The World Jewish Congress and Myanmar's Jewish Community mourn the passing of its long-time leader Moses Samuels, who died on last Friday at the age of 65 in Yangon, the country's main city.
Of Iraqi Jewish descent, Moses Samuels continued the work of his father in caring for the synagogue and Jewish community for over 35 years. He received visitors who came to the city's synagogue and treated everyone with equal respect and dignity irrespective of their faith.
Samuels was also an advocate for a better understanding between different faiths and peoples, and he invited leaders from different communities to the synagogue to dialogue. "His memory will be a blessing to all of us, such a kind person and dedicated to the Jewish people. His kindness, generosity, and dedication touched many people hearts and will not be forgotten," the Burmese Jewish community said in a statement.
Moses Samuels leaves behind Nelly, his wife of 44 years, and their three children Dinah, Kaznah and Sammy. His son Sammy, a graduate of Yeshiva University New York, will continue to carry on his shoulders the burden of his heritage and the Jewish community in Myanmar.
During the 1940s, the Burmese Jewish community numbered around 4,000, but today no more than two dozen Jews live in the south-east Asian nation.
