The Muslim News - Sir David launches Armed Forces Muslim Association

Issue 246, Friday 30 October 2009 - 12 Dhu al-Hijjah 1430

Sir David launches Armed Forces Muslim Association

By Ahmed J Versi

The new Chief of the Armed forces, General Sir David Richards, who launched a new support network for Muslims in the armed forces said it “reflects the growing numbers, importance and relevance of their service and superb contribution they are making to the armed forces in the UK.”

The Armed Forces Muslim Association (Afma), which was launched at RAF Northolt in North West London on October 9, will allow people to meet up with others of the same faith and also aims to “forge closer relationships with Islamic communities across the UK.”

General Sir David Richards, who is the Patron of the Afma, said that he was “delighted” and “honoured” to be its first Patron and that the body will make a “huge value in raising awareness and mutual understanding” in the armed forces. He added that the Afma would help to recruit from the Muslim community.

The General said Muslim soldiers, sailors and airmen were “serving the United Kingdom with such distinction today and I have no doubt, in the future.”

Sir David said: “It is right that these outstanding people have an organisation around which their views and aspirations can coalesce.”

Afma will have its own website that provides a secure chat forum for members of the Forces and gives users the opportunity to put questions to Imam Asim Hafiz, the first Muslim Chaplain to the Armed Forces. The Imam believes that Afma will provide support not only to Muslim members of the Armed Forces but also to commanding officers. He said: “The make up of Armed Forces is increasingly becoming a mirror of modern day Britain.”

The Imam said initiatives like the Afma will help to “further boost the morale and confidence of Muslims that serve within the Services. We can also play a crucial role in helping the Armed Forces to better understand and meet the needs of Muslims within the demands of Service life. We can also play pivotal role in bridging the gap between the Muslims within the military and Muslims in the community.”

Afma’s Chairman, Group Captain Zahur Ul-Haq, said the organisation may also help to change public perceptions of Islam. “There is growing perception that Muslims are not integrated into mainstream society and are anti-establishment – this is a myth. Muslims are playing a vital role across all aspects of the political and economic environment. In the British Armed Forces, Muslims have been extremely successful and currently hold a number of senior positions. The fact that we are willing to die for our country is a testament of our loyalty and our desire to protect the values that we all share.”

(Photo: General Sir David Richards talks to Group Captain Ulhaq, Iman Asim Hafiz and Cpl Mohsin Ali Mughal on arriving at the launch of the Armed Forces Muslim Association at RAF Northolt)