Islamic Affairs Ministry Hosts Iftar Banquet in Sri Lanka

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, through its Religious Attaché in India, organized an iftar banquet at the girls’ Arabic language college in Ampara District, Sri Lanka, on the 15th of Ramadan 1446 AH. The event, part of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ iftar program, benefited approximately 350 attendees and was held in a spirit of generosity and Islamic solidarity. Participants expressed their gratitude for the initiative, which reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to serving Muslims worldwide.

Context and Background

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ iftar program is a flagship humanitarian initiative that provides meals to fasting individuals during the holy month of Ramadan. Implemented by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, the program spans numerous countries and aims to alleviate the burden on Muslim communities, especially in regions with limited resources. The girls’ Arabic language college in Ampara District, Sri Lanka, is an educational institution that promotes Arabic language and Islamic studies among young women, empowering them with knowledge and skills. The iftar banquet not only nourished bodies but also strengthened the bonds of faith and community.

Key Details

The event took place on the 15th of Ramadan 1446 AH, corresponding to March 15, 2025, and was organized by the Religious Attaché in India, which oversees Sri Lanka. Approximately 350 students and staff members attended the banquet. The iftar included a variety of traditional dishes, and the atmosphere was one of joy and gratitude. The Ministry’s representative highlighted the Kingdom’s unwavering support for Islamic causes and its dedication to fostering education and welfare. Attendees lauded the initiative, noting that it reflects the Saudi leadership’s care for Muslims globally.

Implications and Impact

This iftar banquet is part of a broader effort by Saudi Arabia to extend its humanitarian reach, particularly during Ramadan. Such initiatives enhance the Kingdom’s soft power and demonstrate its role as a leader in the Islamic world. By supporting educational institutions like the girls’ Arabic language college, Saudi Arabia invests in the future of Muslim youth and promotes moderate Islam. The event also strengthens people-to-people ties between Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka, a nation with a significant Muslim minority. It showcases the Kingdom’s commitment to international cooperation and interfaith harmony.

Vision 2030 Alignment

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 emphasizes global engagement, humanitarian aid, and the promotion of moderate Islam. The iftar program aligns with these goals by showcasing the Kingdom’s generosity and its dedication to serving Muslims worldwide. Through such initiatives, Saudi Arabia reinforces its position as a beacon of Islamic unity and a force for good in the world.

20 Questions

Q1. What was the event hosted by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance?

A1. The Ministry hosted an iftar banquet at the girls’ Arabic language college in Ampara District, Sri Lanka, on the 15th of Ramadan 1446 AH, as part of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ iftar program.

Q2. When did the iftar banquet take place?

A2. The banquet was held on the 15th of Ramadan 1446 AH, which corresponds to March 15, 2025, during the holy month of Ramadan.

Q3. Where was the iftar banquet held?

A3. The event took place at the girls’ Arabic language college in Ampara District, Sri Lanka, a location dedicated to promoting Arabic and Islamic education.

Q4. How many attendees benefited from the iftar banquet?

A4. Approximately 350 attendees benefited from the banquet, including students and staff of the college, who enjoyed a meal provided by the Ministry.

Q5. Which Saudi ministry organized the event?

A5. The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance organized the event through its Religious Attaché in India, which oversees Sri Lanka.

Q6. What is the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ iftar program?

A6. It is a humanitarian initiative by the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs that provides iftar meals to fasting Muslims in various countries during Ramadan, reflecting the Kingdom’s generosity.

Q7. How did participants react to the initiative?

A7. Participants expressed their gratitude and appreciation for the initiative, acknowledging the Kingdom’s ongoing support for Muslim communities around the world.

Q8. What is the significance of the girls’ Arabic language college?

A8. The college provides education in Arabic language and Islamic studies to young women, empowering them with knowledge and skills that contribute to their communities.

Q9. How does this event reflect Saudi Arabia’s role in the Islamic world?

A9. The event demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s leadership in serving Muslims globally and its commitment to humanitarian efforts, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan.

Q10. What is the role of the Religious Attaché in India?

A10. The Religious Attaché in India oversees the Ministry’s activities in India and Sri Lanka, including organizing iftar banquets and promoting Islamic education and welfare.

Q11. How does the iftar program align with Vision 2030?

A11. Vision 2030 emphasizes global engagement and humanitarian aid. The iftar program aligns with these goals by showcasing the Kingdom’s generosity and its dedication to serving Muslims worldwide.

Q12. How many countries benefit from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ iftar program?

A12. The program spans numerous countries across Asia, Africa, and other regions, aiming to reach as many Muslim communities as possible during Ramadan.

Q13. What types of food were served at the iftar banquet?

A13. The banquet featured traditional dishes suitable for breaking the fast, including dates, rice, curry, and other local and Saudi-inspired foods, providing a nourishing meal.

Q14. How does this event strengthen ties between Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka?

A14. The event fosters goodwill and people-to-people connections, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s support for Sri Lanka’s Muslim community and enhancing bilateral relations.

Q15. What is the significance of organizing the event on the 15th of Ramadan?

A15. The 15th of Ramadan is a significant day in the middle of the holy month, and hosting an iftar then adds spiritual value and fosters a sense of community among attendees.

Q16. Who specifically benefited from the iftar banquet?

A16. Approximately 350 individuals, primarily students and staff of the girls’ Arabic language college, benefited from the banquet, enjoying a communal meal.

Q17. How does the Ministry of Islamic Affairs promote moderate Islam?

A17. Through educational initiatives, iftar programs, and support for Islamic institutions, the Ministry promotes moderation, tolerance, and interfaith harmony globally.

Q18. What other humanitarian activities does the Ministry undertake?

A18. The Ministry undertakes various activities such as distributing Qurans, supporting mosques, organizing Hajj and Umrah services, and providing aid during disasters and Ramadan.

Q19. How can other organizations partner with the Ministry for similar initiatives?

A19. Organizations can coordinate with the Ministry’s Religious Attachés or through official channels to collaborate on humanitarian and educational projects that align with the Kingdom’s goals.

Q20. What message does this event convey to the international community?

A20. The event conveys a message of generosity, solidarity, and Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting Muslims worldwide, reinforcing its role as a global humanitarian leader.

Reader Feedback

We value your thoughts. Please share your feedback on this article.

Name *

Message *

Your feedback helps us improve our coverage.