Manama: The Jaafari Endowments Council convened its annual meeting with the heads of community centres (maatem) and relevant authorities to discuss the organisation of the Ashoora commemoration and Husseini processions. The meeting, chaired by Yusuf bin Saleh Al Saleh, focused on community cooperation and the implementation of safety measures for the upcoming event.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Al Saleh praised the support of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for their dedication to supporting religious rituals, especially during Ashoora. He also acknowledged the contributions of national entities and institutions in ensuring the successful annual commemoration.
The meeting was attended by prominent figures including Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Governor of the Capital Governorate; Isa Sami Al Mannai, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments; Ali bin Shaikh Abdulhussain Al Asfoor, Governor of the Northern Governorate; and Major General Dr. Shaikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Deputy Chief of Public Security. Over 300 heads and representatives of maatem, Husseiniyas, and procession coordinators were also present.
Al Saleh expressed gratitude for the efforts of the Ministry of Interior, led by General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, in maintaining the Kingdom's security and stability. He also appreciated the support from the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and the Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments in supporting places of worship and religious activities.
Health and safety were emphasised as central to the Council's preparations for Ashoora. In partnership with the General Directorate of Civil Defence and the Ministry of Health, the Council has initiated awareness and guidance initiatives for mosques, community centres, Husseiniyas, and hospitality booths. First aid courses, focusing on essential life support and CPR skills, have also been organised for staff working in places of worship.
Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa underscored the importance of community cooperation in serving maatem and Husseini processions during Ashoora, aligning with the directives of the Kingdom's leadership. Isa Sami Al Mannai affirmed the Ministry's support for the Jaafari Endowments Council to ensure a successful Ashoora.
Major General Dr. Shaikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Khalifa highlighted the Ministry of Interior's commitment to a safe Ashoora commemoration and stressed the role of community partnership in maintaining public order. Brigadier Ali Mohammed Al Kubaisi, Director-General of Civil Defence, stressed adherence to safety guidelines and the implementation of security measures during the event.
Dr. Mohammed Al Awadhi, Director of Public Health at the Ministry of Health, detailed the health sector's initiatives during Ashoora, including services at the Imam Hussain Medical Clinic and collaboration with official bodies.
The meeting concluded with an open dialogue between official bodies and maatem representatives, all committed to ensuring the success of the Ashoora season through enhanced community partnership and collaboration among relevant ministries and agencies.