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Madrasah Aljunied Al-Islamiah

A Heritage of Nurturing Scholars and Leaders in Islam Since 1927

About

Madrasah Aljunied Al-Islamiah, founded in 1927 by Syed Abdul Rahman Aljunied, began as an all-boys religious school. It is the second oldest Islamic school in Singapore, originally built on wakaf burial land in Kampong Glam with a two-story colonial-style building.


A School Rebuilt and Renewed

In 1996, it underwent major renovations supported by the contributions of both Muslims and non-Muslims, expanding into a larger facility with more classrooms. The new building was officially opened in April 2000.


Islamic and Academic Excellence

Madrasah Aljunied is recognised as a premier Islamic institution, offering a dual curriculum in:


  • Islamic education (with Arabic immersion)

  • Secular academic subjects


In its early days, 70% of the curriculum focused on religious studies. Arabic remains a living language at Aljunied, used during daily routines such as breaks, arrival, and dismissal.


Pioneering Religious Leadership

In 1936, Aljunied introduced Kismut-Takhassus Fil Wa’dzi wal Irsyad, a specialisation course to train students as religious leaders. The programme was led by As-Syeikh Abdurrahim Ibrahim Assamnudi from Egypt.


The school also initiated afternoon religious classes for government school students.


Growth After War and Academic Expansion

Following World War II, enrolment surged. In the 1960s, Aljunied expanded its secular curriculum to include:


  • Mathematics

  • Geography

  • Science

  • English

  • Malay Literature, etc.


It also introduced a 12-year education pathway, culminating in the GCE ‘O’ Level exams.


Al-Azhar Accreditation & Co-Ed Shift

In 1969, Aljunied became the first madrasah in Singapore accredited by Al-Azhar University, allowing direct entry for its graduates.

By 1974, the school welcomed its first female students, becoming a co-educational institution.


Part of the Joint Madrasah System (JMS)

In 2015, Madrasah Aljunied joined the JMS developed by MUIS, alongside:


  • Madrasah Al-Irsyad (Primary Education)

  • Madrasah Al-Arabiah (Academic Secondary)

  • Aljunied (Religious Secondary - grooming future asatizah)


International Baccalaureate (IB) Milestone

In 2018, Aljunied became the first Singapore madrasah to offer the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP).

The first batch graduated in 2020, combining Islamic values with global academic standards.

Embracing Innovation

In 2022, the school earned the title Apple Distinguished School, recognising its leadership in educational technology and creativity.



Competitions and Community Impact

The madrasah actively participates in Bahas 4PM and other national competitions.

It is the alma mater of many respected Islamic leaders, including:


  • Former Mufti Syeikh Syed Isa Semait

  • Dr. Fatris Bakaram

  • Current Mufti Dr. Nazirudin Nasir

  • Ustaz Ahmad Sonhadji (author and scholar)


Fun Fact!

Did you know?

During its renovation, the school temporarily relocated to the former MOE building at Winstedt Road to continue classes as usual!


💬 Were you an alumnus who studied at Winstedt during this period? Share your experience in the comments below!

Reference


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