السلام عليكم ورحمة الله وبركاته

I pray that you are all well InshAllah.

I am sure you have heard about the devastating earthquake that hit the Muslim-majority island of Lombok, Indonesia on Sunday 5th August 2018. This powerful 6.9 magnitude earthquake injured and displaced hundreds of thousands of people, leaving a death toll of 259 (May Allah grant them Jannah). This is still expected to rise.

My family and I were on holiday on the island when the earthquake struck. We were going about our normal day, unknowing that disaster and panic was to set in later on. Words cannot describe this experience.

Around 7:30PM the earthquake struck- the ground shaking vigorously made it impossible to stand, buildings collapsed around us and people screamed for their lives. A little while later, a tsunami warning was issued and we spent the night with hundreds of locals and tourists on a hill inland for protection against the tsunami. That entire night, we could not sleep. It was filled with a constant wave of aftershocks and fear of whether we would survive the night. It was not until 5AM when we could return to our hotel. The walk back was heartbreaking- debris and rubbish littered the streets, houses had collapsed and villages were destroyed. Whilst my family and I were leaving for safety, locals had no choice but to remain.

Despite the terror, people still kept their faith in Allah. Everyone was reading Quran and praying throughout the night. It made me realise that it does not matter if you are rich or poor- Allah gives yet he can take from you in an instant. Never forget Allah and always express gratitude to your Creator.

This story is not about me but about those in Lombok suffering from the consequences. Alhamdulillah my family and I returned safely to the UK last night and for us, all we have is a memory of possibly the worst moment of our lives. We do not realise how lucky we are that we live in a country where natural disasters are rare and if something bad were to happen aid is readily available. This is not the case for the locals affected by the earthquake who are left to rebuild their lives and communities. They continue to live not knowing when the next disaster will strike.

Strong aftershocks, even days after the disaster, have hindered rescue missions and many are still left without food, water and basic supplies. Lombok needs your help.

During our trip, we met the most humble and kind-hearted people with whom we have exchanged contact details and will be keeping in contact with. InshAllah, all the money raised will go directly to the locals in surrounding villages affected.

Please donate as much as you can. Please keep the people of Lombok and all those suffering around the world in your duas.

جزاك اللهُ خيراً