For the Dawoodi Bohras of Singapore, Iftar in Ramadan took a sustainable turn this year as they gifted tea thermoses to community members to avoid using disposable items.
Each Ramadan, the community centre at Masjid al Burhani is a buzz of activity, as community members gather for 30 days to pray and to break their fast in the evenings. Previously, tea was served in styrofoam cups but for the past two years, a group of young volunteers have taken the initiative to a more sustainable approach.
“We are always looking to improve on our previous experiences, especially when it comes to promoting environmental sustainability” said Alihusain Baji, a 31 year-old graduate of mathematics and economics.
“It’s exciting to try previously unexplored project ideas as it gives me the space to be creative with my volunteering and shape it in new ways,” he continued.
Dr Abdulqadir Aziz, an aerodynamic engineer, who has been at the forefront of this endeavour, said, “We put a lot of thought into how to materialise this as we knew it was breaking a long established habit. We thought the best way forward was to procure all the cups upfront and give them out as a silat, or a gift.”
Community members have been supportive of the change, especially the elders, who have appreciated the enthusiasm and turnout of young volunteers for this initiative. As one community volunteer put it, “Young people look forward to making an impact and this initiative has certainly given many an opportunity to channelise that intent into action,”
“It’s fulfilling to know that facilitating action to reduce waste and encourage mindful practices can create a meaningful difference in the lives of our community members and the environment,” said Qaizar Shabbar, a volunteer and an undergrad student.
Dr Abdulqadir believes that the positive response is reinforced by the ongoing discussions about sustainability in Singapore.
“This strikes a chord with everyone. There is a lot of positive messaging in public spaces encouraging sustainability and that has reinforced our motivation to help drive this initiative home,” said Dr Abdulqadir.
He is particularly pleased with the fact that there are multiple avenues for volunteers to contribute. Where procurement involved researching and negotiating with the suppliers, the creative team developed marketing ideas to promote the initiative within the community prior to the event.
Their next project is to start a garden using recycled plastic bottles on the grounds of the community centre and take up composting and e-waste recycling drives down the line.
This initiative is in line with other similar initiatives by Dawoodi Bohra communities in Melbourne, Karachi and Philadelphia to promote sustainability at their community centres.