UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, in partnership with the Sheikhul Islam and the Council for Humanitarian Networking of Sheikhul Islam Office revealed their first collaboration that will take place during the holy month of Ramadan; aiming at encouraging Muslim communities to donate to support UNHCR to provide life-saving assistance to refugees who are not able to observe Ramadan in their own homes and countries.
“Humanitarian principles share the same core values with the fundamental teaching of every religion; to have sympathy toward fellow human beings in need regardless of race or nationality.” Arunee Achakulwisut, Associate Private Sector Partnerships Officer stated “With global forced displacement reaching the highest level ever, we need to unite and lend our hands to others.”
The global refugee crisis has forced 65.6 million people to flee from their countries reaching the highest level since WWII; the statistics continues to grow.
“War, conflict and persecution force innocent people to become refugees.” Dr.Zakee Phithakkumpol, Deputy Secretary of Sheikhul Islam said. “It’s not by choice for one person to be a refugee, they have to leave everything behind and seek asylum in a country that is not their own. Refugee crisis requires the global community’s attention and support to improve the quality of living for those forced to flee.”
During Ramadan, many Rohingya refugees observe the holy month in exile. These women, men, and children have endured dangerous and traumatic journeys to seek asylum in a safe country. Now, they are facing another crisis when the monsoon rains hit Bangladesh.
“Ramadan is a very important time for Muslims to reflect on the hardships occurring around the world. It is an opportunity to share what we have with those less fortunate” stated Dr.Wisoot Binlateh, Director of the Southern office of Sheikhul Islam’s affairs and Coordination Thailand. “Ramadan is a valuable time for family and community bonding, and to think of those who are not able to be with their loved ones during the holy month.”
UNHCR’s Goodwill Ambassador in Thailand, Praya “Pu” Lundberg, supports this partnership. “I am truly honoured to see this important collaboration to support refugees, I am deeply appreciate the Sheikhul Islam Office’s demonstration of kindness and generosity towards refugees” Praya said, “During the month of Ramadan, I encourage you to donate to UNHCR’s work”.
As one of the partners for humanitarian cause, the Council for Humanitarian Networking of Sheikhul Islam Office is supportive of UNHCR’s mission to help refugees. Fund raised from this campaign will allow UNHCR to provide emergency shelter for Rohingya refugees who are residing in areas of high risk of landsides and flooding in Bangladesh. Donations will be spent during and after the Ramadan to make a difference to the lives of refugees especially the most vulnerable people such as orphans, single mothers or widows.
Donation can be made at;
Bank Account: The Council for Humanitarian Networking of Sheikhul Islam Office for Rohingya and Refugees
Islamic Bank of Thailand: 034-108-7440 or www.unhcr.or.th
#RamadanforRefugees
