Spreading the message of Islam

New Zealand is known globally for being multicultural and diverse. The country is
home to people from many religions, including Muslims. The number of Muslims in
NZ, according to the 2018 census, is 57,276, which is up 24 percent from 46,149 as
per the 2013 census. Muslims constitute about 1.3 percent of the total NZ
population.
Now catering to the Muslims in Auckland, the first Centre (Masjid) of Manukau
Islamic Youth Centre (MIYC) recently opened at St George Street in Papatoetoe.
MIYC is a community organisation that aims to promote understanding and
awareness of Islam among the broader communities of NZ and was formed on 25
August 2020.

Talking about the centre, Idris Murti, Secretary, MIYC, says, “The centre has opened
on 18 March 2022. It will be open for the five daily prayers, Jumuah (Friday) prayers,
and Eid Prayers. We will have the first Eid Prayer at the centre. We are planning to
have many activities for the youth and elders through this centre, such as Quran
classes, Islamic educational lectures, annual youth camps, counselling, and sports
activities. We even intend to have an ‘Open day’ for the non-Muslims.”
The centre aims to serve and foster spiritual and intellectual growth, development,
and unity amongst the wider community through religious, recreational, and social
programs. It is open to both Muslims and non-Muslims. Says Murti, “A centre like this
plays a vital role in this community. It is good for Muslims nearby to attend regularly
and be attached to the masjid. Moreover, having this centre right in the heart of old
Papatoetoe town helps us spread the message of Islam to even non-Muslims from
diverse backgrounds. Muslim or non-muslim, our doors are open for everyone.”
MIYC, through this centre, also wants to raise awareness about problems that are
affecting the youth, such as drugs and alcohol abuse, mental health issues, crimes,
and marital issues, amongst others. Says Murti, “As we know, you will find misguided
and troubled youth worldwide, and NZ is no exception. The centre is here to offer
support to anyone going through substance abuse, mental issues or suicidal thought,
among others who need help. We work with qualified people who can help the
community. Our focus is to teach today’s kids how to be community leaders in the
future and educate Muslims and the wider communities to learn and understand the
peaceful message of Islam.”
Lastly, what are the plans of MIYC? “In the future, we to expand and open more
branches in other cities around NZ. This is where the help of the general community
comes as we are a charity organisation and rely on donations to keep our work
going,” signs off Murti.