Hasmat Ali, who passed away recently, was a true visionary and community builder. Ali was born in Sabeto Fiji, to a large family of 4 brothers and 4 sisters. Later he migrated to Vancouver, Canada in 1969. His tireless work ethics for the community as a pioneer from Fiji, lead him to lay foundation for the British Columbia Muslim Association (BCMA), which is currently the largest Sunni Muslim organization in B.C operating several Mosques, Islamic centres and schools around the province. 

By Irshad Khan

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of a prominent member of Fijian Muslim community in Vancouver, Canada, Hasmat Ali, on Thursday, May 20th 2021 at age of 83.

Ali was born in Sabeto Fiji, to a large family of 4 brothers and 4 sisters. Later he migrated to Vancouver, Canada in 1969. 

His tireless work ethics for the community as a pioneer from Fiji, lead him to lay foundation for the British Columbia Muslim Association (BCMA), which is currently the largest Sunni Muslim organization in B.C operating several Mosques, Islamic centres and schools around the province. 

He was personally involved in organizing many fundraisers and seeking donations house-to-house knocking on the doors to establish Mosques and Schools in the province. 

He also served as the Chairperson for the Surrey Delta branch with the BCMA. 

He worked closely with the local MP'S and municipalities to organize community events. 

Before migrating to Canada, he served with the Fiji Military Forces and Fiji Police. 

In his early part of life, he was a thrill seeker flying Cesna planes and wrestling.  

By work profession, he was an architect, drafter and a residential contractor in Vancouver. 

His attitude towards life was to live to the fullest and give back to the community. 

He has been described by many as a soft spoken, humble, gentle person with lots of patience. 

His granddaughter Khadija Ali, described him as a person larger-than- life. 

"He was a family man, devoted father, husband, brother, uncle, and specially a loving grandfather. We will always remember his hearty laughs, talking politics,  news and reminiscing about Mohammed Ali boxing highlights while enjoying Chai" added Khadija. 

"He would invite and feed all the stray cats to tame them so that we grandkids could play with them". 

He died yesterday morning at the Surrey Memorial Hospital in presence of his children and grandchildren. 

Late Hasmat Ali, was respectfully buried at the Victory Memorial Park in Surrey today( May 21st). 

He lives behind five children and eleven grandchildren, huge extended family, together with numerous friends and most importantly a great legacy. 

He will always be remembered for his kindness,  his sacrifice and relentless  contribution towards the local  community without expectation of rewards or recognition.