Pakistani community in Oman extends a helping hand

MUSCAT: A heartfelt charity initiative by the Pakistani community in Oman brought Eid cheer to those in need, as new clothes, shoes and pre-loved garments were distributed across Muscat and Al Buraimi governorates ahead of Eid Al Fitr.

Now in its third year, this noble gesture was spearheaded by Social Welfare Volunteer Syed Shaandar Ali Shah Bukhari. Community members, including Shah Mohammed Shirani from Al Buraimi, Ahmed Subhani and Imran Siddiqui, also played key roles in organising an Iftar gathering for the underprivileged, followed by the distribution of clothing and shoes.

The event was graced by esteemed guests, including Dr Syed Naveed Safdar Bokhari, Ambassador of Pakistan, along with dignitaries such as Shaikh Yasser al Zadjali, Member of Municipal Council, Shaikh Dr Hilal Hassan Ali al Lawati and renowned Omani volunteer Azza al Moqbali, affectionately known as the 'Mother of Volunteers.' Several senior community members and professionals from various fields were also in attendance, adding their support to the cause.

Philanthropist Ahmed Subhani emphasised the importance of supporting the underprivileged, stating, “As a community, we ensure that no one is overlooked and we stand together to make a difference.”

Imran Siddiqui echoed similar sentiments, saying, “During the holy month of Ramadhan, it is our duty to extend our help in any way possible to those in need.”

Shaandar Bukhari, the programme’s organiser, shared how the initiative gained momentum through social media appeals, encouraging donations of good-condition clothing. He highlighted the dedicated efforts of Shah Mohammed Shirani, who led the distribution drive in Al Buraimi, ensuring that blue-collar workers received new unstitched fabric and shoes.

This year, more than 300 individuals benefited from the initiative, supported by generous contributions from Iqbal Jaffer of Haseena Jewellers, Mohammad Usman of MoneyGram, Khurram Shahid of Omantel, Zulfiqar Ali Jeweller, Atif Ali of My Perfumes, Imran Toor of Al Ravi, Zeeshan Shakir of Al Naeem Path and Aisha Adeel of Husn Al Ain.

Reflecting on the journey, Bukhari expressed gratitude, saying, “This initiative began as a tribute to my late father, when I appealed for donations of pre-loved and new clothes so the needy could wear them for Eid prayers. The overwhelming community support has brought us to the successful third edition of this initiative today.”