10/06/2026
Community Majlis & Ta’aruf Session (Get to Know SEAIC UK) | 31 May 2026
📍Coventry, UK
On Sunday, 31 May 2026, SEAIC UK had the opportunity to meet members of the Southeast Asian Muslim community in Coventry through a special Community Majlis and Ta’aruf Session.
The gathering began with a recitation from Surah Al-Ma’idah by Hafidh Adib, highlighting Allah's command:
"Cooperate with one another in goodness and righteousness, and do not cooperate in sin and transgression." (5:2)
This verse beautifully set the tone for the evening as we reflected on the importance of working together to strengthen our community and preserve our faith for future generations.
The session continued with an introduction to SEAIC UK by our General Manager, Mr Rusydi, and Trustee, Mr Amer. They shared the humble beginnings of this work, which started almost 15 years ago under the leadership of our CEO & Executive Imam, Shaykh Zaki. What began as small Quran and Islamic knowledge classes after restaurant operating hours at TukDin Restaurant gradually expanded into gatherings in community homes and eventually led to the establishment of our own mosque, Sofa London Mosque, in 2018.
They also explained the recent rebranding from The Suffa Educational Foundation to the South East Asian Islamic Council (SEAIC UK). As our work grew beyond education and community programmes, it became clear that the organisation was serving a wider role for the Southeast Asian Muslim community.
Today, SEAIC UK functions similarly to Islamic councils such as JAKIM in Malaysia and MUIS in Singapore, providing services including zakat collection and distribution, nikah services, shahadah and convert care, funerals, aqiqah, Islamic education, pastoral support and community development.
The evening then continued with a short reminder by Mr Rusydi on the importance of seeking knowledge. He reminded us of the hadith of the Prophet (SAW) that seeking knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim. This refers first and foremost to Fardhu'ain knowledge — knowing Allah SWT, understanding our faith, learning how to worship correctly, and living according to the teachings of Islam.
He further emphasised that the life of the Prophet (SAW) is the perfect example for every Muslim. From the smallest matters, such as how we wear our shoes, to the greatest responsibilities of leadership and governance, the Sunnah provides guidance for every aspect of life. By striving to follow the example of the Messenger of Allah (SAW), we develop greater consciousness of Allah and find deeper meaning and purpose in our daily lives.
The gathering concluded with an engaging Q&A session, where community members asked thoughtful questions and learned more about SEAIC UK's work and vision. The evening ended with good food, warm conversations and new friendships.
We thank everyone who attended, contributed, and brought food for the gathering. May Allah place barakah in this effort, strengthen the bonds within our community, and allow us to meet again in goodness and remembrance of Him. Ameen.
🏛️ Support the first independent Majlis Agama Islam for the UK → seaic.uk/give
