Issue 116 July

MUSLIM

AUSTRALASIAN

Multimedia News & Views

ISSN: 1039-2300

Print Post Publication No. 100021354

Print edition published Monthly on first Friday with Website updates

ABC Must Remain Independent

BOOMERANG PAGE 3

S

TIME

AMUST Issue # 116

www.amust.com.au

Phone: (02) 8006 2063 Email: info@amust.com.au

July 2015; Ramadan 1436

Multicultural Awards 2015

Greetings from Police

People of Indonesia

COMMUNITY PAGE 9

AUSTRALIA PAGE 10

TRAVEL PAGE 20

$1.00

Ramadan Iftars bring the community together Zia Ahmad A large number of community Iftar dinner parties held all over Sydney during the first ten days of Ramadan have brought together people of diverse background in an atmosphere of mutual understanding and harmony.

Iftar constitutes the evening meal at sunset to break the day long fast called Saum that Muslims observe during the fasting month of Ramadan in the Islamic calendar.

This year Ramadan started on Thursday 18 June and will end on Thursday 16 July with the celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr, thanksgiving prayers and feast on Friday 17 July and possibly Saturday 18 July.

The Premier’s Iftar Dinner was held on Monday 22 June at the Parliament House attended by almost 500 invited guests from all sections of Australian Society including leaders from the Muslim community as well as parliamentarians from both sides of the politics, government officials, academics, businessmen, media and representatives of interfaith groups.

Mr John Ajaka, the newly appointed Minister for Multiculturalism replacing Mr Victor Dominello welcomed the guests with the Islamic greeting of Assalamu Alaikum, proudly stating his Lebanese ancestry while expressing his excitement for being responsible for the multicultural portfolio and assured all those present of his strong commitment to community engagement while tackling extremism and radicalization.

Mr Mike Baird, the Premier of NSW greeted the guests with Ramadan Mubarak

From left: Mrs Kerryn Baird, Mr Mike Baird and Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohammad at the Premiers Iftar at Parliament House. and disclosed that both him and Mrs Baird were following Ramadan by fasting on the day and breaking bread together with all the guests present at the event.

Mr Baird reflected on how fasting, denial of food for developing self-restraint made one to appreciate food and satisfying hunger with availability of food was a privilege that

Proudly Printed in Australia by Spotpress Pty Ltd

we take for granted.

“There are many disadvantaged people in the world that do not have this privilege and we have the onus of responsibility to look after them,” he said.

“When you are fasting, you notice every piece of food within 100 meters and all this food advertisements are not very helpful ei-

ther”, Mr Baird admitted, based on his personal experience of fasting.

(Listen to Mr Baird full speech on AMUST website).

Continued on page 7 (See detail reports and photos in community section starting page 7.)

Dispose of this paper thoughtfully - PLEASE RECYCLE

$50

PALESTINE (GAZA), PALESTINE (WEST BANK), SYRIA, IRAQ, LEBANON & YEMEN.

2

Australasian Muslim Times

www.amust.com.au

$70

BANGLADESH, INDONESIA, AFGHANISTAN, MYANMAR & PAKISTAN.

$100 ETHIOPIA, SOMALIA, SOUTH SUDAN, SUDAN & MALI.

July 2015

UMMAH 15 - 16

EDUCATION 17 - 19

TRAVEL 20

SOCIAL 21

BOOMERANG

BUSINESS 22 - 23

ABC must remain an independent broadcaster The hysterical government and media or racial vested interests. What makes the reaction to Zaky Mallah’s appearance on headlines is to a great degree dictated by the Q&A programme on Monday 22 June media barons rather than independent amounts to a witch hunt against journalists. the ABC who seem to be cowing There are some exceptions and EDITORIAL ABC is one of them. in to pressure of this onslaught.

Assalamu The call by 2GB shock jock As a public broadcaster, ABC Alan Jones that “heads should has a great track record of keepAlaikum role at ABC” has been echoed by ing the public interest in the Greetings the Prime Minister Tony Abbott forefront providing free debate of Peace who had applauded ABC a week from all sections of the society. before for its programme “The killUnlike the shock jocks and sening Season” regarding changes in Lasationalized tabloid newspapers, it bor’s leadership before the last election. has avoided media hysteria based on pop“Whose side are you on?”, asked the ulism, nationalistic frenzy and towing the Prime Minister. agenda dictated by the government of the Well, not on any one’s side, Mr Abbott. day.

ABC is an independent broadcaster fiAlways and specially during the time of nanced by the tax payer not to take sides, national crises, ABC has maintained objeceven of the government of the day. It needs tivity, provided opportunity to share diverse to broadcast diverse views and provide a opinions and held forums for good debate forum for robust debate amongst all Aus- on issues relevant to our multicultural sotralians. ciety.

One of the great features of a free soHowever at times it has been reprimanded ciety is the freedom of expression and to by the government of the day and questioned say what you think, and we pride ourselves over its independence with threats to cut its for this privilege available in the Western budget and move staff. The same ongoing world in general and Australia in particular. threat “heads should role at the ABC”.

However due to the concentration of meDuring the first gulf war in 1991, ABC dia power in a few hands, what gets publi- brought a number of academics and activcized is controlled by commercial, political ists to debate the government’s support for

AMUST

AMUST Issue # 116 Friday 3 July 2015; 16 Ramadan 1436 News .................................1 - 2 • Ramadan Iftars bring the community together Boomerang ..................... 3 - 5 • Assertiveness with submission • Q&A session with media Community ..................... 6 - 9 • $70 campaign feeds 1 million • Fundraising dinner for Iraqis

. joining the coalition against attack on Iraq. There were concerted threats made against ABC and pressure put on Labor government of Bob Hawke to make ABC to toe the governments line on the issue and stifle debate.

Same thing happened at the time of the second Gulf War and invasion of Iraq in 2003. ABC again showed independence and objectivity by broadcasting diverse views and giving opportunity to debate the reasons for and against joining the coalition of the willing. Calls were made from the usual quarters to cut down ABC to size. Prime Minister at the time, John Howard was furious and threatened ABC with threats of downsizing which was apparently followed up together with changes to the ABC top brass.

It seems the witch hunt of ABC will continues unabated.

Z I Ahmad

Your citizenship at stake

The Australian Citizenship Amendment Bill 2015

Australia ....................... 10 - 11 • Islamic investments in shares Lifestyle ...................... 12 - 14 • Marriage struggle for women • The Modest Bride Ummah ........................ 15 - 16 • Dire situation in Afghanistan • Palestine at a crossroads Education ..................... 17 - 19 • Attributes of Allah - Part 11 Travel .................................. 20 • Traveller’s Fiqh Social .................................. 21 • Muslim Memes Business ..................... 22 - 23 • Boutique law firm in Parramatta

If I could fly Thaminah

Lydia Shelly On 24 June 2015 the Australian Government introduced the Australian Citizenship Amendment (Allegiance to Australia) Bill 2015, which seeks to introduce new provisions into the Australian Citizenship regime.

The proposed changes raise arguably, the most serious questions of law and civil liberties facing our country to date. Civil liberties and legal organisations around Australia have already raised significant concerns with respect to the proposed amendments.

The Bill tramples upon the doctrine of the separation of powers and proposes complete and absolute power in the discretion and opinion of the immigration Minister (who is part of the “Government of the day”) as to whether an Australian citizen should have their citizenship revoked. Even if that Australian citizen was born here.

The ability for citizenship to be automatically renounced is proposed to occur in three situations: 1. If an Australian citizen engages in “terrorist offences and certain other offences” (which is entirely too broad and covers “damaging commonwealth property); 2. If an Australian citizen engages in the service of the armed forces of an enemy country or terrorist organisation; and 3. If an Australian citizenship is convicted of terrorism related offences.

Tony Abbott mischievously told the Australian public in various press conferences that the three situations were based on the Independent National Security Monitor’s Report issued by the esteemed Brett Walker SC. This is incorrect. It is only the third situation that was discussed in the INSM Report and the situations referred to in item 1 and 2 above, has no basis in the INSM Report.

This led Walker to state that “his (Tony Abbott’s) position is indefensible and he should apologise.” He went on to say that no one from the Australian Government had

July 2015

contacted him to discuss his recommendations contained in the INSM Report since 2014.

The context in which the Bill has been introduced is also concerning. Abbott accused the honorable Shadow Attorney General Mark Dreyfus and the Australian Labor Party of “rolling out the red carpet” to terrorists when proposing that it would be more appropriate for Australian citizens to face the criminal justice system rather than have citizenship revoked.

Further, Abbott has also presided over the largest Cabinet leak in Australian history which demonstrated that his own Cabinet were being left in the dark regarding the drafting of the Bill.

At no stage has evidence been presented that revoking citizenship would make our country safer. In fact, the dangerous consequence of passing this Bill could mean that “ex-citizens” are detained indefinitely without charge or conviction.

There has been no discussion regarding whether implementing these laws could affect global security or stability. Or how the current rhetoric feeds into the propaganda produced by terrorist organisations. This Bill represents the desire of the Australian Government to circumvent the legal system and the courts, resembling an Orwellian State rather than the democratic country of Australia.

There are also fears that the laws will operate retrospectively, meaning that the Australian citizenship of every dual national that has been convicted of an offence (as

trivial as damaging Commonwealth property) is at stake.

The Bill also seeks to oust section 39 of the ASIO Act, which will result in the Minister being permitted to rely on ASIO intelligence in coming to the decision to revoke citizenship. Intelligence that can be unreliable and untested (remember Haneef?).

There is no ability for the affected person who has had their citizenship revoked to check or consider the information or it’s source that led to the revocation. There is no review of the decision. The Bill expressly states that natural justice does not apply and that the Minister does not need to reconsider his decision.

The Bill has been referred to the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security (PJCIS) and only two weeks has been given for legal experts and civil liberties organisations to prepare detailed submissions canvassing the possible human rights, civil liberties and legal issues at stake if this Bill is passed.

The PJCIS lacks diversity, with its membership consisting of nine men from the Coalition and Labor. There is no opportunity for any other Senator or MP to appear at the PJCIS and ask questions of those presenting evidence. This, combined with Abbott’s seemingly deliberate actions to keep his own Cabinet in the dark, should have you very concerned.

Lydia Shelley is a Sydney based lawyer and community advocate.

www.amust.com.au

If I could fly I would spread my wings so wide I would fly so high up one moment to have heavens touch One touch of pure desire i would then close my eyes and fall gently as my wings catches the breeze having the feeling of knowing heaven is all the bliss I need I would then flap my wings and circle the world see all of God’s beauty that has been foretold I would be free, no anger or rage Joy in my heart as I fly away from my cage I would spread my wings and feel the air on my face I would feel happy and grateful, full of grace For what are wings but running for those who cannot walk sound and song for those who cannot talk paintings and drawings for those who cannot see Love for those with no family God gave you wings to fly Don’t waste them on your journey through life For if I had your wings that I see I would fly so high, you will no longer see me.

Australasian Muslim Times

3

AMUST

BOOMERANG

Defiance Mahmoud Darwish Tighten my fetters, confiscate my papers and cigarettes, fill my mouth with dust.

Poetry is the blood in the heart, salt in bread, moisture in eyes.

It is written with fingernails, with eyes, with daggers.

I shall proclaim my detention cell, in the bathroom, in the stable, under the lash, manacled, in the violence of chains, that a million birds, on the branches of my heart, are singing fighting songs.

Note: I first met Professor Jabra Ibrahim Jabra (a Palestinian) when I visited in Iraq in the 1980’s. He was Head of the department of Literature at Baghdad University. He went to Iraq in 1948. Being a poet himself he gave me poems to include in my anthology of Arabic poetry ‘Feathers and the Horizon’.

He gave me this poem by Mahmoud Darwish so I included it in my anthology. Jabra was a wonderful person. He told me a great deal about the tragedy of Palestine and gave me many poems by Palestinian poets. He was such a civilized person I asked him for his definition of a truly civilized person. His answer was - ‘The one who makes the leap to the other’s mind.’ – He added ‘This is particularly important if the other is angry.’

Surely we should all across the world make the leap to the minds of Palestinians who have suffered so much over so many years and continue to suffer.

Anne Fairbairn, AM

Letters to the editor Muslims reject violence

It has become obvious that the haters and the bigoted lump ISIS/Daesh with mainstream Islam because it suits the Islamophobic discourse.

The BBC often interviews Choudhary the non-representative Muslim who is regarded as a joke by 99% of British Muslims and he is treated as expressing Islamic views.

This constant vilification through proxy is having very dangerous consequences.

The free speech brigade, that is free speech when it vilifies the vulnerable minorities, gets hysterical when some maverick expresses non-conforming views, but it really loves them, as they help in the process of vilification.

The constant MSM identification of ISIS/ Daesh with the name of Islam also helps in this work.

