Hindu Endowments Board
The Hindu Endowments Board (Abbreviation: HEB) is a statutory board of the Singapore Government, under the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS).
Role
The Hindu Endowment Board (HEB) manages the 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.
History
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.
