Asfa Holding Chairman of the Board of Directors, Asaf Atasoy, included the following statements in his message;

On the occasion of Teachers’ Day, November 24th, which is the anniversary of Head Teacher Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s acceptance of the “Head Teacher of the National Schools”, I congratulate all our teachers with love and sincerity.

Teaching, one of the most honorable professions in the world, is a valuable and sacred profession that requires effort, devotion, patience and tolerance, and whose value cannot be measured by any financial reward.

Teachers are the heart and soul of a society. Raising virtuous and moral generations that embrace society is possible through the extraordinary efforts and success of our teachers. Undoubtedly, true success lies in “good morals.” Beyond raising successful individuals, and even more importantly, shaping generations armed with our values, reflecting one another, and keeping their consciences watchful over themselves will only be possible through the hands of our teachers. Indeed, Head Teacher Atatürk’s description of teaching as an “army of wisdom” expresses this same perspective.

Head Teacher Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk emphasized the importance of the teaching profession, which serves as a bridge between the past and the future, by saying, “Society’s greatest enemy is ignorance, and the enemy of ignorance is the teacher. The teacher is the teacher of the past and the founder of the future. The future belongs to the youth. And the youth are the work of the teachers.”

With these feelings and thoughts, I wholeheartedly salute all our teachers who work tirelessly, day and night, in every corner of our country, under all circumstances and conditions, sparing no sacrifice to instill in our children, the light of their eyes, knowledge and wisdom, truth and beauty, universal values, morality and spirituality, patriotism and love for the nation.

I remember with mercy and gratitude our teachers who were martyred in the line of duty, especially Head Teacher Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of our Republic, and our esteemed teachers who have passed away. I wish a blessed, healthy, happy, and long life to our teachers who have fulfilled their duties, raised generations that have been beneficial to their country and nation, and are now retiring.

Abdullah Yiğit-Istanbul

Last Updated: November 21, 2025

Asfa Holding Chairman of the Board of Directors, Asaf Atasoy, included the following statements in his message;

We commemorate Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of our Republic, with mercy, gratitude and respect on the 87th anniversary of his passing.

Atatürk, who devoted his life to his country and nation, led the establishment of the Republic of Turkey, which is independent and based on national sovereignty, with the strength and support he received from his nation, despite the difficult conditions and limited resources in our country.

Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who once again showed the world that the Turkish Nation cannot be held captive, is a leader who sheds light on the entire world not only with the victories he won and the works he bestowed upon us, but also with his profound thoughts and the ideas he put forward.

Our duty today is to work harder as a nation in unity and solidarity in order to look to the future with confidence and to achieve the goal of contemporary civilization set by Atatürk, with the strength we derive from our past.

Understanding Atatürk requires a thorough understanding of his ideas and their application. The founding of the Republic of Turkey rewrote an era. Atatürk, who led the Turkish nation, whose fire for independence never extinguished even when every corner of the country was under occupation, became the architect of the greatest war of independence in history, a war where faith transformed into victory, believing that our nation would not bow down to captivity.

We will never forget Ghazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, his comrades-in-arms, and all the heroes of our struggle for independence who selflessly became martyrs and veterans for our homeland, who showed the whole world that a nation can never be destroyed unless its determination and will to live together and independently is broken.

We commemorate Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of our Republic and the architect of our independence, whom we bid farewell to the eternal realm on November 10, 1938, with mercy, gratitude, and respect on the 87th anniversary of his passing. May his soul rest in peace.

Abdullah Yiğit-Istanbul

Last Updated: November 7, 2025

Asfa Holding Chairman of the Board of Directors, Asaf Atasoy, included the following statements in his message;

We are experiencing the pride and joy of celebrating together, in national unity and solidarity, the 102nd anniversary of the proclamation of our Republic by the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye.

The Republic is the result of a great victory achieved by a nation following a national struggle undertaken with faith and determination to achieve independence, despite all kinds of impossibilities, with love for the country, freedom and independence.

Our beloved nation, which has defended its independence and future with an unprecedented heroic epic in history, has maintained its unity and solidarity today, as it did in the past, and has known how to unite and be united with tighter ties.

In the 102 years since the founding of our Republic on October 29, 1923, the Republic of Turkey has taken its place among the rising powerful countries of the world and made significant progress with its growing economy, breakthroughs in the fields of health, education, science and culture, and strong democracy.

The Republic of Türkiye will continue to advance with confident steps on the bright path that lies before it and will walk towards the future with hope.

With these feelings and thoughts, I commemorate with mercy our cherished martyrs who made these lands our homeland, especially Ghazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of our Republic, and our veterans with gratitude and respect, and I congratulate the 102nd anniversary of the founding of our Republic.

