The Milton Keynes Muslim Association (MKMA) formally came into being on 5th February 2007. MKMA took over from a very successful Milton Keynes Jumah Society (MKJS) which had organised the Friday prayers in Fishermead, Ramadan events, talks and other activities aimed to help the Muslim community in Milton Keynes.
With an ever increasing Muslim population in Milton Keynes and the more attention that Islam was receiving by not just the press but also the public it was felt that the needs and requirement of MK citizens had outgrown MKJS. The MKJS disbanded and a fresh new organisation (MKMA) was born with a wider scope and a new ethos. MKMA has many goals which can be summarised under three main headings;
(1) Strengthen local community (Woughton and Campbell Park Parish Councils and surrounding areas);
MKMA have an active membership which now boasts over 300 men and women, MKMA have improved the standards at Jummah with a new PA system, a full time khateeb and increased interaction between the management committee and members. MKMA have set up a weekly adult study circle for men and women, a monthly newsletter, monthly talks, a website, applied for charity registration and issued membership cards which, allow members to benefit from discounts at local businesses. MKMA have a women’s sub committee and MKMA are in the process of implementing a lending library, adult and youth football programme, and formal daily children’s education from Monday-Thursday.
(2) Create wider ties with other local Muslim and non Muslim groups;
MKMA attends local events with it’s Dawa Stall, informs people about Islam via articles in the local newspaper and is able to send representatives to local schools and colleges to give talks. MKMA are actively trying to break down the artificial barriers that exist between various mosques and organisations so we can have one unified voice, which will ultimately increase our local standing.
(3) Build the Milton Keynes Islamic and Cultural Community Centre (MKICC);
MKMA have reserved a one acre plot of land in Coffee Hall for a period of 12 months and we are in the initial stages of consultation to build the MK Cultural and Islamic Centre.