The year 2009 was marked by a vibrant series of religious and cultural activities that brought the Sri Lankan Muslim community in Qatar closer together. Through Islamic lectures, Ramadan programmes, Eid celebrations, and family-oriented gatherings, the community continued to strengthen its spiritual foundations while preserving its rich cultural heritage. These events provided valuable opportunities for worship, learning, and fellowship, reinforcing the values of unity and faith that have long guided the organization.
The year commenced with a successful Islamic Lecture Programme held in January at Jawhara Hall. Organized jointly with the Sri Lankan Islamic Centre (SLIC) Qatar, the event attracted a large gathering of families eager to benefit from religious guidance and spiritual reflection. The lecture delivered by Moulavi Ziyaudeen set a positive tone for the year’s religious activities and encouraged greater participation in future programmes.
Throughout the year, the organization conducted several Islamic Lecture Series featuring respected scholars and speakers from Sri Lanka. Among the distinguished personalities who addressed the community were Sheikh Yoosuf Mufti, Moulavi Ibrahim, and other notable Islamic speakers. Their lectures covered various aspects of Islamic teachings and personal development, helping participants strengthen their understanding of faith and apply Islamic values in their daily lives.
Religious learning among younger generations continued through the organization's Bi-Weekly Qur’an Classes, which remained an important platform for nurturing Islamic knowledge among children. These regular sessions helped cultivate a deeper appreciation for the Qur’an while encouraging the development of strong moral and spiritual values within the community.
A major highlight of the year was the observance of Ramadan through the SLMQ Family Ifthar Programme. The gathering brought together families in an atmosphere of worship and brotherhood to break their fast collectively. During the event, Br. Imran Abu Musa delivered an inspiring lecture on the theme of Thawba (Repentance), emphasizing spiritual renewal and the importance of seeking Allah’s mercy. The programme was well attended and served as a meaningful occasion for reflection during the holy month.
The spirit of Ramadan extended beyond the family gathering through participation in several community-wide ifthar events. The organization collaborated with the Qatar Guest Center for its annual Ramadan programme for the Sri Lankan community. Another significant event was the Ifthar Programme organized in association with the Ministry of Interior and Sheikh Al Thani Bin Abdulla Foundation for Humanitarian Services, where the community gathered for worship, fellowship, and spiritual enrichment. The programme featured a lecture by renowned Islamic scholar Sheikh Agar Mohamed, Deputy Director of Jamiyya Naleemiah, whose address was highly appreciated by attendees.
Religious celebrations continued with the organization of Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha Prayers at the Sri Lankan Embassy premises. These gatherings brought together large numbers of worshippers who joined in collective prayer and celebrated the joyous occasions with family and friends. The increasing participation each year reflected the growing strength and unity of the Sri Lankan Muslim community in Qatar.
Adding a festive cultural dimension to the year’s activities was the much-anticipated Eid Fiesta, held following Eid-ul-Adha celebrations. Families gathered for a day filled with recreation, social interaction, and cultural enjoyment. The programme created a welcoming environment where members of all ages could celebrate together, strengthening friendships and reinforcing the sense of belonging within the community.
Another meaningful event during the year was the Felicitation Programme for Sri Lankan Reverts to Islam. More than thirty participants attended the gathering and shared their personal experiences after embracing Islam. The programme provided an opportunity for community members to welcome and encourage the new Muslims while fostering stronger bonds of brotherhood and mutual support. Gifts were distributed to participants, making the occasion both memorable and uplifting.
Reflecting on the year, 2009 stands as a period of spiritual growth, religious learning, and cultural celebration. Through initiatives such as the Islamic Lecture Programme, Islamic Lecture Series, Bi-Weekly Qur’an Classes, SLMQ Family Ifthar Programme, Community Ifthar Gatherings, Eid Prayers, Eid Fiesta, and the Felicitation Programme for Sri Lankan Reverts, the community continued to strengthen its commitment to faith, unity, and Islamic values. These activities not only enriched the spiritual lives of participants but also reinforced the enduring bonds that unite the Sri Lankan Muslim community in Qatar.