Abdullah Yiğit-Istanbul

Last Updated: October 25, 2025

Asfa Holding Chairman of the Board of Directors, Philanthropist and Businessman Asaf Atasoy, published a message on the occasion of October 19th, Mukhtars’ Day.

Asfa Holding Chairman of the Board of Directors, Asaf Atasoy, included the following statements in his message;

Our muhtars, who hold an important place in our social life, who lead the way in ensuring that the needs and demands of our citizens are met by the relevant institutions, and who are the public officials closest to our people, are also indispensable and powerful representatives of our democracy.

Our muhtars, who closely monitor the on-site determination and resolution of all demands of our citizens, including their most basic needs, in the neighborhoods where they work, are fulfilling a duty that requires sacrifice and responsibility.

Our mukhtars, who constitute the most important link in the integration of the State and the Nation, who represent all institutions of our state in the neighborhoods where they work, who come to power through elections and form the basis of our democracy, are our valuable representatives who identify the demands, problems and expectations of our people on-site and take the necessary steps to find solutions.

With the approval of our President, the institution of muhtarship has become an important cornerstone of our democracy and the diligent work of our muhtars has been appreciated.

I congratulate all our muhtars, who work selflessly to deliver public services to our people in our province effectively and quickly, for their devoted work. I celebrate “October 19th Mukhtars’ Day” and offer my respect and love.

Abdullah Yiğit-Istanbul

Last Updated: October 16, 2025

Asfa Holding Chairman of the Board of Directors, Asaf Atasoy, included the following statements in his message;

We are experiencing the peace and happiness of observing the “Mawlid Kandili”, the anniversary of the birth of our Prophet (SAW), who brought us the age-old and universal message of Islam, who was sent as a symbol of grace, mercy and good morals to humanity, and as a mercy to the worlds.

I thank Almighty Allah for allowing us to reach another Mawlid al-Nabi, and I send my blessings and salutations upon the Master of the Worlds, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Mawlid al-Nabi is a blessed day that witnesses humanity’s most blessed birth. The Prophet’s path is the path of beauty, truth, justice, loyalty, and morality. His path is the path of mercy, compassion, tolerance, unity, and togetherness. This path transformed a society of resentment, hatred, and revenge into a society of love, affection, compassion, and mercy.

I hope that Mawlid al-Nabi will be an occasion for us to properly commemorate our Prophet and to correctly understand and comprehend the sacred messages he wanted to convey to humanity.

On this occasion, I hope that we will truly comprehend the beautiful moral values ​​of our beloved Prophet and the sacred message he conveyed to humanity and apply them in every aspect of our lives. I hope that Mawlid Kandili will bring peace, love, brotherhood, justice, compassion, and tranquility to our country, our beloved nation, the Islamic world, and all of humanity.

Abdullah Yiğit-Istanbul

Last Updated: September 3, 2025

Asfa Holding Chairman of the Board of Directors, Asaf Atasoy, included the following statements in his message;

Living in peace and security, with dignity, is one of humanity’s most fundamental rights. The killing of innocent people in the global climate of inescapable war and conflict is one of the fundamental contradictions of today’s world. This situation profoundly affects humanity and prevents it from facing the future with confidence. The murder of children, women, defenseless people, and innocent citizens in many parts of the world, or their displacement from their countries as victims of war, raises grave concerns for humanity.

Despite all these adversities, we, the descendants of our heroic ancestors who governed the world with justice and tolerance for centuries and established peace across a vast region, continue to be the hope of peace and tranquility for the world and the oppressed today, just as we were centuries ago. Our struggle to stop the bloodshed of the oppressed in many countries, to establish democracy, and to establish peace and stability in the region serves as a lesson to all countries worldwide.

I celebrate September 1st, World Peace Day, with the hope that it will bring an end to the bloodshed and tears in the world, and I hope that we can leave a better future where lasting peace prevails for our children, whom we see as our future.

Abdullah Yiğit-Istanbul

Last Updated: August 31, 2025

Asfa Holding Chairman of the Board of Directors, Asaf Atasoy, included the following statements in his message;

The earthquake that occurred on August 17, 1999, with its epicenter in Gölcük, Kocaeli, has left a deep mark on our memories as one of the most devastating disasters our nation has ever experienced. This massive disaster, which lasted 45 seconds, resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of our citizens, the injuries of hundreds of thousands, and the impact of millions more.

While these tragedies remain fresh in our memories, we have once again experienced immense devastation and profound grief with the earthquakes centered in Kahramanmaraş on February 6, 2023, affecting 11 of our provinces. This disaster, which saw the loss of thousands of our citizens, has once again demonstrated the vital importance of disaster preparedness.

