Sixty Years Between East and West

Book excerpt: This book is an extraordinary account of a man’s vision, of a life that for over six decades successfully championed the betterment of Muslim youth and communities the world over. Totonji, a lone voice with little training, would become an inspiration for others and a powerful fundraiser. From a humble few hundred dollars of his own money, and an efficient team of like-minded students, he ultimately established one of the largest networks of local and international organisations in the world, travelling to more than 130 countries over the course of decades, to render help wherever it was needed. Along that journey he met some eminent personalities including Dato’ Anwar Ibrahim (current Prime Minister of Malaysia), Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali. His impact on others from East to West is immeasurable. As such this book is not about Totonji but his work – what faith, passion, drive and determination can achieve. In it he shares essential spiritual and ethical leadership principles, in the hope that others draw valuable lessons from all he has learned and live the experience with him. Seeking no praise and no gain, Allah and prayer was his first priority, service to others his second, and all else third.