MFIS Year 12 Learners Turn Ramadan Fundraiser into Action in Indonesia
Malek Fahd Islamic School continues to demonstrate its commitment to faith, service and global citizenship through a recent humanitarian initiative led by its Year 12 learners. In collaboration with Human Appeal Australia, 10 MFIS learners travelled to Indonesia to support the construction of a masjid and two classrooms at Al Azkia School in Tenjolaya, Bogor. The project responded directly to the educational and spiritual needs of a local community of almost 1,000 people, with the school itself catering for over 300 students.
This initiative is the direct outcome of funds collected during the Ramadan fundraiser Build Your House in Jannah. The fundraiser, led by Year 12 learners at Greenacre Secondary on March 18, aimed to turn charitable giving into lasting impact. The funds raised during Ramadan were used to build both the masjid and the two classrooms, bringing the original vision of the fundraiser to life.
From Fundraising to Real Impact
The project was the result of seven months of planning, fundraising and coordination. Learners raised $25,000 through the Ramadan Iftaar fundraiser and contributed an additional $10,000 themselves, demonstrating strong ownership and commitment to the cause. What began as a school-based initiative during Ramadan has now materialised into permanent spaces that will serve the Al Azkia School community for generations to come.
This follow-up project reflects the purpose behind the original fundraiser. It shows learners that charitable efforts do not end with fundraising. They continue through responsibility, action and accountability.
A Project Rooted in Faith and Learning
The decision to build both a masjid and classrooms was intentional. These spaces address essential needs within the community. The masjid provides a place for prayer, unity and spiritual growth. The classrooms provide a safe and structured environment for learning, supporting the educational development of hundreds of children.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “Whoever builds a masjid for the sake of Allah, Allah will build for them a house in Jannah.” This teaching formed the foundation of the Build Your House in Jannah fundraiser and guided the learners’ efforts from the outset.
Education also holds a central place in Islam. The Prophet ﷺ taught that seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim. By supporting the construction of classrooms at Al Azkia School, MFIS learners contributed directly to creating spaces where this obligation can be fulfilled daily.
Learners Leading Through Service
Throughout the journey, MFIS Year 12 learners demonstrated leadership through service. They engaged with the local community, worked alongside partners on the ground and gained firsthand insight into the realities faced by families in Tenjolaya, Bogor.
This experience extended learning beyond the classroom. Learners developed empathy, cultural awareness and a deeper understanding of global responsibility. These outcomes reflect MFIS’s commitment to service learning and the development of well-rounded, values-driven graduates.
Guidance and Support on the Journey
The learners were accompanied by four educators who provided leadership and support throughout the project: Sh. Fawaz Kamaz, Mr Omar Merheb, Mr Mohamed Omar (Secondary Teacher), and Mr Muhammad Saeed (Wellbeing Coordinator).
Sh. Fawaz Kamaz provided spiritual guidance and daily reminders on intention and service. Mr Omar Merheb and Mr Mohamed Omar supported learners through organisation, supervision and pastoral care. Mr Muhammad Saeed focused on wellbeing, ensuring learners were supported emotionally and mentally during the trip.
Reflecting on the experience, Sh. Fawaz Kamaz said, “It is inspiring to see our learners channel their faith into action. They have built more than structures; they have built hope and connection for a community that welcomed them wholeheartedly.”
Mr Omar Merheb added, “Alhamdulillah, a rewarding day with a community of almost 1,000 people, and a school catering for over 300 students. The learners’ commitment and energy have left a lasting impact, both spiritually and educationally.”
A Heartfelt Inauguration
The completion of the masjid and classrooms at Al Azkia School was marked by a heartfelt inauguration ceremony. Local families, community leaders and children gathered to welcome MFIS and Human Appeal Australia with warmth and gratitude.
The inauguration reflected unity and shared purpose. Prayers were offered, words of thanks were exchanged and strong bonds were formed between the visiting group and the local community. The masjid and classrooms now stand as lasting symbols of collaboration, faith and education.
A Lasting Legacy
While the physical build is complete, the impact of this initiative continues. The masjid now serves as a spiritual centre for the community, while the classrooms provide access to education for hundreds of learners at Al Azkia School.
For MFIS Year 12 learners, this journey reinforced the values behind their education. It showed that faith, when paired with action, can create meaningful change.
This project stands as a powerful follow-up to the Build Your House in Jannah Ramadan fundraiser, demonstrating how intention, effort and service can transform generosity into lasting benefit for communities beyond our own.