It is Islamic like the KKK is Protestant Christian or the Ustasha is Catholic and the Chetniks or Golden Dawn are Orthodox, and how the Stern gang was Jewish.

Gallup did 50,000 interviews in 30 countries showing that 93% of Muslims reject terrorist violence and the 7% who supported it, did so on political, not religious grounds.

Of that 7% of the extremists, only 13% thought that attacks on civilians were justified.

Find it on www.gallup.com “Who Speaks for Islam – What a Billion Muslims Really Think”.

Bilal Cleland Melbourne

HAVE YOUR SAY

HAVE YOUR SAY

Send us your thoughts about news or current events to be published in the next issue of AMUST

Email us at info@amust.com.au

NEWS 1-2

BOOMERANG 3-5

COMMUNITY 6-9

SUBSCRIBE TO AMUST

AMUST is on sale at your local newsagent in Sydney and most of other major cities of Australia. Price $1 Subscribe to the AMUST print edition in order to it get surely and promptly by Australia Post.

SUBSCRIPTION RATE Australia : Just $20 for 12 issues - 1 year Subscribe at www.amust.com.au/subscribers

Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in articles, and Letters to the Editor, Website Comments are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Australasian Muslim Times.

AUSTRALIA 10 - 11

LIFESTYLE 12 - 14

AMUST Team

Managing Editor: Zia Ahmad Graphic Designer: Rubinah Ahmad Chief Adviser: Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad Journalist: Mobinah Ahmad Columnist: Dr Abul Jalaluddin (Finance) Columnist: Bilal Cleland (Victoria) Columnist: Manarul Islam (ACT) Columnist: Lydia Shelly (Sydney) Columnist: Anne Fairbairn (Sydney) Promotion: Dr Wali Bokhari Web Developer: Shadow Approved Multimedia: iMoby Productions Printers: Spotpress Pty Ltd Distributers: Wrapaway Transport Pty Ltd Distributers: Abul Fateh Siddiqui, Shujaat Siddiqui, Usaid Khalil, Aamir Ahmad, Ibrahim Khalil, Usman Siddiqui, Zahid Alam, Shahab Siddiqui, Mahmoud Jaame, Mateen Abbas, Rashid Idris, Kamrul Zaman, Sakinah Ahmad, Anjum Rafiqi, Hasan Fazeel, Dr Quasim, Ismail Hossain, Hanif Bismi.

Contact AMUST PO Box 111, Bonnyrigg (Sydney), NSW 2177 Australia.

Email: info@amust.com.au Ph:(02) 8006 2063; Fax: 9823 3626

Send us your thoughts about news or current events to be published in the next issue of AMUST

Email us at info@amust.com.au

HELP INDONESIAN CHILDREN Education Project by JIMS Foundation

150 Islamic Schools

Over 15,000 More Than Students 1,000 Teachers

In Java and Sumatera, Indonesia

Luqman Hakim Landy, an Australian Muslim revert has been serving the people of Indonesia through his JIMS Foundation in the field of daawah and education for more than 15 years.

His educational and daawah projects are heavily dependent on the generosity of members of the Australian Muslim community. A number of community leaders including the previous two muftis of Australia, Shekh Tajuddin Al-Hilaly from Sydney and Sheikh Fahmi Imam from Melbourne as well as Mr Keysar Trad have toured the schools and rendered their support.

These schools catering for Indonesia’s poor are eligible for your zakaat and sadaqa specially in the month of Ramadan.

Website: www.yjims.org or www.y-jims.com | Mobile: 0413 662 880 (Australia) Email: yjimslhl@yahoo.com or jimsfoundation@yahoo.com

Details: Name: Luqman Hakim Landy PLEASE DONATE GENEROUSLY Donation Account ANZ BSB: 012 341, A/C: 540 136 101

4

Australasian Muslim Times

www.amust.com.au

July 2015

UMMAH 15 - 16

EDUCATION 17 - 19

TRAVEL 20

SOCIAL 21

BOOMERANG

BUSINESS 22 - 23

AMUST

Balancing assertiveness with submission Zalman Kastel On Monday morning 22 June, Sheikh Ahmed Abdo, my team and I discussed submission and assertiveness with Lebanese Muslim teenage boys in Western Sydney, who were fasting as part of Ramadan.

Just before this month of fasting began, I joined a priest on a panel with Soner Coruhlu, another sheikh, who explained the spiritual side of fasting. He put fasting in the context of the inner struggle between the ego and emotions, on the one hand, and submission to God and following higher callings on the other.

In Western culture, we seem to value asserting oneself rather than submission. In Australian culture, we celebrate egalitarianism and irreverence.

At the same time, these boys, like everyone else, are expected to submit to the rule of law and the obligations of citizenship.

We talked about the Magna Carta - how even governments must submit to the authority of the courts, and rule in a way that respects the rights of the people.

On the same Monday night, a Muslim man, a self-confessed “idiot at times”, asserted on national television, ABC programme Q&A, that the government “just justified to many Australian Muslims in the community tonight to leave and go to Syria and join ISIL”.

This has predictably caused outrage in the

Australian media, and inflamed tensions.

Living with people with diverse needs and standards, it is necessary to consider carefully how and when we either assert ourselves or yield to the will of others.

I have been thinking about the limits of a self-assertive approach. In the course of my work, I found myself confronted by a person who defied my guidance. He told a personal story, with a political reference, to a group of students in a context in which this was inappropriate. When I gently pointed out to him what I thought was his oversight, he asserted his own view and told me that the political aspect of his story was intentional.

The fact that I am a leader in the field of cross-cultural bridge-building, counted for nothing. Unfortunately, he saw no need to accept any guidance. In contrast to this, I shared an anecdote with the boys about how I submitted to the guidance of an Aboriginal elder, which, although hard at the time, I am very happy about after the fact.

In the current Torah readings, there is a strong message about submission. We read an extreme story promoting the virtue of “followership”: a man, named Korach, who refused to submit to the authority of Moses, was swallowed up by the earth as punishment.

We also read about a ritual involving the slaughter and burning of a red cow, as a means of purification, after contact with death. Death can be interpreted as symbolic - being completely disconnected from God. The ritual of the red cow is seen as a commandment without any rational explanation that we are forbidden to question.

An interesting question raised by one of

the boys during the discussion, was whether it should still be considered as submission if one wants to submit. The sheikh and I both thought the answer is yes.

Submission is not about the self being absent, nor is it about being weak and just caving in or shutting down. Instead, we are called to submit mindfully. This is what happens in loving relationships between parents and children, and husbands and wives. The Torah points to broader applications of this gracious way of being.

There will be times when assertiveness is the correct stance. There are other times that call for some give and grace. A season for submission is an opportunity to highlight this.

the months after 11 September 2001.

That’s why ICV decided to have a discussion with the “media”. After all, its through the media that we hear, see and feel the issues, and the pinch. What do the media know about Islam and the Muslim community?

Five senior journalists were invited to meet the community; Hamish Fitzsimmons from ABC Lateline, Gay Alcorn from the Guardian, Michael Bachelard from the Age, James Dowling from the Herald Sun and Karen Percy from the ABC. The event started off with panelists speaking to various topics given to them by the moderator; hijab, extremism, refugees, Islamaphobia and social cohesion.

What was very telling was the lack of understanding about Islam and a general lack of empathy with women and the concept of jihad. It did feel like the typical white person’s view of the world once again. Its not surprising given that Australia is predominantly a European society.

The discussion was quite tense and heated

at times. A young woman in the audience brought up the issue of The Age’s feature article about people who had gone to Syria to fight including Sydney-based Sheikh Mustapha al-Majzoub, who she felt was depicted in a negative light, when it was well known that he was a humanitarian worker and well respected by the community. The young woman was visibly angry and questioned Michael Bachelard about the article which he authored. Astonishingly, Bachelard offered to write an article correcting the wrongful insinuations about Sheikh Mazjoub.

More heat came from an HIYC elder who was very disturbed about the way that radicalisation was being linked to the Centre when none of Sheikh Omran’s students were engaged in fighting abroad. He challenged James Dowling and reiterated that HIYC had in fact condemned the atrocities of IS and also taught their students that they should not go overseas to join IS. The heat was turned up when another community member raised the issue of the

raids and the shooting of Numan Haider and how the Herald Sun reported the issue. It was agreed even by the panelists that the Herald Sun’s reporting of the Numan Haider killing was dreadful and really below the standard expected.

Of course, James Dowling defended the paper and said that it was important to report the way the police handled the raids to bring it to the attention of the public.

All in all, it was a great discussion and the beginning of a journey of dialogue and hopefully to understand and develop a friendship.

The important issue was not so much about holding the media to task for the way issues are reported but an opportunity to hear what the media had to say, to learn more about their perspective and to give them an insight to the complexities of the Muslim community.

Rabbi Zalman Kastel (right) in conversation with Sheikh Ahmed Abdo.

Rabbi Zalman Kastel is the National Director of Together for Humanity Foundation, blogs at www.torahforsociallyawarehasid. blogspot.com.au/. He is based in Sydney.

A Q&A session with the Media Kuranda Seyit

On Saturday 13 June the Islamic Council of Victoria (ICV) played host to a media panel discussion and Q&A. This special event was organized due to the concern that reporting of issues that have a direct impact on Muslims has increased dramatically in the past 12 months.

Most vividly still in our minds are the Sydney siege and the Melbourne shooting of Numan Haider, as well as the police raids of terror suspects and of course international events such as the Charlie Hebdo shootings and the on-going conflict in Syria.

This has really put Islam front and centre and with addition of some inflammatory comments from politicians and some redneck reclaim Australia rallies, the anti-Islamic climate has become as bad as it was in

Kuranda Seyfi Seyit is the Secretary of Islamic Council of Victoria and is based in Melbourne.

You could be a Foster Carer...

With more than 17,000 children and Young people in out-of-home care in NSW, we always need more foster carers. Foster carers play a vital role in giving these children safe and caring homes.

Do you have space in your home as well as love and patience to give to a child? If yes then you could be a Foster Carer! If you have the time to provide a few nights a month or a permanent home, all circumstances can help to improve children’s outcomes in life.

If you think you could provide care to a child, or children, in out of home care please contact us to find out more.

P: 02 8713 7700 E: fostercare@creatinglinks.org.au W: www.creatinglinks.org.au

July 2015

www.amust.com.au

Australasian Muslim Times

5

mind you nal Australia would like re tio na er Int al pe Ap an m continues Hu ur help. an who are in need of yo As the month of Ramadan ad m Ra is th rld wo e th edy around od deeds. of the many poor and ne from you and us our go pt ce Ac h la Al ay M y. ed e lives of the ne Together, lets light up th

Light up the lives of the needy this Ramadan Assalamou ‘Alaykum The month of Ramadan is a month of generousity, charity and filled with goodness. Help spread the goodness and ease the suffering of the poor and needy worldwide. Allah has commanded us to help them, and by doing so you will reap the rewards.

With your support and donations, Human Appeal International Australia’s donations in Ramadan each year reach more than quarter of a million poor and needy.

Contribute to our various Ramadan projects which include Zakat Al Maal and Fitr, Feed The Fasting, Eid Clothing, Gifts, Orphan Sponsorships, Water Wells and Sadaqa Jariya. Let us together help light up the lives of the needy this Ramadan.

Feed The Fasting

Zakat Al Fitr

Eid Gift & Clothing

Zakat Al Maal

$5 per meal

$10 per person

$20 per gift

2.5%

The compulsory payment of Zakat removes ones sins and provides food to the poor.

Bring happiness to a needy child on the special day of Eid with a gift & new clothes.

Fulfil the obligation of your Zakat Al Maal and provide relief to those in need.

Ramadan Food Parcel

Orphan Sponsorship

Emergency Relief

Build a Water Well

$300

$50 per month

Any Amount

From

Sponsor an Oprhan and be among those who will be in Paradise with the Prophet.

Provide urgent relief to those in countries stricken by emergency crisis.

Provides a festive gathering with a complete Iftar to let the needy enjoy their Ramadan.

for a family for 1 month

$500

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “...The most beloved of deeds to Allah the Almighty, the Magnificent, is that you bring happiness to a fellow Muslim, or relieve him of distress...”

May Allah bless you, your wealth and your family this Ramadan.

Donate Online: www.hai.org.au Donate by Phone: 1300 760 155

DIRECT DEBIT DONATIONS: Human Appeal International BSB: 062191 Acc No.: 00903948 Commonwealth Bank of Australia

6

Australasian Muslim Times

Provides a family with a comprehensive food parcel sufficient for 1 month.

Provide safe water solutions to the needy. This is a Sadaqa Jariya (ongoing charity).

