A prominent Pakistani expatriate Mohammad Abdul Rafee, who was an ardent follower of poet Alama Iqbal, passed away in Karachi on Friday.

Aalami Urdu Markaz Jeddah President Athar Abbasi expressed deep sorrow at his death. “He played a significant role in bringing the community together in Jeddah,” he said. “He was passionate about community work and always played a leading role in hosting prominent visitors from Pakistan at his place in Jeddah.”

Abdul Rafee was known for organizing many Islamic programs. “He was a kind man and endeared himself to the community with his service for the promotion of Urdu.

“He was a follower of Alama Iqbal, a patriotic Pakistani, a dedicated defender of Islam and was always optimistic about the rise of Muslims,” said Abbasi.