On Saturday 26 July 2025, the Muslim healthcare community in Queensland celebrated a major milestone with the launch of two new regional chapters of the Australian Islamic Medical Association (AIMA) in the Sunshine Coast and Bundaberg. These inaugural events brought together healthcare professionals, students, and community members in gatherings marked by professional insight, spiritual reflection, and growing community connection.
The Sunshine Coast event was held at Millwell Community Centre, warmly welcomed by Dr Maureen Khan, the newly appointed Chapter Lead. The program began with a Qur’an recitation by Hamza Jean, a University of the Sunshine Coast exercise physiology student. This was followed by a tazkirah from AIMA National Vice President and Neuropsychiatrist Dr Omer Shareef, reflecting on purpose, service, and how healthcare professionals embody Islamic values through their work.
At the Bundaberg event, held at The Waves Sports Club, AIMA QLD Vice President Dr Aslam Jabbar opened with a Qur’an recitation, followed by Dr Shareef’s tazkirah on intention and faith in medical practice. Dr Gul E-Rana, the newly appointed Chapter Lead, welcomed attendees and expressed her excitement for the future of the chapter.
At both events, AIMA QLD Secretary and Student Lead Mustafa Hamimi introduced the Student and Junior Medical Officer wing, highlighting its focus on networking, mentorship, career development, and faith-based leadership. The strong student attendance, particularly in the Sunshine Coast, demonstrated the enthusiasm and potential of the next generation of Muslim healthcare professionals.
AIMA National President Dr Muhammad Afzal Kahloon delivered the keynote addresses at both launches. He outlined AIMA’s broad scope of work, from community health initiatives and educational workshops to advocacy and professional development. Dr Kahloon emphasised the importance of Muslim healthcare professionals contributing positively to both the Muslim community and the wider Australian society through compassionate care and cultural understanding.
AIMA QLD President Dr Abid Majid concluded both events by reflecting on the success of the 2025 National AIMA Conference in Melbourne and announcing that Queensland has been selected to host the 2027 National Conference, InshaAllah.
Each event concluded with valuable networking opportunities: a lunch in Bundaberg and an evening gathering on the Sunshine Coast, where participants built connections and strengthened their shared sense of purpose.
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