Nearly 450 people from across Victoria gathered for the KMCC Melbourne Iftar Meet, creating a warm evening of reflection, community connection and shared prayer during Ramadan.
The event, organised by the Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre (KMCC) Melbourne, took place at the Australia Light Foundation Mosque Hall in Tottenham and welcomed a range of political, diplomatic and community figures. Among the chief guests were Victorian MP Lee Tarlamis, MP Steve McGhie, Consul General of India in Melbourne Anish Rajan, Imam Hysni Merja of the Melbourne Grand Mosque in Tarneit, and Imam Iyas Harb of the Melton Muslim Community.
Speakers addressed the gathering before the breaking of the fast, reflecting on the meaning of Ramadan and its focus on generosity, compassion and social responsibility. They praised the role community organisations play in building understanding and supporting families both locally and abroad.
Several guests acknowledged KMCC Melbourne’s ongoing community work and its charitable initiatives supporting people in Australia and India. The remarks focused on the importance of cooperation between communities and the value of gatherings that bring people together across different backgrounds.
KMCC Melbourne Chairman Shiyas Khalid said the organisation was encouraged by the steady growth in attendance at its annual Iftar meet. He noted that participation has increased each year and said organisers are considering a larger venue for future gatherings to accommodate more members of the community.
Khalid also thanked the management of the Australian Light Foundation for providing the venue and supporting the event.
The programme began with a recitation of the Quran followed by the Magrib Adhan, delivered by Asim Azeez. Guests were welcomed by master of ceremonies Rishal, who guided the evening’s proceedings and ensured the programme ran smoothly with clear instructions and announcements.
Following speeches from the invited guests and community leaders, attendees gathered to break their fast together. Plates of dates and traditional food were shared as people prepared for Magrib prayer before continuing the evening meal.
The event was coordinated by members of the KMCC Melbourne executive committee including Hilal, Rishal, Ajees, Haris, Illyas, Jafar, Maanu, Mujeeb, Riyas, Saleem, Shabeeb, Shameer Shamsu and Swafdil. Organisers credited volunteers and supporters whose efforts helped manage the large turnout and ensure the evening ran without disruption.
As the gathering came to a close, families, friends and community leaders continued conversations over dinner, reflecting the sense of connection that Ramadan gatherings often bring to local communities.
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