Most people think of Michael Jackson as a global icon who belonged to America and the world stage. What they never knew was that the Jackson name would one day land on Pakistani soil — carried by Michael’s own nephew.
In February 2020, Jaafar Jackson arrived in Pakistan for a ten-day tour covering major cities of Pakistan, including the capital Islamabad, and other cities like Karachi and Lahore.
He had been invited and accompanied by British-Pakistani entrepreneur Zeeshaan Shah and the China-Pakistan Investment Corporation. From the moment he landed, he made it clear this wasn’t a casual trip.
“I had wanted to visit this part of the world for a long time,” Jaafar said. “It’s only my second day here and I have already enjoyed every second.”
Jaafar Jackson’s Tour Of Pakistan – Highlights
He visited NUST and COMSATS universities in Islamabad, where students gathered in large numbers to meet him. He stood at the Pakistan Monument for photos, visited Faisal Mosque, and in Karachi he made a quiet stop at a TCF school in Korangi — meeting children from low-income communities and learning about their education programs.
In Lahore, he visited universities such as LUMS, UET, and the National College of Arts and had a scheduled meeting at the Governor’s House.
HE ATE BIRYANI. HE LOVED IT.
“I found Pakistan completely different from the negative perception portrayed in western media,” he said. “Everyone has been warm, welcoming and sweet. I really look forward to coming back and doing a show.”
Jaafar Reflects On His Journey To Pakistan
There is also a deeper thread connecting the Jackson family to Pakistan. Reports say that Jaafar’s father, Jermaine Jackson, converted to Islam after visiting Bahrain in 1989.
The warmth Jaafar felt in Pakistan was not entirely unfamiliar territory for the family, but rather a rich spiritual enlightenment.
Michael Jackson’s music had always traveled far. His nephew just made sure the family showed up in person.