Nadi lawyer Faizal Koya has called on members of the Ma’unatul Islam Association of Fiji to pray for his recent appointment as Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Mr Koya confirmed his new appointment while speaking to those gathered at the celebration of Prophet Mohammed’s birthday in Ba yesterday,
“I wish to say that the Prime Minister has awarded and appointed me to be the first Muslim to be the ambassador to United Arab Emirates,” Mr Koya said.
“So, I ask you all to continue the support and the friendship and the love we have with Fiji Muslim League, and I ask you all to make dua (pray) for my journey.”
In addition to being the first Muslim in this position, Mr Koya said he would also be consul to the broader Middle East region.
“Praise to Allah that it gives me great opportunity to serve this country, its government, to bring in investors and foster good relationship between our small, developing country and countries in the Middle East.
“I’ve been told that I am not just only the ambassador of United Arab Emirates but I’m a consulate of the entire Middle Eastern region, meaning consulates still have to foster relationships for the entire Middle Eastern region, while I serve the government of the day to bring in investment and foster good relationship.”
He said he was proud of his appointment.
“I am very proud to say that all Sunnis, be it man at the Islam Association and Fiji Muslim League members, I will be closer to the grave of our beloved Prophet Mohammed. I ask you to pray for me.
“It is significant that this appointment came during the blessed month of Rabi ul-Awal. If I had not been walking the right path, I believe this opportunity would not have been given to me.”
