The ‘Eid Festival’ held at the Mangere Centre Park on September 1 and 2 was deemed a success, ‘despite minimal support from Islamic Centres,’ organisers of the two day-event said.
The Festival was organised by the New Zealand Muslim Sports Association and the South Auckland Muslim Association in conjunction with the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ), supported by Apna Radio 990 AM, the Council of Christians and Muslims and the Counties Manukau Ethnic Council.
“The conclusion part of the countrywide ‘Islam Awareness Week’ programme was held on September 1 at the Park.
“We were disappointed that the officials of many Islamic Centres were not present at the Festival,” President of New Zealand Muslim Sports Association Israr Shaikh said.
“But we were happy to have in our midst people of diverse faiths and cultures, promoting goodwill and friendship. There were games for children and several items including food sold at various stalls. Apna 990 Am entertained people with music, quiz and recitations from the Holy Quran.”
Mr Shaikh said that sports enthusiasts enjoyed volleyball, golf and soccer games held in various categories.
“Labour MP Sua Willian Sio reminded people to make their own choice on the ‘Marriage Amendment Bill’ allowing ‘Same-sex Marriage,’ which has led to widespread debate in the public domain apart from the New Zealand Parliament,” he said.
