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    Following is a speech by the Secretary for Home Affairs, Dr Patrick Ho, at the fund-raising dinner for the redevelopment and extension of the Kowloon Mosque and Islamic Centre held by the Incorporated Trustees of the Islamic Community Fund of Hong Kong today (May 14)(English only):

Mr Saeed Uddin, Mr Zoheir Tyebkhan, honourable guests, ladies and gentlemen,

I am honoured to be here tonight to take part in this meaningful fund-raising event.

Our Muslim community has been with us since the nineteenth century.  Together we have witnessed the growth of Hong Kong from a small fishing village to a vibrant international city.  Many will agree that the Muslim community has made great contribution to the success of Hong Kong.  I believe that the most important thing is, all of you have treated Hong Kong as your home.

The Kowloon Mosque has long been the symbol of Hong Kong Muslims.  It is also one of the prominent landmarks in Hong Kong.  Situated in the centre of the Tsim Sha Tsui area, the Kowloon Mosque is a popular gathering point for Muslims, and is frequently patronised by visitors from the local community and tourists from all over the world.

The Board of Trustees of the Islamic Community Fund of Hong Kong is one of the pillars of the community.  Apart from taking care of the spiritual needs of the community, the Board also puts much effort in providing community services.

The Board of Trustees has undertaken the renovation and expansion project to enhance the services to be provided in the Kowloon Mosque.  With the support and generous donations from the community, the project has commenced and is under good progress.

I wish the Board of Trustees every success in the project and look forward to visiting the mosque after the completion of the renovation.

Thank you.

Ends/Saturday, May 14, 2005

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