Malek Fahd Islamic School Unveils Solar Power Project, Pioneering Sustainability at Hoxton Park Campus

New Solar Initiative, Funded by the Capital Grants Program, Reduces Carbon Footprint and Enhances Learning Opportunities for Students.

Hoxton Park, NSW – 13 November 2024

In the Name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Malek Fahd Islamic School’s Hoxton Park Campus inaugurated its solar energy project, marking a significant step in the school’s sustainability journey. Supported by the Australian Government’s Capital Grants Program, this project highlights the school’s commitment to environmental responsibility and a sustainable future for its community.

Executive Principal Dr. Zachariah Matthews welcomed honoured guests, including Ms. Anne Stanley MP, Member for Werriwa, representing the Hon Jason Clare MP, Minister for Education, who unveiled a commemorative plaque. Also present was Mr. Fayez Moussa, Chair of the MFIS Board, the senior executive team and the Hoxton Park Student Leadership Team. Dr. Matthews expressed pride in the school’s environmental commitment, emphasising that this solar project will reduce energy costs, lower carbon emissions, and increase resources available for enhancing learning experiences. “The Malek Fahd Islamic School community is dedicated to preparing the next generation of leaders, instilling in them a respect for the environment as stewards of the Earth,” he remarked.

Ms. Anne Stanley MP delivered a message of appreciation, thanking Malek Fahd Islamic School for its proactive role in contributing to environmental sustainability and serving the community at large. “This project is a testament to the school’s leadership in sustainability, and I commend Malek Fahd Islamic School for setting a positive example for both its learners and the wider community. Your dedication to creating a greener, more responsible future reflects the values that strengthen our society.”

The solar project consists of 196 solar panels installed in 2023 at Hoxton Park Campus, expanded in 2024 with three tower batteries funded by a $117,443 government grant, providing a total capacity of 120KW. A similar grant was also received for our Beaumont Hills Campus, which included three tower batteries as well. The environmental impact is notable, with an estimated reduction in carbon emissions by 16%, equivalent to planting 727 trees annually. Additionally, the savings on our energy bill will be reinvested to enrich the educational experiences of our young learners, aligning with the school’s motto, “Knowledge is Light.”

A memorable part of the ceremony was a speech by the Year 6 Captain, who shared an Islamic perspective on environmental responsibility. She highlighted the principles of stewardship (khilafah), moderation, and conservation, reminding the audience that Islam teaches a profound respect for the environment and a duty to protect it for future generations. Through Qur’anic teachings and Hadith, she explained, Islam calls for responsible and balanced living, avoiding waste, and actively caring for the Earth. Her words captured the essence of the school’s mission to instill values of environmental respect and accountability in its learners.

The ceremony continued with a heartfelt duaa (prayer) led by Sheikh Abdul Salam, Chaplain of Hoxton Park Campus. Invoking blessings on the project and its contributors, Sheikh Abdul Salam quoted the Qur’an, “It is He who has made you successors upon the Earth,” — Surah Fatir (35:39) underscoring the moral and spiritual responsibility to conserve resources. He prayed, “O Allah, you created this world and gave it into our care, so that in obedience to you, we might serve all people,” seeking guidance in using Creation’s blessings wisely.

The duaa beautifully captured the school’s mission of responsibility, justice, and compassion towards all Creation. The solar project represents a powerful example of how government, community, and school partnerships can create a sustainable legacy for the future.

Acknowledgment of Student Shura Council (SSC) Contributions

Malek Fahd Islamic School extends its sincere thanks to the Student Shura Council (SSC), comprising learners from Years 6 to 12, for their hard work and dedication during the event. Their involvement in the solar project opening reflects the school’s focus on service learning, or “Khidma.” By participating, the SSC members demonstrated their commitment to the community and the environment, embodying compassion and responsibility. Their efforts helped make the event a success and showcased the positive impact young people can have when encouraged to contribute to meaningful causes. The contributions of the SSC underscore the school’s mission to nurture future leaders who are mindful of their social and environmental responsibilities.

In his closing remarks, Sheikh Fawaz, the Chaplain at Malek Fahd Islamic School, shared a profound hadith that emphasizes optimism, hard work, and the continuity of good deeds, even in challenging times. He quoted the words of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him): “If the Hour (the Day of Judgement) is about to be established and one of you is holding a sapling, let him take advantage of even one second before the Hour is established to plant it.” (Musnad Ahmad, 12902).

Sheikh Fawaz explained that this hadith beautifully conveys the importance of being proactive and contributing positively to the world until the very last moment. It highlights Islam’s encouragement for productivity, optimism, and leaving a legacy of goodness. He expressed his hope that the solar project will serve as an enduring example of the school’s commitment to sustainability and its aspiration to leave a lasting positive impact on the community and the Earth.

Together, let us continue to support initiatives that illuminate the path to a brighter and more sustainable tomorrow.