Events

Born into a religious family, his father was among the early Muazzins of Jummah Mosque, Port Louis. He pursued his secondary education at the prestigious Royal College, Port Louis, before graduating from Aligarh Muslim University in India, where he studied History. During his university years, he actively participated in the student movement and served as Secretary of the Student Islamic Movement of Aligarh University.

Upon returning to Mauritius, he founded the Islamic Movement of the University of Mauritius, which started with around 30 members and later became known as the Students Islamic Movement (SIM) of Mauritius. His leadership and vision transformed SIM into a dynamic and influential organization..

Abdul Khaleck played a pivotal role in organizing Islamic camps for Muslim students, emphasizing both spiritual development and camaraderie. He introduced the English translation of Tafheem-ul-Quran (Towards Understanding the Quran) by Abul Ala Maudoodi, underscoring the importance of understanding the Quran to strengthen one’s faith. His leadership by example created a deep sense of unity among SIM members—whether cooking, cleaning, or being the last to eat, he embodied humility and service. His message was clear: young people could enjoy leisure time while staying firmly rooted in Islamic principles. Many participants in these camps came from elite colleges and educational institutions, reinforcing the movement’s reach and influence.

In its early days, SIM, under Abdul Khaleck’s guidance, encouraged the active participation of women, leading to the formation of the Women’s Islamic Movement.

Bridging Divisions Within the Muslim Community

In the 1970s, the Muslim community in Mauritius was deeply fragmented along caste and theological lines. Through his unwavering commitment to unity, Abdul Khaleck brought together diverse groups under a common cause for Islam. One of his landmark achievements was organizing the first lecture by Dr. Ahmad Sakr at Jummah Mosque Hall, which attracted an audience from all schools of thought. He later facilitated Dr. Ahmad Totonji’s lecture at Noor-Ul-Islam, Port Louis—an event that remains a historic milestone in Mauritian Islamic discourse. To this day, SIM continues this legacy of inclusivity and scholarship.

A Visionary Organizer and Leader

Abdul Khaleck was the driving force behind the ‘First Indian Ocean Islamic Conference,’ held at Royal College, Port Louis. This event brought together participants from the Netherlands, South Africa, Tanzania, Seychelles, and the USA. Among the esteemed guests was Sir Abdul Razack Mohammed. Under his leadership, SIM expanded significantly, establishing approximately 25 branches across Mauritius.

Through his initiative, the first Islamic Centre and Bookshop were established at Makoojee Center, Deforges Street, later moving to Corderie Street, opposite Markazi Mosque.

Service to the Community and Humanitarian Efforts

Abdul Khaleck dedicated himself to assisting thousands of ordinary Muslims and professionals in securing job opportunities in Saudi Arabia. Appointed as a representative of Saudi-Oger, he facilitated recruitment free of charge. He also played a key role in selecting the first batch of Mauritian medical doctors for employment in Saudi Arabia.

He led various SIM departments, including Islamic Education, Audio-Visual, Bookshop, Translation, Publication, and the Islamic News Agency. He was a steadfast advocate for Muslim Personal Law and spearheaded major demonstrations, including the largest protest against the invasion of Afghanistan.

Pioneering Zakaat Collection and Distribution

One of Abdul Khaleck’s major contributions was in the field of Zakaat collection and distribution. With the support of students and lecturers from the University of Mauritius, he conducted an economic survey of the Muslim community. Alongside Br. Zaid Ozeer, he established Local Zakat, ensuring that Zakaat funds were collected and distributed within Mauritius. One of the most successful projects was the Bait-Ul-Mall of Beau-Bassin, which raised over Rs.3 million.

Contributions to Islamic Literature and Education

He initiated SIM News and Renaissance Islamique, along with other publications. He also supported the translation of the Quran into Creole by Dr. Hussein Nahaboo, making Islamic teachings more accessible to a wider audience

Establishment of the Islamic Centre

Abdul Khaleck was instrumental in proposing the first Islamic Centre project to the Islamic Development Bank, which approved its implementation. Despite bureaucratic challenges that diverted allocated funds, he remained steadfast in his vision and proceeded with the purchase of land in Moka, now home to the Islamic Centre known as Ory-View.

A Lasting Legacy

Abdul Khaleck Ramtoolah is survived by his wife, Rosenbee, his son, Abdul-Rahman, and his daughter, Sakeena.

May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Jannat-ul-Firdous. His legacy of dedication, service, and leadership continues to inspire us all. We will forever remember him in our prayers, as he touched and transformed so many lives.

“I understand commitment through the training our Islamic Movement gave us, through our Amir, Abdul Khaleck Ramtoolah.”

— Anwar Yousouf Cara, Leicester, UK
1st Ramadhan 1446

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