With your generous donations, we work and change lives in the following 25 countries: Syria Palestine Lebanon Yemen

Jordan Iraq Kyrgyzstan Pakistan

Sydney Office: 119 Haldon St, Lakemba NSW 2195 P 02 9750 3161 F 02 9750 2524 E info@humanappeal.org.au

Kashmir Afghanistan Bangladesh Burma

India Sri Lanka Egypt Tunisia

Melbourne Office: 149 Sydney Rd, Coburg VIC 3058 P 03 8374 3000 F 03 9386 4688 E mel@humanappeal.org.au

www.amust.com.au

Somalia Sudan Eritrea Niger

Senegal Indonesia Bosnia Kosovo

Nepal

NSW - CFN17891 VIC - 12875 SA - CCP2001

Please donate generously this Ramadan.

Adelaide Office: 1/53 Henley Beach Rd, Mile End SA 5031 P 08 7200 2882 F 08 7131 9209 E sa@humanappeal.org.au

July 2015

UMMAH 15 - 16

EDUCATION 17 - 19

TRAVEL 20

SOCIAL 21

COMMUNITY

BUSINESS 22 - 23

AMUST

The community’s Ramadan Iftars Continued from page 1

There were a large number of community Iftars organized during the last half month of Ramadan and many more are scheduled to take place during the next half till the day of Eid. On Tuesday 23 June, the Police Multicultural Iftar Dinner was hosted by Superintendent Dave Eardley and Superintendent Michael McLean, Commanders of the Bankstown and Campsie Local Area Command

respectively as well as Assistant Commissioner Frank Mennelli, Commander of the South West Metro Region. The event held at Jasmin1 Restaurant in Bankstown and attended by a number of Muslim community leaders where the NSW Police Muslim Chaplain, Sheikh Ahmed Abdo recited and explained the Alfatiha, the opening chapter of the Quran.

On Wednesday 24 June Clr Linda Downey, Mayor of Bankstown and Clr Brian Robson held a special Iftar dinner at the Croatian Club in Punchbowl attended by a

ISRA Iftar dinner, fundraising for university campus.

large contingent of local community and invited guests from all over Sydney.

There were four major Iftars held on Saturday 27 June. Considered the most lavish and popular annual Iftar, it was organized by the University of Western Sydney at its Parramatta campus which was booked out within 24 hours after the opening of its online registration. More that 500 guests were greeted by the Vice Chancellor of UWS, Professor Barney Glover and heard the keynote speaker Ms Maha Krayem Abdo, a

UWS alumni, sharing her personal story of growing up in Australia.

Other Iftars on the same night included a fundraising dinner for raising fund for the construction of Australia’s 1st University campus for Islamic studies held at Grand Royale in Granville; Australian Relief Organisation (ARO) Iftar at Renaissance in Lidcome and Human Appeal International – Australia 18th Annual Fundraising Iftar at the Emporium Function Centre in Bankstown.

Mr Bashar Al-Jamal speaking at 18th Annual Fundraising Iftar for HAI.

Ms Maha Abdo with Prof Barney Glover, VC at UWS Iftar.

Sheikh Ahmed Abdo with guests at the police Iftar.

Food rush at the University of Western Sydney Iftar. (Photo by David Marshall)

Extending the Community Spirit of Ramadan to revert Muslims Mobinah Ahmad

Circles of Harmony is an initiative by husband and wife Kamran & Anisa Khan, who open their home daily to offer revert Muslims who do not have an extended family to share their iftars with.

In the month of Ramadan, there is a great social element involved when it comes to the breaking of the fast.

Days leading up to Ramadan, invitation after invitation come in from friends, extended family, organisations, and others.

Ramadan definitely provides a sense of community spirit, as you spend more time with other Muslims and share Iftar communally.

For reverts Muslims, however, this may be a challenging time. They may not have

July 2015

family to eat Suhoor or have iftar with, making the experience somewhat lonesome.

How often have we seen revert Muslims attend community iftars, do they even get invited?

And what about those that do not know many Muslims, or are close enough to be welcomed into their homes.

“I read a post on a revert Muslim’s Facebook page where she asked ‘Is anyone breaking fast on their own?’.This shook my heart to think that here there are people who are breaking fast alone.” said Anisa Khan, founder of Circles of Harmony.

She said she knew some of her revert Muslim friends felt lonely and quite isolated from the Ramadan spirit.

Anisa and her husband, Kamran decided to open up their home and prepare meals for their new guests who they welcome over

Facebook, to make them appreciate and enjoy the whole Ramadan Iftar experience.

“There are so many local causes and issues, small and big that need to be addressed in our community and this is just one of them.

There are many places that host it once to a couple of times a week but not daily.

The response has been astounding from people inquiring, attending and contributing meals too.”

The families that have attended have absolutely loved the homely atmosphere and spirit of Ramadan, making them feel like a part of a broader extended family.

So many stories of challenges, struggle, hardship, success and inspiration are shared by all that attend.

Katy Murfitt posted a video to the Circles of Harmony Facebook page, saying “Being

www.amust.com.au

a revert myself of almost 14 years, I can say that Ive spent many an iftar alone which can be quite an Isolating feeling. Inshallah Circles of Harmony iftar will provide sisters and brothers with pop to get together to share their story and journeys for however long they’ve been reverts for.”

As much as we are all encouraged to give to charity in Ramadan, it is necessary to look at our own community and help the people in our own backyard.

This kind of proactive initiative goes above and beyond in providing a face to face human touch amongst Muslims, and this is what the guests treasure the most.

Anisa says her three children have also benefited from interacting with guests and sharing their experiences.

It has made her children appreciate what they take for granted so much more.

Australasian Muslim Times

7

AMUST

COMMUNITY

Events Calendar

The Sciences of the Quran: Full Day Workshop Saturday 4 July, 2015 9:00AM - 4:30PM UTS, Broadway Campus, Building 02, Level 3, Room 17 http://www.jotform.co/ form/50392300202841

ISRA Iftar Sunday 5 July, 2015 5:00PM - 7:00PM Waterview Bicentennial Park, NSW 9649 9040

Amity College Iftar Sunday 12 July, 2015 5:00PM - 7:00PM Amity College, Prestons, NSW 8784 3111

Whats Up West? Youth Conference

NEWS 1-2

Australian Relief Organisation (ARO) held its third annual Ramadan Iftar dinner on 27 June at the Renaissance Function Centre in Lidcombe.

The function attracted over 400 guests, Muslims and non-Muslims alike from diverse backgrounds including Australian, Burmese, Bosnian, Egyptian, Lebanese, Jordanian, Pakistani, Indian, Turkmen, Turkish and Chinese. Local media representatives were also present that evening.

Various members of the Federal and State parliaments as well as other dignitaries were hosted at the dinner; including the Hon. Laurie Ferguson; Federal Labour Member for Werriwa, The Hon. Luke Foley; NSW Labour Leader of the Opposition, The Hon. Paul Lynch; NSW Labour Member for Liverpool, The Hon. Jihad Dib; NSW Labour Member for Lakemba, as well as the Hon. Greg Donnelly; Member of the Legislative Council, and Le Lam; Auburn City Councillor.

ARO’s Public Engagement Manager; Rifat Akpinar was the MC for the evening, where President Ahmet Aydogan welcomed guests and outlined ARO’s mission statement. On behalf of the Board of Directors, President Aydogan thanked all the hardworking directors, advisors, members, volunteers and the wider community for their

Chand Raat Eid Festival

Faith In God, a Challenge to the 21st Century?

Tuesday 21 July, 2015 7:15AM - 9:00PM Auburn Gallipoli Mosque Youth Building, NSW

https://www.facebook.com/ events/561388647334190/

Feed The Needy In Your Own Back Yard Friday 31 July, 2015 All Day Villawood Detention Centre, NSW https://www.facebook.com/ events/413891768796286/

View more events online or add your own at www.amust.com.au/ calendar

8

AUSTRALIA 10 - 11

LIFESTYLE 12 - 14

AMUST Media

Ph: 8218 9811

http://chandraat.net

COMMUNITY 6-9

ARO annual iftar attracts a large crowd

Thursday 16 July, 2015 12:00PM - 3:00PM UWS Parramatta South Campus, James Ruse Drive, NSW

VIC: Thursday 16 July, 2015 WA: Thursday 16 July, 2015 NSW: Friday 17 July, 2015 VIC: Broadmeadows Leisure Centre WA: Kingsway Indoor Stadium NSW: Rosehill Gardens, Rosehill

BOOMERANG 3-5

Guests at the ARO Iftar on Saturday 27 June at Lidcombe. moral, physical and financial support in emphasised that through organisations like their second year of operation. the ARO, the Australian public can appreARO CEO Cihan Tumen gave a presenta- ciate the essence of sharing and solidarity tion on the activities and briefed the audi- promoted by Islam. He stated that the valence on completed projects, ongoing activ- ue of a human life is equal regardless of the ities and future plans of the organisation. background of victims, hence commented Following the presentation, representatives that humanitarian aid activities should not from a number of nursing homes, rehab discriminate the beneficiaries for their relicentres, asylum seeker agencies, schools for gion, race or gender. Mr Ferguson acknowlchildren with special needs were awarded edged ARO’s activities in line with his defiwith thank you plaques for their co-opera- nition, and thanked the Board of Directors tion with the Australian Relief Organisation. especially for developing local projects that Laurie Ferguson underlined the impor- provides relief to Australians. tance of ARO’s activities and acknowledged Highlight of the evening was the presentathe organisation’s efforts. Mr Ferguson tion of a Recognition Award to a 93 year old mentioned that there is a negative image local veteran named Lionel Mance. Lionel of Islam portrayed in the mass media, and received this award for his loyalty towards his beloved wife of seven decades, supporting his wife in her old age, visiting her every day by catching a bus to the local nursing home and feeding her daily meals personally.

Both Luke Foley and Paul Lynch voiced their appreciation for having organisations like ARO in their local community.

Jihad Dib placed emphasis on the spirit of Ramadan, beauty of Iftars and importance of charity in Islam. Dib stated that ARO is very successful in bringing people together in Ramadan and raising much needed charity for the poor and needy.

Before the conclusion, Burmese Muslim Association presented a cheque to ARO President, providing their community’s support to Nepal Earthquake victims.

Ramadan Diary Programme for kids AMUST Media Ramadan Diary is a Kids Ramadan Engagement program that is currently being run at Bankstown Masjid by IFAM (Islamic Forum for Australian Muslims) team.

The aim of this Program is to help kids plan their Ramadan with productive activities and to provide them a Platform where they can participate in different Islamic activities of their interest. The Program is also aimed to make the kids aware of the importance and benefits of Ramadan.

Ramadan Diary started at Bankstown Majid with a “Welcome to Ramadan for Kids”.

Kids were invited to perform in activities such as Quran Recitation, Nasheed, Presentations, Speeches and Adhan Competitions.

Kids were given a Ramadan Diary in which they record their activities such as Fasting, Prayer, Reciting Quran, Helping their Parents etc during Ramadan.

Kids are not only given opportunity to participate in the Program but are also encouraged to conduct the Program themselves.

Ramadan Diary Program will continue throughout Ramadan every Saturday at Bankstown Masjid.

Australasian Muslim Times

Ramadan diary participants at the Bankstown Mosque.

www.amust.com.au

July 2015

UMMAH 15 - 16

EDUCATION 17 - 19

TRAVEL 20

SOCIAL 21

COMMUNITY

BUSINESS 22 - 23

Muslim role models recognised at the Multicultural Media Awards Mobinah Ahmad

At the Premier’s Multicultural Media Awards, held at Doltone House, Sydney, three young Muslims did our community proud, Tahmina Ansari, Mostafa Rachwani and Yasmine Lewis were recognised for their talented contribution to the Australian Multicultural community.

NSW Premier Mike Baird and Minister for Multiculturalism John Ajaka announced the winners at the gala event. “At a time when the mainstream media is contracting, the multicultural media is thriving and we welcome the contributions made by media professionals who play such an important role in keeping our ethnic communities informed,” Mr Ajaka said.

Tahmina Ansari from the ABC won the Young Journalist of the Year award. Winner Tahmina has been reporting and breaking stories for the ABC, including camel culling and the Taliban murder of a dual national.

She said “It was incredibly humbling and such a lovely surprise to win this award at the 2015 Multicultural Media Awards for NSW young Journalist of the Year - I have

From left: Yasmine Lewis, Tahmina Ansari and Mostafa Rachwani. never really won anything in my life before besides a free muffin and I can safely say this one means a lot more! I was reflecting back to when I first started in the media industry - I was told two things. One, you’ll never make it because you wear a hijab and two, no one will ever put you in front of a camera because of your hijab. Well I certainly can’t

say I’ve “made it” anywhere however I can say this - someone did allow me to do my job whether it be TV, radio, online etc and that was and still is the ABC. Thanks to all my mentors, family, parents, colleagues and friends who have continued to support and help me through a journey in an industry which is all about teamwork. Nothing I ever

AMUST

do is credit to myself but rather a credit to all of us. So thank you ” Best Editorial of the Year award was won

by Mostafa Rachwani for his commentary “Raiding the Muslim Community: What happened, the law, the politics” from Youthink Magazine, The Lebanese Moslem Association. The winning editorial focused on the aftermath of the police raids in the Muslim community in September 2014 and Muslim community’s engagement with the Australian Government. He said “Thanks for all the support guys! You can call me “award winning writer” now. Alhamdulilah.”