The reality of earthquakes is an unchanging reality in our country. Therefore, ensuring building safety, raising disaster awareness, and making our cities resilient are our most important duties. Working hand in hand with all our institutions and organizations, we are resolutely continuing our efforts to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

On this occasion, I commemorate with mercy all our citizens who lost their lives in the Marmara Earthquake of 17 August 1999 and the earthquake of 6 February 2023, and offer my condolences to their families and loved ones.

Abdullah Yiğit-Istanbul

Last Updated: August 17, 2025

Asfa Holding Chairman of the Board of Directors, Asaf Atasoy, included the following statements in his message;

The press is not only the eyes, ears, and voice of the people, but also a cornerstone of democracy. Members of the press, who ensure society’s right to access accurate information, are the voice of the public conscience and a key player in shaping common sense.

With the abolition of censorship in the Turkish press on July 24, 1908, this historic step taken in the name of press freedom became a symbol not only of the profession of journalism but also of social enlightenment. This meaningful day reminds us once again of the importance of a free, independent, and impartial press.

Today, we live in an age where technology advances at a dizzying pace. While these advancements facilitate access to information, they also bring with them disinformation and misinformation. In such an environment, distinguishing truth from falsehood is the greatest test not only for individuals but also for journalists who practice their profession within ethical guidelines. Therefore, the importance of principled, responsible, and conscientious journalism is greater than ever.

With these feelings and thoughts, I wholeheartedly celebrate July 24th Journalists and Press Day, especially for all local and national press workers working in our province, and for all our journalists who work tirelessly day and night to ensure our nation’s right to access news. I wish them health, success, and ease in their professional lives.

Abdullah Yiğit-Istanbul

Last Updated: July 24, 2025

Asfa Holding Board Chairman Asaf Atasoy included the following statements in his message;

We are happy to celebrate this special day of our mothers, who form the foundation of our society and turn the family home into an island of peace by holding it together with their sacrifices.

Our mothers, who are the unifying element of family life and who have undertaken one of the most difficult tasks in the world, are the embodiment of goodness, compassion, devotion, mercy and unconditional love, possessing the most sublime emotions.

Our beloved Prophet’s words, “Paradise lies under the feet of mothers,” are very meaningful in terms of revealing the importance our religion gives to our mothers and the respect we should show them.

Our mothers are not only the beings who bring humans into the world, but also the protectors and teachers of humans from the moment they are born.

No amount of service can be enough to our mothers who put forth their whole selves by patiently enduring various sacrifices and difficulties.

With the belief that Mother’s Day will help us better understand the value of our mothers, I congratulate my mother and all mothers, especially those who have given their children as martyrs for their country, on Mother’s Day and wish them healthy, happy and peaceful days with their families.

Abdullah Yigit-Istanbul

Last Updated: May 10, 2025

Asfa Holding Board Chairman Asaf Atasoy included the following statements in his message;

Foundations are one of the most beautiful manifestations of the understanding of cooperation and solidarity that our nation has adopted throughout history. The foundation tradition, which aims to make goodness permanent, has contributed to the strengthening of social justice; it has given hope to those in need and direction to education and art.

Today, this ancient heritage is being reinterpreted in accordance with the requirements of the age and continues to serve every segment of society. The foundations that have emerged from the conscience of our nation for centuries are an institutionalized civilization institution on the path of charity and service. Today, through foundations, food is brought to those in need, light to the path of students, and relief to the hearts of the oppressed; the most powerful representation of social justice, mercy and solidarity in our lives is kept alive. We are aware that it is a national duty and civilizational duty to keep these ancient institutions that elevate our national honor alive, to recognize them and to introduce them to future generations.

The mosques, inns, baths, caravanserais, soup kitchens, hospitals, madrasahs and social complexes that our nation has built over the centuries and left to us are carrying the spirit of the past to the future with the efforts of our General Directorate of Foundations.

On the occasion of Foundations Week, I once again realize the importance of keeping this high understanding and tradition of charity alive; I wholeheartedly believe that this sublime heritage, which keeps the spirit of social solidarity alive, will be a source of inspiration for our future.

As a reflection of our civilization, foundations have been the strongest expression of social solidarity, brotherhood and compassion for centuries. I wholeheartedly congratulate all individuals and institutions who have contributed to foundation services; I hope that this meaningful week will further strengthen our culture of cooperation and sharing. I wholeheartedly celebrate the “Foundations Week” of our dear nation and wish that the spirit of foundations will always remain alive.

While congratulating all individuals and organizations that contribute to foundation services for their work, I hope that this meaningful week will further strengthen the feelings of cooperation and sharing in our society; I sincerely congratulate all our citizens on Foundations Week.

Abdullah Yigit-Istanbul

Last Update: 09 May 2025