Arabiah  Al-Islamiah and began serving both primary and secondary  students. In 1998, it celebrated a milestone by producing  its first batch of ‘O’ Level graduates. 

In 2006, the primary-level students were relocated to  another building at 17/17A Lorong 13 Geylang. A year later,  in 2007, MAI, together with Madrasah Al-Junied Al Islamiah and Madrasah Irsyad Zuhri Al-Islamiah, signed a  Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish the  Joint Madrasah System (JMS). Under this system, MAI  was designated as a secondary-level madrasah, excelling  particularly in its science programme while maintaining a  strong Islamic environment. The school officially admitted  its final batch of Primary 1 students in 2009. 

🌱 Mission, Vision, Values, and Core Beliefs 

MAI strives to fulfil its mission of becoming a leading  institution recognized for developing future-ready learners  who radiate blessings to all. Guided by its vision, MAI  nurtures individuals who embody taqwa, think critically, learn continuously, and lead with compassion. 

The school upholds a set of values encapsulated in the  acronym 2RRISE – Respect, Responsibility, Integrity,  Spirituality, and Excellence. Students and teachers are 

encouraged to RISE to any challenge, guided by the Quran and Sunnah, and to pursue success in their studies, careers, and chosen fields. 

At MAI, the commitment to nurturing learners is a shared  responsibility among students, teachers, staff, and parents.  The school believes every student is unique and has the  potential to achieve success in both dunya and akhirah.  Teachers and staff are empowered to continuously develop  their professional skills, while parents – entrusted with the  amanah of raising their children – play an essential role in  working hand in hand with the school to nurture  knowledgeable, compassionate, and God-conscious Muslims. 

🧠 Student Life & Co-Curricular Activities

MAI offers a comprehensive curriculum that balances  academic excellence with ukhrawi (religious) knowledge.  Students take a range of GCE subjects across six broad groups: 

  • Language Acquisition 

  • Mathematics 

  • Sciences 

  • Combined Humanities 

  • Islamic Studies 

  • Life Skills

Over four to five years, students will sit for at least 7 and  up to 9 subjects, ensuring a broad-based and holistic  education. 

iSTEM – Science Learning Experience  Science at MAI is taught through a blend of MOE’s  academic curriculum and Islamic values. The iSTEM  programme builds curiosity, research skills, and teamwork  while deepening students’ appreciation of Allah’s creation.  Learning progresses from classroom lessons and lab work to  hands-on projects, real-world research, and confident  presentation of findings. Students are nurtured to be  curious learners, effective communicators, and contributors  to the community and environment. 

MAI offers diverse CCAs grouped into three categories: 

  • Sports

    • Archery, fencing, netball, soccer, and  badminton foster discipline, teamwork, and resilience. 

  • Aesthetics

    • Clubs such as the Language & Aesthetics  Club and Media & Young Journalist Club develop  creativity through Arabic calligraphy, batik painting,  and percussion ensemble. 

  • Clubs & Societies

    • Options like the Green Club, Media  Club, and Quran Club nurture leadership, values, and a  strong community spirit.

Through CCAs, students explore their interests, develop  talents, and grow holistically beyond academics. 

✍🏻 Programmes

  • MAI Scholar’s Programme 

    • The MAI Scholars Programme provides high-achieving  students with opportunities to engage in research, service learning, and competitions. Supported by mentorships,  Olympiad training, and enrichment programmes, students  are challenged to think critically, communicate effectively,  and act with integrity. MAI scholars proudly represent the  school at national and international platforms such as the  National Science Challenge (NSC) and the International  Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS). 


  • Student Leadership Development  

    • In line with MAI’s vision of nurturing compassionate  leaders, the school adopts the NYAA framework, providing  experiences in service learning, healthy living, and outdoor  appreciation. Additionally, the Imam & Khateeb Programme empowers male students to lead daily Zuhr prayers and  deliver Friday sermons, equipping them with confidence to  serve the community as future leaders. 

  • Pastoral Care & Career Guidance 

    • Spiritual development remains central to MAI’s educational  philosophy. Daily programmes such as Ihyaa’ Al-Quran encourage Quran recitation after Zuhr prayers, fostering discipline and love for the Quran. In partnership with Darul  Quran Singapore, the Tahfiz Programme requires students  to memorize at least three juz of the Quran. Upon  completion, students undergo oral examinations and receive accreditation from DQS, affirming both their effort and  achievement. 

🕌 Conclusion

From its humble beginnings beside Haji Yusoff Mosque to  its present role as part of the Joint Madrasah System,  Madrasah Al-Arabiah Al-Islamiah has stood resilient in its  mission of shaping students who excel both in academics  and in faith. Its history reflects dedication, perseverance,  and an unwavering commitment to holistic education. With  strong programmes, committed teachers, supportive  parents, and a clear vision, MAI continues to nurture a new  generation of future-ready learners—graduates who will  lead with compassion, uphold Islamic values, and contribute  meaningfully to the community and the world.

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