A stellar spoken word poetry performance

by Yasmine Lewis kicked off the event, and engaged the audience. The title of the poem was “If they can pronounce Shakespeare”[they can pronounce your name].

The poem was received extremely well by the hundreds of dignitaries and guests that attended.

“For I, I am not your lunch order, that you can point at and stumble through, Nor am I, your fashion item that you have appropriated too, this label, that was give to me and you is wrapped in history, so get to know yours too.”

$70 campaign feeds Fundraising dinner 1 million people for Iraqi refugees Oguzhakan Taskun World Orphan Fund, a humanitarian aid Non-Government Organisation has reached their goal to feed 1 million people in Cambodia during Ramadan. Their ‘Feed8People for $70’ campaign was highly successful and received a great response and support from the community.

With the support and assistance through donations worldwide, World Orphan Fund were able to achieve our goal of feeding over 1 million meals within Cambodia, with the best quality food.

Over the past 4 years, World Orphan Fund has supported locals through Ramadan food packs, emergency relief, and orphan sponsorships.

The Feed8people campaign was initiated on the basis of spiritual and physical attributes of Ramadan. The Ramadan food packs include local essentials such as rice, oil, milk, soap, dishwashing liquid, and fresh produce.

The purpose of this initiative is to provide vulnerable Muslim families within Cambodia, with basic food and hygiene necessities to assist them during this holy month and fulfill its criteria.

The primary challenge faced were to actually find the genuine poor people. There are a lot of people in need, but they still have a small means day to day to survive. Then there are those who can not work or provide for them self. This is where the expertise of

World Orphan Fund comes in. They travel every village and have a detailed report and understanding of the areas they work in.

The World Orphan Fund focuses on implementing a 100% donation policy, by adopting a zero percent administration fee with the consistent effort and commitment of our dedicated volunteers.

World Orphan Fund’s vision is to provide the disadvantaged locals with the opportunity to gain access to basic human needs, such as food, education and long term sustainability infrastructure.

World Orphan fund will continue to strive for sustainable development, equipping the locals to combat their situation through empowerment, strategic planning, and positive change. They do more than just humanitarian work, they own farm tractors, and harvesting machines for corn and rice. They also offer a high IQ program for orphans (with IQs over 138).

To donate to the World Orphan Fund, visit www.worldorphanfund.org.au/donate Oguzhakan Taskun is the founder and volunteer for World Orphan Fund which has been running for the past four years. He is currently in Cambodia, providing meals to the needy, with a large team of male and especially female volunteers. World Orphan Fund promote Islamic women empowerment, and ensured women were involved in learning new humanitarian skills internationally from this initiative.

AMUST Media A fund raising dinner with the theme “The Silent Crisis” was held on Saturday 13 June at the Stars Palace Reception in Fairfield organised by the Australian Iraqi Muslim Society in partnership with Islamic Relief Australia.

The event raised almost half a million dollars to support the countless number of internal refugees in Iraq currently suffering at the hands of multiple violent groups and militias.

Businessmen, professions, individuals as well as representatives from a broad range of organisations and institution attended the dinner in force to show their support. Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohammed, the Grand Mufti

CONTRIBUTE

of Australia addressed the audience urging them to support this cause.

A number of Sheikhs, Imams, leaders of Muslim organisations and institutions including Human Appeal International, MCCA, National Imams Council, IFEW, MEFF and AMUST were represented at the event to show support from Sydney as well as from other cities including Melbourne and Adelaide.

A video graphically showing the plight and suffering on internally displaced Iraqi refugees particularly in the Ambar province as a result of violent conflict in the country brought tears to the eyes of those present.

Using the fundraising and auctioning skilful articulation Br Ahmed Awf and Dr Mohammad Al Naqeeb were able to raise more than $450,000 at the event.

TO AMUST

WRITE • SHARE • DISCUSS

Like Facebook Like

is building network of correspondents DrAMUST Ibrahim Abu aMohammad speaking at the Iraqi Fundraising Dinner.

CONTRIBUTE

in Australia and overseas in order to share the good news, positive developments and achievements in their community. Your contribution will be published on the AMUST website and will be included into the following print edition of AMUST, which is circulated throughout Australia.

TO AMUST

To sign up, visit www.amust.com.au/contributers

us on

us on

Facebook WRITE • SHARE • DISCUSS July 2015

fb.com/amust.au

AMUST is building a network of correspondentsAustralasian Muslim Times www.amust.com.au in Australia and overseas in order to share the good news, positive developments and achievements in their community. Your contribution will

9

AMUST

AUSTRALIA

NEWS 1-2

BOOMERANG 3-5

COMMUNITY 6-9

AUSTRALIA 10 - 11

LIFESTYLE 12 - 14

WA Police Commissioner meets with WA Imams and Muslim Community Leaders AMUST Media The Western Australia Police held a Commissioner’s Morning Tea event with Imams and Muslim leaders in Perth on 3 June 2015, at The RISE complex in Maylands.

The large event was attended by the Commissioner of Police, Dr Karl O’Callaghan, Assistant Commissioner of Community Engagement Division Duane Bell, along with Senior Officers, Commissioned Officers and Non Commissioned Officers from the Local District Teams. Over 180 leaders of Muslim communities in WA attended the event.

In his speech, Commissioner of Police Dr O’Callaghan said he was extremely pleased at the quality of the relationship between WA Muslim leaders and Police and this needed to continue. Dr O’Callaghan stated that the

Ustaz Wahaj Tarin, Acting Principal of the Australian Islamic College WA.

growing cultural and religious diversity in Western Australia meant such events were essential and they were important tools in helping establish and strengthen links between Police and diverse communities. He also wished the Muslim communities Happy Ramadan for the upcoming month of Fasting beginning in mid-June this year.

Dr O’Callaghan said during his speech that he was hopeful more young Muslim West Australians would join the ranks of WA Police, which he believed would be a very positive and practical way of increasing the organisation’s level of cultural understanding and capability.

He also said that It is important that our young people listen to their parents, teachers, Imams and Local Police Officers, and not be influenced by negative forces reaching out to them through social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. To achieve this, young people need to know they can approach these role models, and speak openly about issues concerning them.

It’s for these reasons that we host these gatherings, so you know who to contact or turn to when in need of some advice or guidance.

Most importantly we need to encourage everyone in our community to stay close to those who love them, and encourage each one to think carefully about their actions, where bad decisions made may impact and ruin their hopes and dreams.

The morning tea event has been a regular calendar event for the past six years in Perth.

Once again this year, attendees were encouraged to chat not only with senior Police leaders but also talk with identified police officers of other ranks representing specific Perth police districts.

Assistant Commissioner Duane Bell also spoke at the event, urging mutual trust, re-

Dr Karl O’Callaghan, Commissioner of WA Police with colleagues and community members at the event. spect and openness between Police and the Muslim communities in understanding and learning about each other.

Ustaz Wahaj Tarin, The President of Islamic Motivation and Acting Principal of the Australian Islamic College WA addressed the audience on behalf of the Muslim communities of WA. He stated that the vision of Islam for humanity was one of safety and security, peace and prosperity. He said that it was with this vision that Muslims had come to this land, from as far back as the days of the Afghan Cameleers till this very day.

He also commended the recent WA police community engagement initiatives designed at building trust understanding and mutual

respect. He stated that community engagement events of this sort would increase the confidence the community had in Police.

The event started with recitation of the Holy Quran and read verses were translated into English by two young students from Australian Islamic College, Kewdale Primary. Feedback received after the event showed both community members and police officers had found the event valuable.

The WA Police also conducts a regular quarterly meeting with senior Muslim leaders in Perth to discuss specific to police and Muslim community issues, with this meeting chaired by one of WA Police’s two Deputy Commissioners.

NSW Police congratulate Muslim community on Ramadan AMUST Media On Monday 29 June, the New South Wales Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione issued a greeting message to the Muslim community in the state on the occasion of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan: “On the occasion of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, I extend to Muslims in our wonderful state, the New South Wales Police Force’s greetings and best wishes.

Ramadan is a time for reflection, spiritual devotion and renewal. Muslim families around the world come together this month to celebrate their faith and their communities. By fasting, and through acts of charity, Muslims also remember those less fortunate than themselves.

The New South Wales Police Force acknowledges the very important contribution the Muslim community continues to make, building a more diverse, more productive and more harmonious NSW. The month offers a message of giving, tolerance and hope, something that Australians from all walks of life can share.”

Mr Andrew Scipione.

Visit our website www.amust.com.au for the latest news and views 10

Australasian Muslim Times

www.amust.com.au

July 2015

UMMAH 15 - 16

EDUCATION 17 - 19

TRAVEL 20

SOCIAL 21

AUSTRALIA

BUSINESS 22 - 23

Screening Company Equities for Islamic Investments in Share Markets FINANCE Dr Abul Jalaluddin

Background Wealth of Australian Muslim community is on the rise and a large part of it would be invested in domestic and international share markets.

One of the main issues Muslim investors encounter is how shares are screened for eligibility in Islamic investments.

There is a plethora of opportunities in Shariah compliant equities in the Australian stock exchange. The industries wherein Islamic investments could be undertaken include mining, tele-communication, transportation, property funds, building & construction, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing, utilities, renewable energy and electricity. This opportunity would be of a mammoth proportion if international equity markets are roped in for investments.

Australian Islamic financial services companies provide facilities for equity investments, domestically and internationally.

Australian Shariah compliant superannuation funds also invest in share markets to grow retirement nest eggs for their members.

Shariah Screening Generally speaking, there are two types of staggered screening done in the world wide Islamic financial services industry: sector based screening and accounting based screening. The former is performed to determine eligibility for all investments and the latter is carried out for companies which are

not fully Shariah compliant characterised by not having a Shariah Advisory Board, not all transactions are Shariah compliant and not incorporated or managed fully in accordance with Shariah principles.

In sector based screening, all non-Shariah compliant sectors are excluded which would consist of alcohol, gaming/casinos, adult entertainment, pork products, tobacco products, weaponry, financial services except Islamic financial services and insurance except Islamic insurance (Takaful). These sectors are not considered Islamic and Muslims would not be comfortable to invest in these businesses to grow their wealth. Major Shariah screening service providers such as Dar Al Istithmar and Ratings Intelligence Partners would review the latest financial reports of relevant companies to ensure that they are not involved in any non-Shariah compliant business dealings.

Accounting based screening examines various financial ratios to measure an acceptable level of Shariah compliance. These ratios generally focus on leverage or debt financing, cash holdings and proportion of revenue derived from non-Shariah compliant enterprises. As an example, we provide the methodology of Dow Jones Shariah Indices. To be eligible for Islamic investments, a company requires to satisfy the following criteria for financial ratios: Debt/Equity (market value of equity over 3 years) must be less than 33%; Cash plus interest bearing investments/Equity (market value of equity over 3 years) must be less than 33%; Account Receivables/Equity (market value of equity over 3 years) must be less than 49% and Non-permissible Income other than Interest Income/Revenue must be less than 5%. This financial ratio analysis is to ensure

Program to counter violent extremism AMUST Media

The NSW Government will turn to community groups as it explores ways to identify young Australians at risk of becoming disengaged from society.

NSW Premier Mike Baird and Minister for Multiculturalism John Ajaka announced on Monday 22 June that $4 million in new funding, over two years, would go toward creating the NSW Countering Violent Extremism Early Intervention Program.

Mr Baird assured that extensive community consultation would be undertaken as the NSW Government develops a plan to address the recruitment tactics of extremists.

“The nature of the problem we face today means we must have the community on board if we are to successfully combat this scourge on our society,” Mr Baird said.

“Consultation is the key to ensuring community groups are at the heart of any plan

aimed at ensuring young Australians make positive contributions to society, while identifying those who become disengaged as quickly as possible.”

Mr Ajaka said the program would aim to address the evolving threat posed by foreign fighters and lone actors and would support local communities to engage at-risk young people to divert them from violent extremism.

“We need a long term holistic solution that builds on the strengths of our diversity and fosters a sense of hope and opportunity in our youth,” Mr Ajaka said.

Over the coming months, Minister Ajaka will work with community and religious leaders, organisations and experts to develop and deliver mentoring and support programs in priority communities across the state.

The Department of Education will also implement a range of CVE initiatives within existing resources to address anti-social behaviour in NSW schools.

that non-Shariah compliant business activities are within a tolerable level of necessity for companies operating under conventional market conditions.

