Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre (KMCC) Qatar is set to raise QR1mn to support the treatment of Indian baby Malkha Rouhi, under the aegis of Qatar Charity (QC), through multiple drives.

“Our efforts are triumphing and the fund is about to reach QR800,000,” KMCC state secretary Mohamed Sadik told Gulf Times, exuding confidence in achieving the goal soon.

Malkha has been diagnosed with Type 1 Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a genetic disorder that affects nerves and muscles, causing muscles to become increasingly weak.

Daughter of Risal Abdul Rasheed and Nihala Nizam, Malkha is undergoing treatment at Sidra Medicine. Doctors have suggested a gene replacement therapy and certain drugs which, according to Rasheed, are expensive and beyond the family’s reach.

KMCC’s two phased Biriyani Challenge initiative reached around 14,000 benefactors across Qatar while amassing around QR170,000. Many benefactors also contributed money to QC upon the request made by the organisation.

"The Biriyani Challenge evoked a good response with thousands of kindhearted persons making orders. Everything panned out as planned with enthusiastic volunteers tirelessly working to help the ailing girl,” Sadik said.

Around 400 volunteers, comprising professionals, businessmen and drivers, worked for the successful implementation of the drive, distributing biriyani orders across the country.

Sadik said the collected money is being handed over to QC under the supervision of a dedicated KMCC team.

The fundraising for Malkha is ongoing with organisations, individuals and institutions extending a helping hand. On its website, the QC has set a goal of QR11,654,028.75 with case number 206863 under licence: LC2023QTCH07-000032.

According to the latest figures on its website, QC has received a contribution of QR6,752,666.78 while reaching 58% of the total amount from 12,707 donors. Contributions can be made through the official website www.qch.qa/Malkha.