- Overseas Pakistanis actively contribute to charitable causes, reflecting a deep-rooted culture of generosity and compassion
Interview with Mr. Rohail Razzaq — an Automotive Engineer in Germany
PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please:
Rohail Razzaq: I was born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan. About a decade ago, I moved to Germany to pursue master’s degree and then I started to work in Germany. I am an Automotive Engineer by profession and work as a Project Manager for development of battery systems for electric vehicles. I spend my free time doing sports and going out.
PAGE: It is said that approximately $2bn are donated by Pakistanis per year. What is your standpoint in this regard?
Rohail Razzaq: Pakistanis are donating throughout the year via various ways like delivering food, delivering clothes, delivering directly cash or may be more. Therefore, I would think it could be more than $2 billion as it is impossible to count it. As we know many people also don’t share openly on what they donate. Overseas Pakistanis also send donations to Pakistan as they feel more comfortable to do so. I think we will never know the real count and we don’t need it anyway.
PAGE: Pakistanis are large-hearted people who empty their pockets at the slightest hint of another’s need. What is your perspective on it?
Rohail Razzaq: 100% true. Let me give you an example; a friend’s mother in law was hospitalised while she was visiting Germany. They started a fund raising as the insurance could not cover all cost. Within 24 hours they collected 10 thousand euros. It was amazing to see that 90% of funds were generated/contributed by the Pakistanis. We are truly remarkable when it comes to supporting others.
PAGE: Religious tradition mandates discretion in charity with the intention of protecting the identity and dignity of every beneficiary. What is your take on it?
Rohail Razzaq: I personally believe this is also the correct way. If we understand the reason behind why religious tradition mandates this because it would avoid possible low feeling for beneficiary. They could face challenges if people around them know that they are receiving some help, you never know who can take advantage of this so it’s better to keep it discrete. Another interesting reason is that if the person who is donating is not discrete then people around him will start to appreciate him and see them as heroes. I am not saying everyone, but some people might generate a feeling of arrogance with time if they are seen as heroes.
PAGE: How would you comment on charity organisations?
Rohail Razzaq: I believe they are doing good job and supporting a lot of people. There are a lot of unsung heroes in these organisation. I think where they can improve a bit is that they need to be more transparent on how funds are distributed. It will encourage people to trust them more and donate more.