In the event of investors receiving dividends or investment incomes from companies with non-Shariah compliant business dealings, a Dividend Purification Formula (DPF) is suggested to calculate the amount of investment income which could be donated to cleanse incomes received from such companies. The DPF is calculated as Dividend x (Non-permissible Dividends/Total Dividends).

Shariah screening service providers generally operate under instructions of their Shariah Advisory Boards. These agencies have access to highly qualified Shariah ad-

AMUST

visers and finance professionals to produce accurate screening advice for Islamic investment community.

Concluding Remarks Shariah screening methodologies may not be uniform across the industry. All Shariah compliant share market investment providers apply certain methods to ensure subject shares are screened in terms of business sectors and an acceptable level of financial ratios. This affords an assurance that Muslim investors are well taken care of in their Islamic investments.

Dr Abul Jalaluddin is an Islamic Finance expert, Director of MCCA, taxation advisor and a regular columnist of AMUST. He is based in Sydney.

Zakat begins at home.

We’re here to help.

The National Zakat Foundation has been actively helping the Australian Muslim community since 2013. In that time we have created a lifeline for the people most in need, such as widows, orphans, refugees, victims of domestic violence and the homeless.

• 100% of the Zakat you pay is distributed to local people who need it most.

• With your help $764,222.28 was distributed to the most marginalised members of our community within two years.

For your FREE guide visit nzf.org.au

The Premier with Mr John Ajaka at the press conference on 22 June.

July 2015

www.amust.com.au

Australasian Muslim Times

11

LIFESTYLE

NEWS 1-2

BOOMERANG 3-5

COMMUNITY 6-9

The marriage struggles of Muslim women AMUST

Zeynab Gamieldien

The process of trying to find a partner can be horribly, utterly brutal.

Fumble, stumble, trip, run into a dead end-this is the thorny path of so many singles. But are all marriage struggles created equal?

Broken hearts are certainly not the sole domain of women, but there are any number of reasons why the marriage process can be particularly difficult for women.

This is a condition not at at all specific to Muslims, but as always, the intersection of faith and universality makes for some sad, weird and funny results.

Let’s take a closer look at why it is that women are so often at the losing end of the marriage process: Time pressures Tick tock, tick tock. Or so women are constantly being reminded.

There is such a small window of time during which women are actually viewed as eligible marriage material, spanning in some circles from the late teens until somewhere around the mid-twenties.

Women are forced to think about marriage at a far younger age than men are, and if they run carefree and amok through their 20s, they may pay the consequences later and remain single long after they choose to.

For example, as depressing as it is, it’s not uncommon for women 25 and up to assume that their chances of getting married are slim to nil, while a man of a similar age bracket may only just be starting to think about marriage.

These skewed conditions can create a power imbalance in which women may feel compelled to ‘settle’, while men are given license to pick and choose at their liberty.

Women are often told that their chances are running out, and even if they aren’t explicitly told, they can see for themselves that their opportunities may be few and far between.

If we have a system in which a woman’s eligibility goes down as she gets older and better-educated and a man’s eligibility only goes up with these factors, there will undoubtedly be some nasty consequences.

Part of the reason women are forced to think about marriage fairly early on is couched in biological terms. Women are constantly being warned about how their fertility is a precious commodity by everyone from gynaecologists on TV to their mothers and aunties.

Women who want the opportunity to have children know that it takes time to meet someone and get married to them, and

12

some may even feel pressured into marrying someone at least partly to have that opportunity.

Lack of suitable candidates Let’s compare the pool of potential partners of a 30 year old man vs a 30 year old woman.

It’s not socially acceptable for a woman to marry a younger man, and so she will generally limit herself or be limited to men her own age and above.

If she has a good job and is well-educated, she may expect, not unreasonably so, that her husband be of a similar level.

This narrows the pool even further. In contrast, a 30 year old man has a far wider pool of acceptable candidates to choose from, as he can marry a woman any number of years younger than him and not attract any censure.

He can also freely marry someone of a lower level of education and earning capacity, and can explicitly filter women on these bases.

There are any number of reasons why men would choose to marry a younger and less established woman as opposed to a woman his own age.

Suffice to say, we all know it happens, and it obviously creates an imbalance between the amount of men available to a particular pool of women.

Frequently, there seems to be more women visible in Muslim community circles, which further adds to a perceived number imbalance.

Lack of agency For women who do want to get married, there are few direct avenues available.

Pursuing someone and expressing interest in them is seen as an exclusively male domain, and women who do try to initiate something may run the risk of being labelled as ‘desperate’ or ‘coming on too strong’.

This is particularly the case where the man and woman are the same age.

For the reasons mentioned above, the man in the equation will often feel less compulsion to get married, which means that the woman may invest far more emotion and energy into trying to make it work than he does.

Even if he likes her, he may not feel compelled to do anything about it, simply because he isn’t under the same time pressures she is and knows he can meet someone down the track with relative ease.

Women who are interested in someone are forced to pull a Khadija and involve a third party.

This can rob them of autonomy over the process and can be embarrassing and awkward, particularly when the third party isn’t someone they know all that well.

But what are the other options, besides sitting back and waiting for the guy to notice

LIFESTYLE 12 - 14

Marriage Bureau

Seeker & Sought For An initiative by the Islamic Foundation for Education and Welfare (IFEW)

Seekers

them?

Parental restrictions While men are certainly not immune from parental pressures and restrictions, these often fall more heavily on the daughters of the family than the sons.

Part of this is due to the perception of men as head of the household, which means that if a man marries a woman or a different culture or even a different religion, he is still seen to rule the roost.

But if a woman wants to marry a man of a different culture or sect, her parents will often block her pathway entirely, leaving her with the choice of either giving up on the person or breaking her parents’ hearts.

Greater impetus, more to lose If and when women feel restricted in the home, they may seek out marriage as a means of achieving greater autonomy. But in order for her to get married, she must observe the rules of propriety and never, ever, ever sin or make a slip-up.

If she does, the court of public opinion can be utterly unforgiving.

Whether it’s choice in clothing or physical intimacy before marriage, things just seem to stick to women more so than men and be policed with more intensity.

Many women have spoken of their frustration about men who indulge in all sorts of fun activities and then waltz back in and marry a sweet little cutie pie without too much difficulty.

Women who have been in previous relationships or who have been divorced find that their options may find they are limited to marrying someone from overseas, which may or may not be an option they’re comfortable with.

Some end up being forced to look outside the community and try to ‘convert’ a non-Muslim man, seeing their chance of meeting a Muslim who accepts them as almost non-existent.

None of what I’ve written is particularly controversial or new, but it’s important to recognise the very real and harsh impact these issues have on people, the hidden stories of frustration and despair, the resignation to a life without a partner or a life with a partner they ‘settled’ for.

Those who end up getting married attribute it to naseeb, as do those who stay single, but no one should have to accept injustice and a life of enforced solitude as their naseeb.

To love and be loved is the greatest mercy we have in this life, and it is our responsibility to ensure that each and every person has the opportunity to share in this love.

Zeynab is an Australian lawyer, social inquirer, traveller and chronic human observer. She created Love Haqtually as a space for Muslims (and anyone interested) to discuss relationships, love, the weirdness of being a Muslim in the 21st century.

The article has been edited. To see the full article, please visit www.amust.com.au Zeynab is an Australian lawyer, social inquirer, traveller and chronic human observer.

She created Love Haqtually as a space for Muslims (and anyone interested) to discuss relationships, love, the weirdness of being a Muslim in the 21st century.

Australasian Muslim Times

AUSTRALIA 10 - 11

www.amust.com.au

F20155: Female, 29. Sri Lankan Indian (Bahrain), Pharmacist I enjoy spending time with family, reading books, cooking Arab dishes. I read the Quran and pray 5 times a day.

I’m looking for a Muslim man, aged between 30-35 yeas old, who is cultured, open-minded and who has high respect in family values.

M20156: Male 58 divorced Pakistani Australian. I have been in Australia for 30 years and worked in IT and now I am retired. I am seeking for a Sunni muslimah widow or divorced from any culture.

M20154: Male, 42. Pakistani Australian, Accountant I come from a respectable family, I have been brought up with traditional Pakistani culture. I am a Sunni Muslim. I like reading Islamic Books, attending Islamic seminars and meeting friends of a similar background. I also like watching movies, listening to music and watching various sports. I am looking for a Sunni Muslim Pakistani woman who is educated and comes from a respectable family background.

M20153: Male, 32, Sri Lankan Australian, Engineer. I’m an engineer and revert to Islam (I’ve done a lot of research to come to this point).

This is my second year as a practicing Muslim. I have high emaan. My hobbies are fitness, reading, learning Arabic, engineering, modern history, cafés and restaurants, innovation. I’m looking for a devout practicing Muslim (Sunni) sister from any cultural background. Ideally a sister with very high emaan.

M20152: Male, 33, Indian Australian, Financial Analyst. I’m a revert to Islam, and I work as a financial analyst in a multi-national IT company seeking an educated Muslim woman from a cultured family.

M20151: Male, 34, Sri Lankan, Self-Employed. I have been living in Sydney for the past three years. I’ve been brought with traditional Islamic culture and am seeking to find a life partner in a halal way. I pray five times a day and read Quran every day.

I am a very religious person, and I am looking to marry a religious Muslim woman.

Placing a notice If you would like to place a notice, fill out the matrimonial form at: www.amust.com.au/marriage-bureau

Responding to a notice If you would like to respond to a notice, the matrimonial form at: www.amust.com.au/marriage-bureau and it will be emailed to them along with your email address.

All information is held in strict confidence

July 2015

UMMAH 15 - 16

EDUCATION 17 - 19

TRAVEL 20

SOCIAL 21

BUSINESS 22 - 23

LIFESTYLE

The Modest Bride takes a step forward

Mobinah Ahmad

The Modest Bride is a space for like-minded individuals who understand the struggle to ‘keep it modest’ on their big day and beyond.

Editor Saltanat understood that there was a unique gap in the bridal industry for those who appreciated an undeniably beautiful dimension of modesty, modernity and minimalism that is unapologetically informed by Islamic ideals.

The Modest Bride is a blog dedicated to inspiring and sourcing the best vendors of the business for the uber stylish yet demure bride.

It began as an Instagram account (@themodestbride) and after achieving a following of around 10,000 on Instagram, a website was developed.

The Instagram account has over 30,000 followers, Facebook over 1000 with regular traffic to the website as well.

When Sultanat started the instagram account, it was mainly a creative outlet on the side.

She said “what makes The Modest Bride unique is that it is informed by a radically different ethos to all the bridal websites out there.

It is uncompromising in its values and strives to instil them into every facet of a wedding.

It really is targeted at a niche audience by inspiring, and being inspired by, them (the target audience).

Every single post is carefully curated to fit a very specific aesthetic.

It has to portray a sense of beauty and professionalism that is one cannot help but

AMUST

appreciate.”

Modesty is a value shared by Muslims and people who aren’t Muslim alike, with varying definitions of the term.

It is inspired by the belief that people appreciate beauty objectively, separate from the values that inform the aesthetic.

The philosophy behind the The Modest Bride is to not compromise on the values of modesty when it comes to one’s wedding day.

Weddings these days have become the perfect excuse for extravagance. “I’m actually seeing a rise in over the top spending on flowers, the dress and cars in Muslim weddings.

Every value we hold dear is suddenly thrown out the window come one’s wedding.

The cultural norm to ‘show our best to the community’ really results in a lot of unnecessary, unethical choices to host a wedding that is in most cases unaffordable.”

The Modest Bride is really about showing people that one need not compromise on these values of ethics, morality and ultimately modesty, to achieve a beautiful and memorable wedding.

The aim of The Modest Bride is to remind people of the true purpose of a weddingthat is, marriage- and to begin this important stage in a person’s life by taking the best step forward.

To find out more about The Modest Bride, subscribe to the website for all the latest pictures, blogs and much more: www.themodestbride.com.au, enquiries info@themodestbride.com.au. Instagram: @themodestbride, Facebook: The Modest Bride

Ramadan Hero sighted at Quicksand marathon Hugh Riminton Assalam Alaikum and Happy Ramadan I was at Maroubra today with the kids and saw a torturous event, the Pat Farmer “Quicksand” marathon and half-marathon event, run through the soft sand of the beach.

The half-marathon was won by 20 years old Ali Najem of Bexley (seen standing on left). He completed the race in just over 92 minutes, despite observing the Ramadan fast.

A pretty impressive feat and I have no doubt a source of astonishment and pride for those many others observing their Ramadan obligations.

