The National Muslim Assembly of Sri Lanka convened and launched at its first annual general meeting held recently at Jetwing Colombo Seven. Inaugurated by a collective of Sri Lankan Muslims from private, business, academic and professional spheres alike, the organisation is the first of its kind to comprise four key Muslim ethnic groups in Sri Lanka, namely the Sri Lankan Moors, Sri Lankan Malays, Sri Lankan Memons and the Sri Lankan Dawoodi Bhorahs.
The National Muslim Assembly (NMA), is a non-political, non-sectarian civil organisation formed to provide eminent civil representation in all matters relevant to the community.
Conceptualised by a cross section of Sri Lankan Muslims, referred to as the ‘Architects of the Assembly’, the NMA is intended to function as a catalyst towards working for the common good of not just Sri Lankan Muslims, but for all Sri Lankans alike with a commitment to representation and accountability through the best talents and resources the Sri Lankan Muslim community has to offer.
The NMA is led by one of Sri Lanka’s most eminent medical luminaries, Prof. Kemal Deen, who serves as Chairperson. Joining him on the Board of the NMA are: Afzal Marikar (Vice Chair), Khuzaimah Jafferjee (Vice Chair), Zaharine Hameen (Secretary) and Sabry Ghouse (Treasurer).
The NMA is constituted by the following members: Mohamed Adamaly, Aman Ashraff, Zuraish Hashim, Suhail Jamaldeen, Aisha Sattar and A.G.M. Yaseen.
“It’s time for us to come together as a nation” Kemal Deen said, “and the NMA is an unprecedented first step because it is the first civil body comprised of Sri Lankan Muslims from all four ethnic groups. We are united by one common fact, which is that we are all Sri Lankans. That acknowledgement in itself, is of paramount significance.”
For further information on the NMA, write to them via: [email protected]