What to Expect
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to discover faith as an adult, to start over spiritually while carrying the weight of your past and the uncertainty of your future? In this heartfelt and deeply personal session, Narumi Maruyama shares her journey of embracing Islam—one that began not in a moment of dramatic change, but through quiet reflection and a growing sense of purpose.
Narumi is a Japanese HR consultant who has been working in Singapore for the past few years. In January 2024, she embraced Islam, stepping into a new chapter of life that brought both challenges and clarity. During this session, she will speak candidly about her journey: what first sparked her interest in Islam, how her perceptions evolved over time, and the process she took in learning about the faith before deciding to take her shahadah.
This is not just a story about conversion—it’s a story about seeking truth, navigating uncertainty, and finding peace in a new identity. Narumi will share how she balanced her spiritual journey with a demanding career, how she dealt with the reactions of those around her, and how she continues to grow in her understanding and practice of Islam. From the practical to the deeply personal, her reflections offer insight into what it truly means to embrace a new way of life as an adult.
She will also touch on how her background shaped the way she approached faith, and how her experiences living and working in a diverse society like Singapore provided both support and questions that she had to work through. With honesty and openness, Narumi invites others into her story—not as a finished chapter, but as a journey still unfolding.
About Birth & Rebirths
What does it mean to be reborn? For some, it is a spiritual awakening—being baptised, embracing a new faith, or finding solace in age-old rituals that mark a transition into a different way of living. For others, rebirth comes in the form of reinvention—leaving behind a troubled past, overcoming illness, or finding purpose after loss. From ex-residents who have rebuilt their lives, to individuals who have found strength in faith, community, or personal conviction, their stories remind us that transformation is always possible.
Through facilitated dialogues with the social workers, and people on the fringes of our society we hope to provide opportunities for participants to engage in candid and heartfelt conversations.
About the Organisation
Established in 1980, the Muslim Converts’ Association of Singapore (MCAS), also known as Darul Arqam, serves as a key institution dedicated to supporting new Muslims through religious guidance, education, and community building. Its origins trace back to the early 1970s with the formation of "Kumpulan Saudara Baru", a group focused on the welfare of converts.
From its humble beginnings at Pheng Geck Avenue, MCAS has grown into a dynamic Islamic centre housed at The Galaxy on Onan Road. Officially opened in 1997, this facility offers classrooms, prayer rooms, and an auditorium, serving as a vibrant hub for learning and outreach in English. Inspired by the legacy of Arqam bin Abi al-Arqam, MCAS continues to welcome both converts and non-Muslims seeking to explore and understand Islam in a supportive and inclusive environment.
About the Host
Narumi Maruyama is a human resource consultant with over three years of experience in Singapore’s HR industry. Originally from Japan, she has built her career supporting organisations with talent development, recruitment strategies, and workplace engagement. Her professional journey is marked by a strong commitment to people and culture, both in the corporate environment and beyond.
In January 2024, Narumi embraced Islam, marking the beginning of a new and deeply personal chapter in her life. Since her conversion, she has been an active participant in programmes organised by Darul Arqam, where she finds community, knowledge, and spiritual growth. Her experience as a new Muslim navigating both faith and daily life brings a unique and heartfelt perspective to her involvement in the Muslim community.
Narumi's journey reflects a meaningful blend of professional dedication and personal transformation. She hopes to support and inspire others—particularly fellow converts—through her story and active contribution to community programmes.
Who should come?
- Everyone is welcome to participate!
- Participants 12 years and under must be accompanied and supervised by a parent/guardian at all times.
Programme Details
- Approximate Duration: 2 hours (Please arrive 15 minutes before the event for registration.)
- Language: English
- Meeting Point: Meet at My Community's Office (Blk 115A Commonwealth Drive, #04-13/14, Singapore 149596)
- Ending Point: The event will start and end at the same point.
- The event will proceed rain or shine.
What to bring?
- Participants should be dressed respectfully in smart casual (i.e. collared shirt, long pants and covered shoes). Sleeveless attire, shorts/miniskirts or sandals are strictly not allowed. Participants will be denied entry if they dress inappropriately.
- Participants should bring along an umbrella and a bottle of water.
- Asthmatic individuals are encouraged to bring their inhaler.
Other important information
- Parking is available at Block 115 Commonwealth Drive Carpark.
- The venue is wheelchair accessible.
- Photography is allowed during the event.
Disclaimer
- By agreeing to participate in the event, participants are responsible for any injury, loss or damage due to the negligence on his/her part or of the children under his/her charge.
- Participants must abide by the house rules set out by the host. Facilitators will brief participants at the start of the programme.
- Videos and photographs may also be taken during the event. By registering for this event, you give My Community full rights to use the photos for marketing and publicity.
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- Visit mycommunity.org.sg to learn about our initiatives.
- Visit mycommunityfestival.sg for all our latest updates.