July 2015

Ali Najem (left) with Pat Farmer The gentleman on the right is Pat Farmer, former federal MP and Australia’s greatest ever ultra-distance runner.

www.amust.com.au

Australasian Muslim Times

13

LIFESTYLE

NEWS 1-2

BOOMERANG 3-5

COMMUNITY 6-9

AUSTRALIA 10 - 11

LIFESTYLE 12 - 14

Australia-Indonesia Muslim Exchange Program Part 2 AMUST

MOBYDAYZE Mobinah Ahmad Continuing on from Part 1, we are in the beautiful city of Bandung and then Jakarta. We visited Irsyad & Istiqlal Mosque, which left an impact on me. These mosques combine traditional Islamic philosophy with modern architecture - and its an incredibly unique feeling to visit such places.

The next day, we did a city seeing tour in Bandung, and got to visit Bandung Mosque which reminded me of blue lego design on the inside of the dome.

The mosques here are so unique, they use a fusion of modern and traditional elemental design and its very refreshing.

We went all the way to the top and observed the beautiful city of Bandung from a high level.

On our way back to Jakarta, Sarah suggested we visit Irsyad Mosque during Predusk in outer Bandung.

The mosque looked very modern on the outside (like a white block) which didnt really interest me.

Im so used to traditional Islamic architecture and historical designs whenever I visit mosques whilst travelling.

How foolish I feel for thinking that this mosque would be modern and boring.

As we entered in the mosque, we noticed

there was a large opening at the front, with a small body of water and a big metal sphere almost floating on top of it.

The opening revealed that the mosque was situated in beautiful countryside with the glorious setting sun, grass, trees, mountains and water.

It was one of the most spectacular mosques I have ever been to.

I couldn’t believe such a modern mosque, could make me feel so in tune to my traditional belief systems.

When i sat there, facing the direction of prayer, the view made me appreciate all the natural beauty God has offered to us in this world.

Nothing says Praise the bountiful glory of God quite like this mosque.

As the sun set over the mountains, the sky turned into brilliant colours of orange and coloured the sky, mountains and water. Felt like bathing in gold light.

What a way to pray to your creator.

It was as if you were in a modern building, but in front of you is one of the most stunning displays of nature I’ve seen on my trip - and its a very strange feeling, a good feeling, but it made some sort of emotional impact on me.

We went back in the car and were on our way back to Jakarta.

The first thing we did when arriving in Jakarta was go to Friday prayer at Istiqlal Mosque.

It was a beautiful sight - so many men and women praying, hundreds.

Mobinah Ahmad sitting at Irsyad Mosque in outer Bandung, Indonesia Whilst in prayer, the entire mosque echoed Ameen, which sent a small shiver down my spine. I definitely felt a strong spiritual and communal atmosphere here.

The aspect I like the most about Indonesia is the relaxed Muslim gender relations.

Women are not treated as some pretty thing that should be behind a curtain. Instead, we are able to walk freely wherever

we like, even if it’s in the men’s section.

And as we walk, we’re greeted with sincere salaams. No one tells us we can’t take photos or cannot go into certain areas. I really appreciate that.

Mobinah Ahmad is a professional social media analyst and AMUST Multimedia Journalist based in Sydney.

Once Upon A Kitchen, there were two sisters...

FOODIE ADVENTURES

A Meerah Once Upon a Kitchen, launched by sister duo Nisren and Mariam Metwally is a food directed Instagram account and more recently a Facebook group for the sharing of recipes, stories and connecting with likeminded foodies in the community.

The sisters launched the Instagram page almost a year ago as an outlet to share of their kitchen creations and passion for homemade food.

Once Upon a Kitchen stands out from the masses of food accounts on social media as a result of the sisters’ cultural fusion.

This fusion is represented in their food, coming from an Egyptian background and growing up in an Australian society.

Nisren says “Starting off, it was just a platform to share yummy eats, without a philosophy per se, but it evolved to encourage the notion that healthy eating can in fact be delicious, attainable, and that the occasional treat is more than okay.”

The page places an emphasis on encouraging members to cook or create a meal, and views cooking as a skill that everyone should master, regardless of age, gender or skill level.

Once Upon a Kitchen has gained a reputation of having healthy (most of the time) homemade food, recipes, creativity, food photography and styling.

Once Upon a Kitchen has gained success over the past year, with a following base of

14

Sister duo Nisren and Mariam promote healthy home cooking. over 2000 on Instagram.

In the short time that the Facebook group has been running, gathered over 500 members that heavily engage in posting pictures and sharing recipes.

The sisters did not anticipate that the page would gather this growing and diverse following base, both nationally and internationally.

Nisren and Mariam are approachable and down to earth, always more than happy to answer questions and connect with fellow foodies.

Once Upon a Kitchen is open to all and

Australasian Muslim Times

Egyptian warra’ enab vegetarian vine leaves.

attracts an audience from all walks of life and cultural backgrounds.

Essentially anyone from the novice to the seasoned cook are welcome to follow and join Once Upon a Kitchen.

Both sisters had their own private Instagram accounts where they often shared pictures of the same meals they created and ate together.

Friends and family encouraged and supported the idea of creating a shared account dedicated to food and in doing so.

This spared the followers on their private Instagram who were not so enthusiastic

www.amust.com.au

about their Instagram feed being flooded with tahini-drizzled-on-everything type of meals and smoothies with long lists of ingredients in the foreign language of ‘superfood’.

Rest assure, they have moved on from the ‘superfood’ phase and have taken a more balanced, fad-free (and evidence-based) approach to eating.

To keep up with Once Upon a Kitchen, you can follow their Instagram page @ onceuponakitchen and join their Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/onceuponakitchen/

July 2015

UMMAH 15 - 16

EDUCATION 17 - 19

TRAVEL 20

SOCIAL 21

UMMAH

BUSINESS 22 - 23

A dire situation in Afghanistan

AMUST

Mahboba Rawi is currently in Kabul on one of her regular visits and here she reports her alarm on arrival on this occasion at the situation in this beleaguered country.

Mahboba Rawi I have come to Kabul and when I walked out of the airport what I saw was the same as what I saw in 2002 when the Taliban had just left.

The poverty was unbelievable.

I was shocked because after ten years there seemed to have been no improvement. The road was full of kids begging. There were women sitting on the roads wearing burqa. They crowded around cars, ten to 15 around each vehicle. They would say things like, “I haven’t eaten” or “My children haven’t eaten for many days”.

I got into my car, but I couldn’t open the window. A crowd of women ran alongside.

They kept running for a few kilometres before they finally stopped.

I went to a place on the road where men out of work gather. They are there from 5am, hundreds of them.

I saw one man, very tall, rundown but he was still strong, around 45 years old.

“Every day I stand here”, he said. “But nobody picks me for work. Each day I go home with no money and no food. I have nothing for my family.”

It was the first time that I have seen an Afghan man cry. But when he started the men

around him wept also. They told me, “Tell the President, come kill all poor people! We do not want to die slowly like this. Put us out of our misery.”

When I got to Kabul I locked myself away for two weeks and cried. For the first time I felt I couldn’t raise the money I needed in Australia to help the people of Afghanistan.

I became anxious, I felt I was too tiny for this enormous problem.

It was a very emotional two weeks.

And everyday there are bombs in Afghanistan.

I saw two beautiful little girls going along the road. They were going for English education.

One wanted to be a police officer, one wanted to be a doctor. They had big black eyes. Beautiful and smart. So beautiful.

And they were killed by a bomb.

I hear shocking stories of poverty. People scrambling through potato scraps while the price of groceries is so high. Our existing projects cannot cope with the demand.

Things such as meat, sugar, bread are so expensive. Three times the cost they were recently.

If feels as though people are turning away

Foreign investment in Israel drops by 50%

Foreign direct investment (FDI) in Israel dropped by almost 50% last year in comparison to the year before as the country continues to feel the effects of last summer’s Gaza conflict, a new UN report has revealed.

The report, published by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), shows that only €5.7bn was invested into the country in 2014 in comparison with €10.5bn in 2013, a decrease of €4.8bn, or 46%.

Israel’s FDI in other countries also decreased by 15%, from €4.2bn in 2013 to €3.5bn last year.

Dr Ronny Manos, one of the report’s authors and a researcher in the department of Management and Economics at the Open University of Israel, said that the decline was primarily caused by the fallout from the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) Operation Protective Edge and international boycotts against the country for alleged violations of

Afghan woman, with children, begging on Kabul Street in Afghanistan. from Afghanistan, as their troops pull out.

It is so easy to feel defeated. But now I have left that room and I am ready to put all my effort back into our projects. I cannot be defeated.

To find out more about Mahboba’s Promise activities in Afghanistan and how you

Media Scan

international law.

International pressure on companies to refrain from investing in the Israeli economy has heightened with the rise of the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement. Last October, drinks company Sodastream International closed one of its West Bank factories in a victory for the movement. Despite the specific reasons given for the decline in FDI in Israel, the report also notes that FDI fell globally, from €1.3tn in 2013 to €1.1tn in 2014, a drop of 16%.

This global decline was caused by a number of geopolitical factors, such as instability in the Middle East and tensions between the West and Russia over Ukraine.

Mahboba Rawi is the founder of Mahboba’s Promise, a non-profit development organisation that supports the vulnerable of Afghanistan into self-sustainable livelihoods.

Palestine at a Crossroads conference

The “Palestine at a crossroads conference was held on Thursday 25 June at the NSW Parliament House in Sydney in order to review the question of Palestine and debate one state or two state solutions.

The conference was organized by Mr Shaoquett Moselmane MLC, Chair, Forum for Middle East Affairs.

There was a line of accomplished guest speakers who took turn in highlighting the issues in their own field of expertise Professor Emeritus Stuart Rees from the University of Sydney spoke on “The Power of Language in the Palestinian Political

Ainullah

can help during Ramadan visit the website at www.mahbobaspromise.org or Phone +61 2 9887 1665.

Struggle for a homeland.”

Associate Professor Dr Peter Slezak from the University of New South Wales talked about “The comparative analysis of Palestinian and Jewish rights – or claimed rights to a homeland.”

Associate Professor Ahmad Shboul from the University of Sydney spoke on “The Inter-Arab Crisis and its Impact on the Palestine Cause” Mr Ali Kazak, former Ambassador and Head of Delegation (Palestine) topic was “Is a Two State Solution still possible?”

Mr Tony Sabella, journalis and publisher described “The role of the Palestinian diaspora in the Palestinian Cause.”

There were a number of attendees from diverse backgrounds who engaged the speakers with questions and comments.

‘Ummahsonic’ Ramadan podcast

National initiative to engage with young British Muslims The Federation of Muslim Organisations (FMO) is planning to make Ramadan that little bit easier this year with the launch of ‘UmmahSonic’, a special free to download national daily podcast to run throughout the holy month.

Targeted at young Muslims, the series of podcasts will feature a host of high profile guests including, athletes, nasheed artists, fashion designers, bloggers and many more.

UmmahSonic which translates broadly as ‘sound of the community’ will be uploaded at 6pm each day, and will be available to

July 2015

listen online and for download from www. fmo.org.uk. The 30 minute podcasts will feature a variety of topics including faith and food, staying fit and healthy throughout the month, as well as current affairs, art and culture, and the importance of charity.

Suleman Nagdi, FMO, said: “This year, in order to reach a younger audience the FMO is going online with a free to download daily podcast, UmmahSonic, to make the show more accessible to listeners who can tune in at their leisure and never miss a show”.

To listen to UmmahSonic please visit www.fmo.org.uk.

From left: Ali Kazak, Prof Ahmad Shboul, Dr Peter Slezak, Mr Shaoquett Moselmane at the Palestine at a Crossroads conference.

www.amust.com.au

Australasian Muslim Times

15

AMUST

UMMAH

NEWS 1-2

BOOMERANG 3-5

COMMUNITY 6-9

AUSTRALIA 10 - 11

LIFESTYLE 12 - 14

Human Appeal International Australia provides aid to Rohingyan refugees Karim Elhawari Human Appeal International Australia’s director Bashar Al-Jamal spent the first days of Ramadan in Indonesia supervising the distribution of aid to the Rohingyan refugees in Indonesia as well as to poor Indonesian families.

The Rohingya’s Muslims from the Burmese (Myanmar) state of Arakan have been forced to flee their home homeland, leaving them to the mercy of people smugglers and travelling in boats rife with disease with

many deaths resulting from the sinking boats.

The first phase of the distributions took place at Muara Angke in North Jakarta.

There were many poor and needy families that would be struggling during Ramadan and around 156 families received food parcels and attended “Feed the Fasting” Iftars set up bu HAI Australia.

The next phase of the distributions took place at a Rohingyan Refugee camp in Bayuen, Aceh Timur. Upon meeting the Rohingyan refugees, their suffering became more apparent as they all had their own sto-

Bashar Al-Jamal helping serve Iftar for Rohingya refugees

ries detailing their perilous escape from Myanmar and the horrid conditions they faced on a daily basis, as well as the loss of their loved ones. Their journey on the boats in a desperate escape from their home country was filled with severe hardship as many were malnourished due to inadequate access to food and water.

