In memory of Al-Hajj Mohammed Aziz Akbar

It is with deep regret and heavy hearts that we  acknowledge the passing of Al-Hajj Mohammed Aziz Akbar JP, CSA, OAM, who died in Auckland, New Zealand, on Thursday 8 January 2026.

Mr Aziz Akbar was acknowledged as a prominent leader within Islamic communities across Fiji, Sydney, and New Zealand. His longstanding dedication to service and leadership in both Muslim and broader Australian circles has left a lasting impact, distinguished by his commitment to fostering inter-community relations and empowering youth leaders.

He is remembered for his integrity, sound judgement, and principled leadership. Mr Aziz Akbar’s efforts focused on bridge-building between communities, promoting organisational governance, and advancing the development of young leaders through meaningful action. His public service transcended distinctions of race, religion, or nationality.

His leadership qualities were evident early on. At nine years old, Mr Aziz Akbar became Assistant Patrol Leader of the newly formed 2nd Toorak Scout Troop. He later ascended to Patrol Leader and progressively held highly responsible positions, culminating in District Scouts Commissioner, within the Fiji Scouts Association until his family migrated to Australia.

Mr Akbar was instrumental in founding the Fiji Muslim Youth Organisation, which now benefits from international recognition. He oversaw its merger with the Fiji Muslim Youth League and served as Chair of the Fiji Muslim Youth Movement International from its inception in 2024 until his death. He represented the Fiji National Youth Council at various regional forum.

Mr Aziz Akbar began full-time employment, after graduating primary school, to support his family and allow his siblings to complete further education.  As a part-time student he completed certificates in bookkeeping and management accounting.

He later graduated from the University of the South Pacific and worked as Administration Manager for the South Pacific Economic Bureau, gaining experience across the region.

Upon relocating to Australia, Mr Aziz Akbar continued his education at the University of Western Sydney. Despite initial challenges, he joined the Scout Association of Australia, eventually serving as Scout Development Manager for New South Wales and receiving the Medal of Merit before retiring in 2000.

Mr Akbar responded to community needs by facilitating the establishment of the Green Valley Jame Masjid and Green Valley Islamic College in Western Sydney. His work included organising cultural events and participating in public outreach, earning official commendations.

He served on the NSW Focus on Drugs committee and the Fairfield Hospital Management Board, advocating for culturally appropriate services.

He co-founded the Australian Multicultural Eid Festival and Fair (MEFF), leading it for over a decade. MEFF has since become Australia’s largest Islamic Eid fair.

Mr Aziz Akbar received numerous accolades, including a Citation of Merit from the NSW Government in 1991 and an Ambassador for Peace appointment from the United Nations International Federation for World Peace in 1994.

In 2004, he was awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for his contributions to Islam, multiculturalism, and peace.

He maintained close ties to the Toorak (Suva) Jame Masjid in Fiji, constructed by his late father, Al-Hajj Salim Akbar, in 1964. Until his untimely demise, Mr Akbar held key positions within several organisations, including CEO of ECS International Security and Investigations, a family business.

In the period preceding his death, Al Hajj Aziz Akbar met with officials from Fiji Muslim League and the Fiji Muslim Youth Movement International to further youth initiatives. He passed away following morning prayers in Auckland. He is survived by his immediate and extended family.

A dinner was scheduled in Auckland that evening by former members of the Fiji Muslim Youth Organisation; however, he passed away earlier that morning after completing Tahajjud and Fajr prayers.

His colleagues and associates have held several memorial sessions in his honour. The family and community extend their prayers for his forgiveness and express gratitude for his lifetime of service.

Mr Aziz Akbar is deeply mourned by his wife Rabia, sons Rizwan, Irfan, Iqraam and daughter Zafirah. He is also survived by his brother Alim Akbar and family, and by his three sisters Nazra, Tazra and Tabassum, along with their spouses, children and grandchildren.