Welcome to the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand

FIANZ and It's Role

Prior to 1979, the needs of the Muslim community were met by Regional Muslim Associations which were formed in the major cities of NZ. However, it soon became apparent that a national body was required to coordinate the activities of these regional associations and represent Muslims on national and international level. Hence, in September 1979, the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ) was established. For your information, Dr Choudhary was one of the founding members of FIANZ and a past President too. The seven Regional Associations which came together to form FIANZ were:

New Zealand Muslim Association (based in Auckland City) South Auckland Muslim Association (based in Otahuhu) Waikato Muslim Association (based in Hamilton) Manawatu Muslim Association (based in Palmerston North) International Muslim Association of New Zealand ( based in Wellington) Muslim Association of Canterbury (based in Christchurch) Otago Muslim Association (based in Dunedin)

Since its inception 25 years ago, FIANZ has been in the forefront and has played a significant role in the development of the community and to forge common bonding between the Muslims and the wider New Zealand community. It has been playing a central role in protecting and advancing the interest of the Muslim community in New Zealand.

Over the years, we have seen a steady growth in the Muslim population in New Zealand. In the 2001 census, it was recorded that there were about 23,000 Muslims in New Zealand. Today, the figure is said to be hovering around 50,000. However, what is striking is that the face of the Muslim population is changing drastically. The Muslim community today is made up in excess of 42 different nationalities.

In spite of so many different nationalities forming the Muslim community in New Zealand, collectively, we have made great strides along with our fellow Kiwis. We have made and continue to make significant contributions to the overall economic growth of the country. The Halal meat export alone currently stands at NZ$380 million and poised to grow further in the coming years. A large majority of halal meat exported overseas is certified by FIANZ. The substantial contributions made by Muslim-owned businesses particularly in the retail and property sectors are well recognised.

With the progress made by the Muslim community in various areas, it has shown a new found confidence as well as a greater sense of urgency to want to develop faster. As FIANZ continues to play a pivotal role in the community, it is appreciated that we have to work harder and smarter. We realise that we have to be pro-active and creative in our approach and problem-solving and in meeting the needs of the community. Where it is possible, we hope to take a more targeted approach in terms of programmes that would ensure a more focused and effective handling of problems and needs in the community.

For FIANZ to achieve all this, it will require the continued support and goodwill of the Central and Local Governments, other community organisations and the commitment of the volunteers from within FIANZ. If the right synergy is created, it will make FIANZ a fitter, stronger and more able body to serve the community in its march towards progress. There is also a growing need for the Muslims to educate the wider community of what Islam truly is and what it stands for rather than leaving this function to the media which often do not necessarily correctly reflect this in their reports. Many members of the public who do not have much understanding of Islam and Muslims often form their opinion from the news coverage that they see or read. It is the wish of FIANZ to liaise with the Government to prepare brochures and educational materials and to hold seminars and workshops with Government agencies in order to foster and promote better understanding between Muslims and other faiths and indeed the wider community.

Now let me talk briefly about Eid and its significance to the Muslims.

Eidul Fitr means "festival of feasts". For Muslims all over the world we have successfully completed the holy month of Ramadhan. It was observed throughout the world with all sanctity and reverence that it demanded. It was a time for worship and reflection and brotherhood. A month that encouraged us to have care and compassion with our fellow Muslims and Non-Muslims. It inculcated patience, perseverance and everything good.

During Ramadhan, Muslims celebrate life with intense supplication so that they may rejoice in this world and the hereafter. The month of Ramadan was also about doing good work for society. In fact, the Holy Qur'an specifically mentions that people, whether or not they are Muslims should compete in doing good work. Helping the poor and indigent, bringing relief to the needy and orphans, providing safety for the weak members of society are but few examples of good work. The Holy Qur'an states those who do more good deeds during the blessed month of Ramadhan, will receive more rewards than usual. Almighty Allah has also promised His mercy, forgiveness and the saving from hellfire to all Muslims as a reward for fasting in Ramadan.

Eid'ul Fitr is celebrated as the culmination of a month of devotion, sacrifice and sharing with others in the hope that Ramadhan had inscribed in our spirits as human beings principles that will strengthen our efforts to the end. This is an occasion for thanksgiving and forgiveness and signifies openness of the mind. It is undoubtedly, an occasion for family and friends to partake in the good food and to strengthen our friendship and bond.

We are very delighted that we were able to celebrate both the End of Ramadhan and the Silver Jubilee celebrations with all of you in this grand hall of Parliament. I wish to express my gratitude and deep appreciation to Dr Ahsraf Choudhary for assisting us to arranging this very special occasion and the Deputy PM and his Government for allowing us to hold this function at this location.

To all those who are here today, thank you for partaking with us in our celebrations of Eid and the FIANZ Silver Jubilee. I hope you will have an enjoyable evening. My best wishes to all of you for good health, happiness peace and prosperity. May God Bless you all.

Jazak Allah Khair and Wa'alaikumussalaam Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatoh

Javed Khan
President

Speech By Javed Khan, President Of FIANZ At �End Of Ramadhan? And �Fianz Silver Jubilee? Celebrations

FIANZ and It's Role

Now let me talk briefly about Eid and its significance to the Muslims.

Speech By Javed Khan, President Of FIANZ At �End Of Ramadhan? And �Fianz Silver Jubilee? Celebrations