Deputy Speaker lauds services of Galle Muslim Cultural Assn

The Galle Muslim Cultural Association (Inc) (GMCA) has played a pivotal role during its 50 years to promote peace, harmony and goodwill among various communities, Deputy Speaker Chandima Weerakody said.

He was speaking at the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the GMCA at the Marine Grand Banquet Hall on January 9. Weerakody who was Chief Guest, also officiated at the Golden Jubilee commemorative stamp issue.

The Deputy Speaker commended the founders and those who led the GMCA for their untiring efforts in ameliorating the conditions of the poor and the needy, promoting culture and religion and inculcating good morals among the children and youths.

He praised the work of the members of the organisation. The Deputy Speaker said after the cessation of hostilities and end to terrorism, the need of the hour is peace, harmony, reconciliation and goodwill.

He said institutions such as GMCA are vital to achieve these objectives.

Weerakkody said the President when presenting the last budget had stressed on the important role religious organisations had to play in interfacing culture, community and individual families.

He said Rs 200 million has been allocated in the budget to encourage religious institutions like GMCA to implement such proposals with the participation of local communities.

Bank of Ceylon former Deputy General Manager A Liyawdeen, a founder trustee traced the beginning amongst many obstacles and its achievements and current position as a reputed Muslim cultural organisation in Sri Lanka with branches in UK and USA.

Nearly 500 members and guests were present. Golden Jubilee Celebrations Committee chairman Ziqfy Ismail presided.

Post Master General W P L R Abeyratna, who was the Guest of Honour, presided at the Golden Jubilee Stamp Issuance Ceremony. Urban Affairs Senior Minister A H M Fowzie, Justice Minister Rauf Hakeem, Eastern Province Chief Minister Abdul Majeed and Iranian ambassador Mohamed Nabi Hassani Pour were also present.

-----------

[GMCA prize distribution ceremony]

The Golden Jubilee celebrations will culminate with a public meeting and prize distribution ceremony on January 26 at the Galle Ramparts. As Sheikh Afeefudin Al Jailani Al Baghdadi will be the Chief Guest. Senior Minister A H M Fowzie will be the Guest of Honour. Muhamuadh Rizkhan Rifdhi, winner of the International Quran contest in Mecca will deliver his award winning recital. Sheikh Imadudeen Abu Hijleh, Islamic scholar from Yemen will be the guest speaker under the Chairmanship of GMCA president Dr Nusair Samsadeen.