As we know, a devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Türkiye (previously known as Turkey) and Syria on February 6th, 2023 causing widespread destruction. A 7.5 magnitude aftershock followed, worsening the already dire situation. The earthquake has claimed at least 30,000 lives. Over 5,700 structures, including apartment buildings and hospitals, have been damaged or destroyed.
Search and rescue efforts in an apartment destroyed in the earthquake that occurred on the morning of February 6, 2023 in Adana, Turkey.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by this tragedy.
Here is a dua by Mufti Dr Nazirudin Mohd Nasir that you may read:
Translation: “O Allah, heal the sick among them, help their wounded, bless those who have passed among them, help the weak among them, and grant them patience over their tests.”
The harsh winter weather, with temperatures dropping close to freezing in some areas, makes conditions even more difficult for those who are homeless or living outside in the cold for fear of another earthquake. This also complicates search and rescue efforts. According to the World Health Organization, the number of casualties may increase and as many as 23 million individuals, including 1.4 million children, may be impacted by the earthquakes.
In response, the Rahmatan Lil Alamin (Blessings To All) Foundation (RLAF) is partnering with Hayrat Yardim, a Turkish humanitarian aid organization, to gather support for those impacted by the recent earthquake in Türkiye and Syria. The goal is to meet the pressing needs of the affected communities, such as shelter, hot food, bedding, and winter clothing.
RLAF has launched an online collection campaign from February 10th to February 24th to help meet the immediate needs of the survivors and affected communities.
In these difficult times, let us come together to show our love and support for those affected by this disaster. Here are the different ways to donate:
In addition, all mosques in Singapore will have donation boxes labeled "Türkiye & Syria Earthquake Emergency Appeal” from February 10th to February 16th to support the cause.
All donations will be directed through Hayrat Yardim to provide aid to the affected communities. It's important to note that, according to IRAS regulations, these donations are not tax-deductible as they are intended for foreign charitable purposes.
Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. said,
"The best of people are those who bring the most benefit to the rest of humankind."
Let's show our support and donate generously today. Together, we can make a positive change in the world and bring hope and comfort to those who need it most.
The Rahmatan lil Alamin Foundation (RLAF) was set up by the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis) in 2009 to rally the Singapore Muslim Community to radiate the spirit of care and compassion to all, regardless of race, colour or creed. This is a desired attribute of a good Muslim exemplified by Prophet Muhammad s.a.w.
For more information, do visit rlafoundation.org.sg.