SAHEED M RISMY AND RUZAIK FfAROOK
COLOMBO – The All Ceylon YMMA Conference commemorated its Founders’ Day at the historic Ghaffoor Hall of Zahira College, Colombo, Chaired by the National President Amhar M Shareef . marking a significant moment of reflection and recommitment to its primary values of Peace, Unity, and Discipline.
The event was graced by esteemed personalities, including keynote speaker MM Zuhair, PC, and Chief Guest Faisz Musthapha, PC.
Delivering the keynote, M M Zuhair, PC, emphasized the historic and spiritual significance of Founders’ Day, coinciding with what he described as the “Prophets’ Day” for the YMMA Movement. He noted that this day is a milestone not only in the history of the organization but also in the broader narrative of Muslim social activism in Sri Lanka.
He underscored the YMMA’s longstanding commitment to education and community development, asserting that the organization must serve as a pillar among other civil society actors while staying true to its non-political ethos—yet never turning a blind eye to pressing political and national issues.
“Education and education alone must be our mantra,” said Zuhair, as he emphasized that scholarships and educational support should not be limited to the economically disadvantaged alone. “Scholarship programs must prioritize merit and relevance, ensuring that all deserving individuals—regardless of their economic background—are encouraged and supported.”
Zuhair further advocated for the YMMA to remain engaged with national and international issues affecting both the Muslim community and the wider country. “Debate and dialogue on contemporary challenges are essential,” he stated, urging the youth to look up to Dr. A.M.A. Azeez as a role model of intellectual courage and public service.
He highlighted the need to invest in youth leadership, proposing initiatives such as the “Future Muslim Leaders” program and enhanced inter-community dialogue, drawing upon the experiences of past YMMA-trained leaders like Shihar Hasan. “The challenge of the future can only be met with courage, and it is our responsibility to prepare our youth for that journey.”
Address by Chief Guest Hon. Faisz Musthapha, PC
In a heartfelt speech, Chief Guest Faisz Musthapha, PC, shared his personal connection with the YMMA movement. Although not a member himself, he expressed deep respect and admiration for its work and principles. “It is always a privilege and honor to be among you. I never miss a YMMA invitations,” he stated warmly.
Tracing his roots to the rural village of Madawala in Kandy, Musthapha noted that while he is not a Zahirian, but a proud Trinity College alumnus and rugby enthusiast, his respect for Zahira College and Dr. A.M.A. Azeez runs deep. He highlighted how his father was a member of the Kandy YMMA and how his brother, Rais Musthapha, served as the President of the Katukele YMMA.
Addressing the future of the YMMA, Musthapha echoed Zuhair’s call for systematic and inclusive leadership development, emphasizing the need to moderate and structure challenges in a way that provides real opportunities for young people to lead.
He paid rich tributes to Dr. A.M.A. Azeez, recalling his visionary leadership during critical times in the country. “Dr. Azeez’s initiatives in education and agriculture, particularly in the Eastern Province, were revolutionary. He didn’t just serve Zahira College; he served the nation,” he noted.
Musthapha also recounted the Ceylon Muslim Scholarship Fund initiated by Dr. Azeez, aimed at uplifting the community through education. He highlighted personal stories of social responsibility, like his grandfather’s practice of keeping a till at home for charitable donations, symbolizing the grassroot ethics of community care.
Reflecting on recent events such as the forced cremation crisis, Musthapha stressed the importance of intra-communal dialogue and resolving internal differences within the Islamic framework, in a way that earns the respect of other communities. “We must not only defend our values but live them in a way that invites appreciation and mutual respect.”
He concluded by urging the community to innovate in their distribution of Zakat and scholarship funds, integrating modern perspectives with traditional values. “Let’s not just aim for change—we must aim for a positive transformation of the world around us.”
The Founders’ Day celebration served not only as a tribute to the past but also as a strategic call to action. Both speakers—MM Zuhair and Hon. Faisz Musthapha—stressed that while the YMMA must remain rooted in its traditions, it must also boldly evolve to meet the future. Their messages resonated with the youth, educators, and community leaders present, reaffirming the YMMA’s mission as a beacon of leadership, education, and unity in Sri Lanka’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious society.
The event was held under the patronage of National President of the YMMA Amhar M. Shareef, along with Founders Day Organizing Committee Chairman Fawzan Anver and Platinum Committee Organizing Committee Chairman Ashroff Rumi with members of the Executive Committee
Students of the Ajward Al Fassy Arabic College conducted Kathamul Quaran in memory of founders of YMMA and Principal of Ajward Al Fassy Arabic College Kaleefathush Shazuli Moulavi Ahamed Sufi Mahlari recited Dua.
A video presentation was presented of past presidents of the last 75 years.
Zahira College Principal Trizviiy Marikkar, Ali Azeez ( son of late Dr. A.M.A. Azeez, Founder President YMMA) and Nisthar Cassim (son of late Lafir Cassim Founder Secretary of YMMA) were present as special guests.
Ambassador Republic of Indonesia Dewi Gustina Tobing , Deputy Ambassador of the State of Palestine Hisham Abu Taha and High Commission of Maldives Counsellor Ali Shareef graced the ceremony.
Professor B A Hussainmiya , Patron of the YMMA Conference Khalid M. Farook, YWMA President Mrs. Fawaza Thaha, Past National Presidents, family members of the founders and members of YMMA were also present.picsby Ruzaik Farook
