The
Hindu Endowments Board (HEB) is a Statutory Board under the purview
of the Ministry of Community Development Youth and Sports (MCYS).
The
Hindu Endowments Board (HEB) was formed in 1968 by an Act passed
in parliament which transferred the management of 4 major Hindu
temples from the Mohammedan and Hindu Endowments Board (MHEB). The
MHEB was formed in 1907 by the Colonial Government in early Singapore
to overcome shortcomings in the management of Hindu and Muslim religious
entities.
In
1985, the Hindu Advisory Board (HAB) was established to advise the
Government and HEB on matters of Hindu religion and customs. Both
the Hindu Endowments Board and the Hindu Advisory Board are headed
by Chairpersons appointed by the Minister for Community Development
Youth and Sports. There are presently 16 members in HEB and 12 members
in HAB.
In
addition to managing Sri Mariamman, Sri Srinivasa Perumal, Sri Sivan
and Sri Vairavimada Kaliamman Temples, the Hindu Endowments Board
administers two Kindergartens and a Half way house where substance
abusers are rehabilitated.
HEB’s
involvement in community projects spans from free medical counselling
services to bringing Deepavali joy to Little India through a street
light up and trade fair held annually during the festive season.
Underprivileged Singaporeans in community homes and charities are
not forgotten and benefit through Deepavali Cheer, HEB’s annual
festive care and share programme.
HEB
is responsible for organizing major Hindu festivals like Thaipusam
and Firewalking. It also helps other Hindu temples in Singapore
on staff matters, religious issues and getting land for relocation
of temples. HEB actively supports and is involved in inter religious
activities and community service projects organized by the various
religious groups in Singapore.
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