In a touching and momentous gathering at the Lakemba Senior Citizen Centre, the Ashabul Kahfi Language School (AKLS) marked its remarkable 25 years of unwavering service on Saturday 25 November 2023, by directing attention to the ongoing struggle in Palestine.
The event drew an enthusiastic assembly of students and parents, all adorned in symbols and hues representing Palestine, creating an atmosphere of shared reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment to a larger cause.

Students at Ashabul Kahfi Language School (AKLS) showcased their talents in memorising quran.
The proceedings kicked off with Mrs Darliana Abdullah, the esteemed school principal, expressing profound gratitude for the quarter-century journey of AKLS in Sydney. Her opening remarks resonated with heartfelt messages as she extended sincere thanks to parents and attendees for their presence on this special occasion.

Mrs. Darliana Abdullah, AKLS school principal, expressed gratitude for the 25-year journey of AKLS in Sydney.
Mrs Abdullah took the audience on a nostalgic journey, tracing the institution’s inception in 1998, when it was officially registered with Fair Trading. Together with her husband, Sheikh Chalidin Yacob, she initiated modest classes at Punchbowl Public School, a humble start that progressively evolved into a four-day-a-week schedule over the ensuing years.
The principal underscored the institution’s success, attributing it to the blessings from Allah and the steadfast cooperation of parents and guardians. A strong emphasis on moral education, inspired by the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (s), emerged as a hallmark, reflecting a commitment to instilling noble morals in the young minds entrusted to the school’s care.
Amid expressions of congratulations on the 25th Milad, Mrs Abdullah, accompanied by her family, vowed to persist in their efforts, entrusting the results to the divine will. Gratitude flowed toward the parents and every contributor who played a role in the success of this significant event.
Mr Teuku Geumpana, a parent, took center stage, expressing great gratitude to Ashabul Kahfi for its continuous service in educating the Muslim community in Australia. He underlined the critical role of providing top-tier Islamic education, ensuring children grow up with a robust foundation in Islamic practices.

Maulvi Nurhakim (Left), Saiful Tamun Aye (Right) alumni from AKLS delivering their testimonies on AKLS.
Mr Geumpana highlighted the significance of preparing future Muslim generations, instilling a deep understanding of the pillars of Islam, and encouraging the embodiment of Islamic principles in everyday life. He lauded AKLS for its 25 years of unwavering dedication and service.
The event unfolded with captivating performances by AKLS kids, showcasing talents from ages 5 to 15. The young participants exhibited their memorization of all surahs from the last juz of the Quran and delivered articulate speeches. An award ceremony followed, recognizing outstanding achievements across various categories among the student body.

Ustadz Teuku Muhammad Ziyad Al-Khalidi delivered an insightful address to students and parents at the event.
Alumni from AKLS, Maulvi Nurhakim, and Saiful Tamun Aye, delivered a heartfelt message representing their colleagues. They eloquently highlighted the lasting influence of the institution on their lives, emphasizing key elements such as the significance of early Islamic education, active community engagement, and the positive effects of being nurtured in an Islamic environment.
Moreover, the alumni expressed sincere gratitude for the valuable organizational learning experiences they acquired, acknowledging their pivotal role in fostering community development.
Ustadz Teuku Muhammad Ziyad Al-Khalidi, a revered teacher at AKLS, delivered a warm and insightful address to students and parents. He shed light on the school’s pivotal role over the past quarter century in imparting knowledge of the Quran, Ahadeeth, and core principles of Islam.
Beyond education, Ashabul Kahfi as the parent organisation of AKLS has also served as a vital Islamic Centre, fostering community growth, facilitating Islamic marriages, and providing consultation for Muslim families. Ustadz Al-Khalidi also highlighted the growing demand for Islamic schools, emphasizing the urgency of creating an environment where the Islamic community can thrive and continue its positive impact.

8-year-old Aisha, recited a du’a’ to remember the children suffering in Palestine.
The event concluded with a poignant moment as 8-year-old Cut Aisha Rosaline Abdullah, one of the youngest participants, recited a tearful du’a’ to remember the children suffering in Palestine. The day wrapped up with the Dzuhur prayer, followed by a communal lunch where attendees shared food and beverages, solidifying a sense of community and a collective commitment to a shared purpose.
To view a full video of AKLS celebrating its 25th year of service, click here or see below (some parts of the audio are in Bahasa).


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