Prominent Muslim Community Leader Sheikh Abdus Salam has passed away
Innalillahi Wa Inna Ilaihi Rajiun. [To Allah we belong, and to Him is our return.]
The founding Ameer of Da’watul Islam UK & Eire, Sheikh Abu Khizir Muhammad Abdus Salam, popularly known as AKM Abdus Salam, has passed away peacefully in his sleep, on 2nd September 2022, in Walthamstow, England. His death has cast a shadow of mourning across the Islamic Community in Britain.
Sheikh Abdus Salam originates from Muktarpur, Usmani Nagar, Sylhet, Bangladesh. He came to the UK in the 60s and was from the outset committed to promoting Islamic values. He was instrumental in establishing Islamic institutions which included mosques, Islamic educational institutions and charitable organisations (such as Muslim Aid). Although small in stature he was seen as a giant of a man in terms of his vision and understanding. Those who knew him are full of admiration and recall his smiling face.
Sheikh AKM Abdus Salam was not only the founding Ameer of Da’watul Islam, he was also a founding member and the third President of UK Islamic Mission (UKIM). Both organisations continue to make significant contributions in British society.
Dr Hammad Lodhi, President of UK Islamic Mission said, “He was from the generation of leaders that were blessed by Allah with the vision and capabilities to navigate the Ummah [Muslim community] through serious challenges and keep them united. They showed hope when chips were badly down. May Allah accept his services to the community and grant him a place amongst the highest ranks of Jannatul Firdaus (paradise).”
Condolences are pouring in from family and friends. He was known all over the Muslim world by leading thinkers, scholars and politicians.
The present Ameer of Dawatul Islam, Sheikh H.M. Abu Sayeed said, “He dedicated his life in the service of Islam and the interests of Muslims and has been instrumental in organising Islamic Dawah work since the 1970s. We have not only lost a dearly loved Muslim brother but the entire Muslim community in the UK has lost a great leader. We pray Allah accepts all his good deeds, forgive all his sins and grant him Jannatul Firdous. We join his loved ones in mourning and pray that Allah calm their hearts and envelop them in his Divine Mercy, blessing and love, Ameen.”
Sheikh AKM Abdus Salam was born on 2nd May 1935. He was 87 years old at the time of death. He is survived by a son and two daughters and many relatives and friends in the UK and abroad. He will be buried in Waltham Forest Muslim Burial Trust (Folly Lane), 16 Peacock Cl, Walthamstow, London E4 8TX, England.
Press release.
