Keralites give thumbs up to drive
abu dhabi — The decision taken by the UAE to observe 2017 as the Year of Giving was hailed by religious leaders and thousands in attendance at an event held in Kozhikode district of Kerala.
Everyone praised the UAE government’s vision to make such a historic declaration at an appropriate time as many countries were in severe crisis and needed all possible help.
The International Milad Conference, held by non-profit sociocultural and educational organisation Jamia Markazu Ssaquafathi Ssunniyya this week in Kozhikode district, saw participation of more than 500,000 people.
Sheikh Aboobacker Ahmed, a spiritual leader in India, said the decision by the UAE President, His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, reflected the path followed by the country.
“The decision taken by the rulers show the UAE is following the footsteps of the late Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan,” the general secretary of All India Sunni Jamiyyathul Ulama said in his Arabic speech. “It’s a crucial time in the history of the world as millions are seeking food and shelter. We should join the UAE’s campaign to help the poor and needy.”
People in their thousands applauded each statement made by the scholar from Kozhikode, who is also known as Kanthapuram AP Aboobacker Musliar.
He told Khaleej Times that the UAE is beacon of hope not just in the Gulf region but on the international scene. He termed the UAE as a symbol of tolerance and benevolence.
“The UAE is well-known for its generosity, kindness and unconditional love for humanity. With innovativeness, creativity and social commitments, the UAE is an icon for rest of the world to follow. The announcement of the Year of Giving will see more charity work from the country. It will also promote spirit of volunteering among citizens,” he added.