Among the refugees was sister Anwara Begum, forced to flee Myanmur and had spent three and a half months on a boat before finding refuge in Indonesia.

Over 1150 benefited from the distribution of hygiene kits, food parcels and the iftar

provided for the refugees. Both the Indonesian families and the Rohingya refugees are thankful to Human Appeal for the aid that they have received.

Karim Elhawari is the Marketing Officer – NSW for Human Appeal International, Australia

Hygiene kit distribution to Rohingya refugees in Indonesia

It’s more than just a dollar Jasmine Ghandour Only a few days ago, I read a Facebook post by our friends at Islamic Relief Palestine that reminded me how easy it really is to forget how fortunate we are.

With some of us having so much to do in what seems like so little time, we sometimes find it difficult to take a moment to appreciate the things in our lives that we’re most thankful for like the people that make you smile, our homes, the food on our table, living in a country where we can execute our right to an education, our jobs and of course the generous supporters that make our life changing work possible.

16

When you help Islamic Relief deliver aid to people in dire need of assistance, your contribution means more than you think it does.

So how significant is the difference that your contribution helps us to achieve? Let me share three stories with you Bangladesh: When Tahirun’s husband died, she and her children were kicked out of their home, forced to beg on the streets We trained Tahirun in farming, and now she has her own field of crops, along with several other women supported by Islamic Relief.

She can now work using the skills that she’s learnt to feed herself and others.

Mali: In the poverty stricken areas of rural Mali, your contribution helped empower a group of women, allowing Islamic Relief to help them start a small business that now em-

ploys over 70 women and produces an ingredient that is now being imported by a cosmetics company in Paris!

Afghanistan: Abdul Sattar lives in Afghanistan a country where millions of people don’t have enough food to eat or even earn an income.

Your contribution has given father of eight, Abdul Sattar, livelihood. Islamic Relief’s project provided Abdul Sattar and 6,000 other people with the necessary tools and agricultural training they needed to earn enough to provide a decent living to feed themselves and their families.

So you see, your contribution is not just another dollar or an hour or a minute. Your contribution is bringing joy to so many people around the world, people that are exactly like you and I, just living under different circumstances.

So trust me, your contribution is not just another dollar. Your continued support can impact every aspect of their life.

Jasmin Ghandour is Digital Marketing Coordinator | Communications at Islamic Relief Australia.

Australasian Muslim Times

www.amust.com.au

July 2015

UMMAH 15 - 16

EDUCATION 17 - 19

TRAVEL 20

SOCIAL 21

EDUCATION

BUSINESS 22 - 23

AMUST

The 99 Divine attributes of Allah Part 11 - Attributes 51-52 of Allah BEYOND THE BOX Dr Q Ashfaq Ahmad This issue continues the series exclusive to AMUST on the 99 divine attributes of Allah.

Read previous parts at www.goo.gl/L1wvP2

51 – Al Haqq The Truth “ Say, (O Muhammad)1, Who provides (sustenance) for you from the sky and the earth?

Or who owns hearing and sight? And who brings forth the living from the dead and the dead from the living? And who governs the affairs? They will say, “Allah”. Then say, ‘Will you not become Allah conscious’ “Such is Allah, your Rabb in truth2. So after the truth, what else can they be, save error?3. How then are you turned away4 .

Thus the word (decree) of your Rabb is proved true against those who rebel (disobey) Allah. They will never believe.5 (Yunus,10:31-33) 1. Allah (God) reminds common humans through the prophet Muhammad to start thinking seriously and then change their present stubborn attitude.

2. If you really admit that all these functions are accomplished ultimately by God (Allah) as you perceive, then your true and real Rabb (Cherisher, Master, Proprietor of your loyalty and worship) is Allah (God). How any other can be considered as a partner in His divineness (provi-

dence).

3. His saying is the truth, His actions are truth, meeting with Him is the truth, His Messengers are the truth. His books are the truth. Everything that has to do with Him is the truth. This is because Allah is the Truth and whoever supplicates to anyone but Him is false because Allah is the Most High, The Great.

4. As the general public is addressed here, they are not questioned, “Where are you going or treading away?” The question is, “How then are you turned away?” Hence it is quite obvious that there is some misguided being or group that is persuading them, taking them from the right track to the wrong one. Thus the people are asked, why are you following behind those who mislead? Why don’t you apply your intellect? And after knowing the reality you shall not be away against your realisation. This type of question has been mentioned in Al-Qurʾan in many places and everywhere the dialogue is continued under the garb of passivity so that those who are perverted are not brought into the lime light. This is a very wise strategy that must be kept in mind.

5. People have been convinced in the Qurʾan through open and common sense arguments and reasoning but alas those, who had decided not to come back to the true belief, never adopt the right path because of prejudice and a stubborn attitude.

52 – Al-Wakil – The Dispenser of Affairs 101. He is the Organiser of heavens and the

earth. How can He have children when He has no wife? And He created all things and He is the All-Knower of everything.

102. Such is Allah, your Rabb! La Ilah Illa huwa (there is no deity but Him. He is the Creator of all things. So worship Him (alone), and He is Al-Wakil 52 (The Dispenser of Affairs) 103. Vision perceives Him, but He perceives (all) vision and He is Al-latif (The Most Subtle, Well- acquainted with all things) 104. Verily then has come to you enlightenment from your Rabb. So whoever sees will do so for (the good of) his own self, and whoever blinds himself, will do so to his own harm. And (say), “I am not the watcher over you1” .

105. And thus do we diversify the verses but they (disbelievers) wrongly say, “You have studied the Gospels and brought this as Qurʾan. So that we consider you as a people of knowledge”2 .

106. (O Muhammad!) follow what has been revealed to you from your Rabb; La Ilah Illa Allah and then turn away from the polytheists.

107. But if Allah has willed, they will have not taken other deity besides him to worship.

And we have never made you Al-Hafeez (The Watcher) or Al-Wakil (The Dispenser of Affairs) over them3.”

(Al- Anaam,6:100-107) 1. The verse 104 is the dialogue spoken by Allah through the prophet Muhammad just as chapter 1 Al-Fatiha is spoken by the human beings as prayer to Allah.

While these are the verses of Allah, the addressees are changed in Al-Qurʾan frequently - sometimes the prophet, sometimes the believers, sometimes the people of the book and then non believers and even sometimes all human-beings. All these are verses of Allah are conveyed as dialogue with other people. Hence the words, ‘I am not al-hafeez (the watcher) over you’ means that I have a specific job of conveying the enlightenment given to me from Allah to all human-beings. Now it is for you to ponder over it and I have nothing to do with you. I have not been assigned to force you for accepting Allah.’

2. This dialogue in verse no.105 is of the same nature that has been expressed in the beginning of the second long chapter Al-Baqarah (2:26). Allah makes it clear that he doesn’t mind to give the examples of minor creatures like mosquitos or moths as parables to make people understand by simple methods.

The fact is that the truthseekers get the correct lessons from these subtle parables but the persons who are intoxicated by arrogance and pride continue criticising and making jokes of ordinary and simple methods of explanation.

Hence, in this verse it is made clear in a different way. This dialogue clearly differentiates two type of persons. First

July 2015

www.amust.com.au

one are those who ponder over the main truth, it’s purpose and argument for understanding and believing the truth itself.

The second type are those who never ponder over the main purpose of message given to them. They start with a negative approach to seek out the flaws and the weakness in the message. They are prejudiced from the very beginning hence they never intend to take these things seriously and accept their truthfulness.

3. In this last verse the Prophet has been softly admonished for his concern and worry about the polytheists for their punishment in future if they don’t accept and believe in One Allah. Allah has forcefully informed the Prophet that he is only the Caller and Conveyor of His message to be given to the people. In this verse Allah is addressing the prophet: “O Prophet! Be reminded that Allah’s wisdom does not want to have every human being corrected forcefully. If it was his desire, you would not have been required by Allah for this purpose. Allah could easily perform it Himself. He is the Creator and all humans are created by Him. Just by His Will, and saying, ‘Let it be so’ all human beings would have accepted the belief in Allah. Allah does not want it so and therefore you should also not want it to happen.”

Allah wants to control and run the universe affairs according to His Plan, not according to humans’ nice desire for having every human being correct and true. Allah is very pertinent to maintain the freedom of every human individual to select his/her way of living according to his/her self-determined decision, not by the order or command of Allah by force. Allah clearly expresses his policies about this issue in the Qurʾan.

“There is no compulsion in religion. Verily, the Right Path has become distinct from the wrong path. Whoever disbelieves in Taghut (anything worshipped other than Allah (God)) and believes in Allah, then he has grasped the most trustworthy handhold that will never break. And Allah is All-Hearer, All-Knower. “ (Al-Baqarah, 2:256) If prophets control humans by force or compulsion to follow the correct path without having sincere belief and full dedication of one’s mind and heart for the message delivered by the prophet, the whole performance of such living in this world before the death and having the accountability of one’s ideas and actions would become meaningless.

Allah has given intellect, common sense and other faculties of other thinking and decision-making to human beings themselves.

Allah only values those who find the correct path with full freedom without any force by any other. This is the Will of Allah that must be followed.

Continued in AMUST issue #117 August

Australasian Muslim Times

17

AMUST

EDUCATION

NEWS 1-2

BOOMERANG 3-5

COMMUNITY 6-9

AUSTRALIA 10 - 11

LIFESTYLE 12 - 14

IFEW launches Usrah Network Programme Dr Q Ashfaq Ahmad It is with the Blessing of Allah that as Australian Muslims we have built Masjids, Musallahs, and Islamic Schools that are a major part of Islamic infrastructure in Australia.

Yet we feel the need for a comprehensive structured approach for Islamic learning, training and development within our families, friends and peers groups.

The Islamic Foundation for Education & Welfare (IFEW), based on its more than 30 years track record in the field of Islamic education and training is launching a well structured and organized Usrah Network programme for the Australian Muslim community.

The word Usrah, an Arabic word literally means family. However its technical usage is widely referred to a family group organized for the sake of learning and practicing Islam. Thus Usrah is similar to a study circle or Halaqa, a close knit group of family members, peer groups or Muslims organized in a locality with the aim of learning and practicing Islam and imparting it to others.

Usrah has been practised in some form in Egypt, Malaysia, South Asia as Halaqa and in Western countries including Australia in the form of study circles as well. The involvement of a family is more effective because of the blood bondages, cultural ties, and language similarities amongst each other.

There are different ways and means of running and conducting an Usrah program.

It is very beneficial for a group of individuals having different levels and stages of

knowledge and practice of Islamic directives.

As the living families or neighbour families have the advantage of having common participation in many activities, Usrah is very useful for the demonstration and performance of Islamic practices in a small group.

The Islamic Foundation for Education and Welfare has determined the following important factors to be discussed and formulated for a successful Usrah program, preferably to implement in the near future.

1. Successful comprehension of ideas: The group must have the level of knowledge and the fundamental aspects of Islam so that they can fully participate in the discussion and expression of ideas coming up in different ways in the minds of participants. For this it is better to have at least three types of Usrahs as distinct Usrahs: a. Children Usrahs up to the age of 12 years. b. Teenagers Usrahs between 12-18 years. c. Adult Usrahs, all the other persons who can be accommodated in this group.

2. Vehicle of language for Usrah: It is a big problem in a plural society. Every developed or developing society adopts one common language as the method of instruction in its country. Mostly this language is a conspicuous language, English, French, German, Greek, Arabic, Japanese, etc. Unfortunately the migrated persons from countries of other languages have the language problem between the new adopted language and their home country language. There is no other way

except to eventually get the people acquainted with three languages for Islamic Usrah: a. Adopted country’s language b. Mother tongue (language of originating country). c. Arabic language.

As a stop-gap management, we should have at least two groups: one very familiar with the adopted language, and the second one familiar with the home country language.

3. Every Usrah should have a competent coordinator, well-acquainted with both these languages, as well as basic knowledge of Islam and its practice in

contemporary society. He/She should be the main guide and facilitator for initiating and establishing the Usrah together with having simultaneous training of the organisers as well as Nazims for future stability and successful running of Usrah.

In order to understand the full Usrah Network programme, how to conduct it and how to network please please visit IFEW website and browse the resource materials and download them: www.usrah.ifew.com For further information contact: IFEW Usrah Network Administrator Email: Contact@ifew.com Phone: +61 2 9823 2063 Mailing address: PO Box 111, Bonnyrigg, NSW 2177

Give the gift of literacy and help change a refugee’s life forever Sara Saleh Books have always been a part of my life; growing up, reading was my refuge from the insecurities, the bullying, the hardships that life inevitably throws at you.

That’s why it was only natural that when my five childhood friends (also self-confessed book nerds!) and I got together in search of a way to give back to the community, it had to involve books!

This stemmed from one single belief: everyone should have the opportunity to fall in love with a good book, just as we were lucky enough to.

