Who is Who? Abdul Rahim Malik

THE MUSLIM WEEKLY 2004
Background:
Mr. AR Malik came to the UK in 1962 as an Electronics Student. Formed the Pakistan Muslim Association in 1963, helped establish the Luton Community Relations Council and became its first ethnic minority chairman in 1983. He also played a part in establishing Luton's first Mosque committee in 1965 culminating in the establishment of Luton Central Mosque.

Q: First, tell us about this forum, how long has it been in function and what are its stated aims?

A: It has been in existence for ten years. Set up to advise Luton Borough Council (LBC) on race equality within employment, housing, education, social services etc. to influence and develop their policies with respect to race equality.
Under the Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000 we are also involved with other public service organizations such as the Police, Prison Service and the Health Sector. We ask for all heads/chiefs of these respective organizations to give us presentations at least once a year.

Q: From your annual report, it appears that you are not getting full-co-operation from your local council.

A: Yes, problems do exist: If we ask the Council to be more transparent, they feel threatened, reform appearing too cumbersome. We have asked for an independent person to be involved in their recruitment panel, which they have flatly refused. As a result, Council recruitment for any individual department is left with its head of department without any transparency. Where race equality is concerned, it should not be a mere slogan, it should exist in reality.

Q: Previous Chairman Mr. David Campbell described (LRAF) as merely a 'talking shop'. What do you have to say to that?

A: It is not effective as it should be, nevertheless, we make every effort to influence council policies.

For example, we managed to re-instate two long-serving members to the Life-Long Learning Department (LLLD) after they had been removed without consultation. This was a time-consuming effort albeit a result was generated with the council promising to consult LRAF in future. Another case being the Icknield/Hijaab Issue: After months, amidst a local and national media frenzy, our involvement helped repeal this racially motivated ban.

Q: Do you have any complaints or appeals to any other prominent community organizations?

A: There is a lot to be done (Although some positive steps have been taken)

Q: Do you feel encouraged?

A:well, education and training are key to removing misunderstanding/s, particularly among high management. To illustrate my point, I attended a Prison Board meeting a few weeks ago where they did not have independent participation. This was brought to the attention of the director who promised to establish someone. This, in my opinion, highlights the urgent need for an Independent Equality Council. We have also asked the LBC PR department to relay details of our meetings to the media so that the public can be made aware of issues that concern us all.

Finally, I appeal to the community to get involved and participate in realizing racial harmony.

For Further details on LRAC;
ph. 01582 546041 (democratic services)

Dates for meetings: (at Luton Town Hall)
7 June
9 August
11 October