Despite facing challenges such as language barriers, the tazkirah or religious talk and role as the imam of Sunat Tarawih prayers for the Muslim community in Osaka, Japan were carried out perfectly. The response of the Muslim community to the religious activities was remarkable.
Recalling his first night as the Imam or prayer leader, Awang Muhammad Ekram 'Afif bin Haji Awang Mohd Hanafi, an alumni of Ma'had Qiraat Shoubra, Al-Azhar University, admitted that he felt a little nervous, but managed to overcome the challenge well.
He added, the Islamic community in Osaka needs more preachers to guide them, especially new converts, who often face challenges in understanding and practicing Islamic teachings in Japan.