The guest and VIPs poses behind the launch banner at Langham Hotel, New Zealand.

, New Zealand – Within 24 hours since the launching of , YAB Pehin Sri arrived in Auckland and officiated Baitulmal New Zealand.  The ambience of a ballroom at Langham Hotel witnessed the heralding of BAITULMAL New Zealand as the blueprint of the future.  In retrospect, it was in Auckland, two years ago (2009), the of RISEAP, YAB Pehin Sri initiated the idea of forming BAITULMAL for Australia and New Zealand.

The ceremony starts off with opening greeting by the Saudi Arabian Consular-General, Mr. Ahmed Al-Johani, President of FIANZ, Dr. Anwar Ghani, of RISEAP, Tuan Haji Mohd. Omar, Trade Minister of New Zealand, honorable Tim Groser and the cum President of RISEAP, .

Dr Ghani in his wecoming speech said the central purpose of Bait Ul Maal would be to benefit the Muslims in New Zealand and to collect funds from the community in New Zealand or overseas in accordance with the rules of the Shariah. “FIANZ would welcome voluntary donations, including sadaqat, atiyaat and zakat by individuals, societies, bodies, institutions or organizations for providing assistance to destitute and needy families, widows, orphans, invalid, infirm and other persons determined by the Board. In terms of the teachings of the Holy Quran, we wish to support such people, save them from hardship and enable them to lead an honorable life in the society,” According to him, the funds collected for Bait Ul Mall will also be used, if necessary to assist the FIANZ affiliated Masjids and Islamic centers to develop their infrastructure and facilities to serve the spiritual and social needs of the increasing Muslim community in New Zealand.

Tim Groser, in his speech, acknowledged the role of the Muslims of New Zealand who have contributed to the country.  The Muslims assimilated well in the mainstream of the country while keeping their religious belief and practice.  The issue of Halal certificate by FIANZ to the country multinational companies helped to boost the export of New Zealand.    There are a number of restaurants and outlets that are halal certified thus provide convenience to the local Muslims and visitors/tourists. Tim Groser remarked “We are a major exporter to Halal products to 47 countries around the world. There are many sensitive issues, which we must understand and resolve to the satisfaction of everyone concerned. We have to be open with Islamic countries and work along with them for mutual benefits,”

Pehin Sri expressed his elated two Baitulmals have been launch within 24 hours after the long awaited 10 years of inspiration. Haji Abdul Taib Mahmud said that Bait Ul Maal represented a ‘Better World and a Better Future for Muslims.’  “Bait Ul Maal is an initiative not just to mobilize funds but also to encourage people to work better, live in peace and harmony with people of other faiths and to engage in dialogue with Governments that are open,” he said.

Pehin Sri said Australia and New Zealand had successfully transformed themselves into multicultural and plural societies, promoting interfaith dialogues and relationships. “There is no minimum or maximum amount required by Bait Ul Maal. Even $1 a week per person would be welcome,” he said and exhorted Muslims to respect the local laws and systems even as they practiced the teachings of the Holy Quran.

The event was also attended by Aalims as well as community leaders from mosques and Islamic centers in the country.  The technical (accounting, administration, manning, software and hardware) aspect of Baitulmal will be assisted by RISEAP and BAITULMAL Sarawak.  Tuan Hj. Abg Shibli and his deputy En. Bollhassan were also present to witness the launching.  They were instrumental in providing technicalities of the fund.

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