Unfortunately, many in Australia are denied this opportunity.

The refugee community in particular risks losing access to critical literacy programs run by refugee support groups.

These programs, which have helped thousands of refugees make the successful transition to Australian society, will disappear in the face of huge funding cuts.

These literacy programs run by well-re-

spected refugee support groups and foundations in Australia have helped change the lives of countless refugees for the better.

Sustainable initiatives such as ReBOOKs are vital in keeping these programs running, so that no refugee falls through the cracks.

We want to help ensure the best future possible for Australian refugees, so they can in turn participate in and contribute to the wider community.

On World Refugee Day, refugees fleeing from war zones and areas of natural disasters to the safer land of ‘Oz’ were offered an additional lifeline from ReBOOKs - a new organisation founded by a group of six childhood friends.

This is why ReBOOKS was born - it is a unique online bookstore, where 100% of profits from selling e-books go towards funding these existing literacy programs run

by our partners, established organisations like the Asylum Seeker Centre.

United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) figures show that the majority of refugees, and the worst affected, are women and children.

A quarter of refugees who come to Australia have very poor literacy skills, which makes it very difficult for them to participate in all aspects of Australian society.

We must keep these essential services running for the many refugees and asylum seekers, mostly women and children, coming to Australia in search of a new life.

We have just launched our Crowdfunding Campaign - and we are calling on the community to help us reach our goal of $20,000 so that we can develop the online platform!

In the spirit of giving this holy month, please support ReBOOKS, and help change a refugee’s life forever. To make donations, no matter how small, or for more information, visit our crowdfunding page here: www.startsomegood.com/rebooks.

ADVERTISE WITH AMUST

Sara Saleh is the co-founder of ReBooks, contact: info@rebooks.com.au.

ADVERTISE WITH AMUST NEWSPAPER ADVERTISING

ONLINE ADVERTISING

AMUST is circulated among all Australians but specifically targets the Muslim population of Australia. It is distributed to a variety of communities, different faith groups and government bodies within Australia.

AMUST lets you reach thousands of people all over the world with its website and email newsletter advertising. AMUST also has a strong online presence that includes social media such as Facebook, Twitter, Google+

Find out more at www.amust.com.au/advertising or call (02) 8003 2063

18

Australasian Muslim Times

www.amust.com.au NEWSPAPER ADVERTISING

July 2015 ONLINE ADVERTISING

UMMAH 15 - 16

EDUCATION 17 - 19

TRAVEL 20

SOCIAL 21

EDUCATION

BUSINESS 22 - 23

AMUST

The Muslim World, King John’s mission to Morocco and Ali Bonaparte Bilal Cleland Two great anniversaries of the European world, particularly the English speaking world, occurred in June. It witnessed the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo when Ali Bonaparte was defeated for the last time, and the 800th anniversary of the signing of Magna Carta, after King John had failed in his mission to the Emir of Morocco. Events in the Muslim world were associated with each of these events.

Engaged in a struggle with his barons, demanding increased feudal obligations to pay for his war with France, King John in 1213, actually “granted and freely surrendered to God and his Apostles Peter and Paul, to the Holy Mother Church of Rome, and to Pope Innocent and his successors, the whole realm of England.” This surrender of England to the Pope earned the wrath of the barons and brought no material assistance to King John.

Determined to get free from this vassalage

Sunshine Mosque

to the Pope and to get help for his struggle, King John decided to seek the support of the powerful Emir of Morocco. He sent a delegation of three envoys to Morocco, one of whom informed Mathew of Paris, a mediaeval historian, of his experience. Mathew was a courtier and a friend of King John’s son, Henry III. The delegation met with Mohammed al-Nassir, Emir of Morocco to when they pledged on behalf of their king that the realm of England would be held as tributary to Morocco. King John promised he would “abandon the Christian faith, which he considered false, and would faithfully adhere to the law of Mohammed.”

King John’s Offer Rejected After discussions in depth with the delegation, the Emir rejected the king’s proposal and dismissed the envoys, telling them to never let him set eyes on them again. “for the infamy of that foolish apostate, your master, breathes forth a most foul stench to my nostrils.” The barons heard about this treachery of the king and it strengthened them in their determination to bring him to heel. Having lost all hope of outside help, King John had to at least appear to submit.

Meeting at Runnymede 15 June 1215, the barons forced the king to append his seal to Magna Carta, which established a council of barons to supervise its implementation.

“The thirty-ninth by sequence …declares that “[no] free man shall be seized or imprisoned, or stripped of his rights or possessions, or outlawed or exiled, or deprived of his standing in any other way… except by the lawful judgement of his equals or by the law of the land”; the fortieth, “To no one will we sell, to no one deny or delay right or justice.””[Inside Story. 5 June 2015] This was the beginning of constitutional monarchy, for it constrained the power of the executive. No-one was above the law, not even the sovereign.

Although he had solemnly agreed not to seek to have the charter overturned by any outside authority, he appealed against it to the Pope, who immediately declared it null and void. By this time the Barons’ War was underway. Despite this betrayal, the Magna Carta went through several versions, the one we now rely upon being that of 1225. It has never been forgotten, unlike King John and his Moroccan delegation.

Occupation of Egypt 1798-99

The self-declared Emperor Napoleon, who betrayed the egalitarian French Revolution with his Bonapartist monarchy, was finally defeated at Waterloo on 18 June 1815. He descended in force upon the Muslim world with the invasion and occupation of Egypt in1798, when egalitarian republicanism was still strong in French thought.

He overthrew the Mamluk Beys in Egypt, claiming to establish an Islamic regime that paid homage to the “Empire of the Sultan” and the egalitarian laws of “the Prophet and his holy Quran.” His July proclamation to the Egyptians granted toleration to all religions, accepted Islamic beliefs and practices and dubbed republican Frenchmen “the friends of the true mussulmen.”

This created certainty in conservative Britain, engaged in war with revolutionary France, that “Jacobin” (left-wing) republicanism was founded on Islamic principles.”

The fact that the French had marched on Rome and overthrew the Throne of the Pope, who had stirred up the Christians against the Muslims, and that they had rid Malta of its Christian defenders, demonstrated that they were true friends of the Ottoman sultans, the enemy of Christendom. In fact, Bonaparte claimed to the Egyptians that his Italian campaign and attack on Malta had been waged on behalf of the Sultan and the Muslim faith against the corrupt forces of the Pope and Christian “unbelievers.” This fell through when Sultan Selim declared war on France. Then Bonaparte adopted the guise of the Mahdi, come to bring back Islamic justice.

“Casting himself as a Muslim convert, Bonaparte adopted the name of Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet, to appease the elite Egyptian clerics and quell any revolts among Cairo residents who resented foreign occupation under Christian infidels.

Supposedly the French came as deist liberators rather than colonizing crusaders.”

(Garcia 138) He even tried converting the French army to Islam legally without undergoing the Muslim practice of circumcision and imposing the wine drinking prohibition.

This was of course rejected by Al Azhar.

The Ottoman and British military forces eventually forced out the French in 1801, but Bonaparte had already fled to Paris, where he staged the 1799 coup which made him “First Consul for Life.” However he seems to have genuinely admired the Prophet and Islamic civilization. In his private memoir he wrote: “Muhammad declared that there was only one God, who had neither father nor son and that the Trinity imported an idea from paganism…Muhammad was a prince; he rallied his compatriots around him. In a few years, his Muslims conquered half the world. He rescued more souls from false gods, overturned more idols, and pulled down more pagan temples in fifteen years than adherents of Moses and Jesus Christ had in fifteen centuries.” (Garcia 140) What some of us find most appealing about this era is that the support given by the Jacobins for Islamic republicanism, drove the Tory conservatives to the point of hysteria.

Bonaparte’s proclamation to the Egyptian people was translated into English and used by the British government to attack radical writers and deist freethinkers, trying to associate them with a French-Ottoman plot to destroy Christianity. The use of Islamophobia against political enemies is a long established Tory political ploy, still being used in Australia. The declaration of war by the Ottomans against France was said to be a cunning ploy to mislead European opinion.

Egalitarian republicanism was treated “as a corrupt political theology imported from the Muslim world.” (Garcia 143) References Garcia, Humberto. Islam and the English Enlightenment 1670-1840. The Johns Hopkins University Press. Baltimore. 2012 Ronay, Gabriel. The Tarta Khan’s Englishman. Phoenix Press. London. 1978 Bilal Cleland is a keen reader, a prolific writer and a regular columnist of AMUST based in Melbourne.

Mosques from around the world

The Sunshine Mosque, is an Ottoman/Turkish-style Mosque in Sunshine, a suburb of Melbourne, Australia. The Mosque contains 17 domes, a minaret, and a courtyard.

It was built in 1992, by the Turkish Cypriot community in Melbourne. The Mosque was designed to mirror the Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey. According to a recent calculation by the committee of the Cyprus Turkish Islamic Society, the total expenditure of the Mosque exceeds $2,500,000.

Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/ mosquesfromaroundtheworld July 2015

www.amust.com.au

Australasian Muslim Times

19

TRAVEL

NEWS 1-2

BOOMERANG 3-5

COMMUNITY 6-9

AUSTRALIA 10 - 11

LIFESTYLE 12 - 14

People of Indonesia AMUST

Mobinah Ahmad

Known as Ibu (mother in Indonesian), her husband started a Pesantren (Boarding School) in Cirebon. After his death, she runs it with her sons and daughter. She is the matriarch of the family. She can sing beautifully and attracts children to Islam by reciting beautiful verses of the Quran. She is a bold woman, and speaks her mind. (Cirebon)

This is the Batik Girl Roadshow leader Lusia Efriani. She organised to employ and train women ex-prisoners to make and sell dolls as a means of creating a new and productive life after release. (Jakarta)

Pangeran Sultan Arif Natadiningrat. The Sultan of Cirebon comes for a long line of ancestors related to Sunan Gunungjati. He talked about his past, educated us on the great work Sunan Gunungjati did by spreading Islam and who would take over him once he’s gone. It was a pleasure to meet Indonesian royalty. (Cirebon)

Ustadh Ibnu. “My wife studies as well as being a mother. Her mother looks after the baby when she is studying. Caring for your child is important, however I also believe Education is important. This is why I encouraged my wife to study. Not all Indonesian men have this mindset, it depends on the man.” (Cirebon)

Puat’s daughter was in a bit of a mood, but for a slight moment out of nowhere, she caressed her father’s face and then returned to hating on me for ruining her daddy-time.

At the Palace of the Sultan of Cirebon, this man was sweeping the leaves. He looked pretty chill, smoking a ciggie whilst brooming the leaves. (Cirebon)

Satu. Satu means one. His name is One. He was one of the respected Palace workers, well dressed and greeted guests. He gave us a tour of the museum as we waited to see the Prince of Cirebon. He came up to just below my shoulders, but he was quite a dynamic man!

“These fathers gave up everything for their children to be educated.” These fathers sat behind as their children had their memorisation of the Quran tested. They are so proud of their kids.

(Cirebon)

Traveller’s Fiqh: The definition of a traveller WAYFERER’S COMPASS Abdul Hadi Shah Idil Difficulty brings about ease. And travelling, no doubt, is a testing exercise, being continuously on the go, leaving our comfort zones, testing our limits, discovering more about ourselves and our surroundings.

But with this difficulty does come ease.

Generally speaking, this ease comes in the form of relaxing certain conditions and pillars of particular obligations.

Or in other words, making permissible that which normally wouldn’t be so.

Let’s take prayer for example. We know that a condition of a valid prayer is that you face the qiblah.

However, a traveller can pray facing away from the qiblah given specific circumstances. Shortening the four-rakaah prayers to two is another example of this principle, where the obligation of praying four has been lifted in the event of travelling.

The word traveller has its general usage in everyday vernacular and a more specific usage in the realm of fiqh.

We are concerned with the latter here, and so we refer to the scholars of fiqh, not conventional usage, to determine the meaning of the word.

For example Al-Quduri of the 5th century says, “Travel that is given consideration in [legal] rulings is the travel of someone

20

who intends a location that is of a distance of three days travel by camel and foot.” Or, in more commonly used units of measure, it is travel of a distance of 77 kilometres (48 miles).

Now a few details surface when applying this rule. Particularly because we tend to conflate between the conventional and fiqh meanings of the word travel.

For example, when am I considered a traveller? Can I be considered a traveller before leaving the city limits? Between which points do I calculate the distance of my travel? Am I always considered a traveller while abroad?

Once you’ve started your journey, which is once you’ve stepped out the door right?

Yes, according to everyday vernacular, but not according to fiqh usage.

According to fiqh, you’re a traveller only once you’ve exited the city limits, while intending a journey of 77 kilometres or more.

Al-Quduri says, “Whosoever leaves as a traveller prays two rakaahs [for Dhuhr and Asr] once he parts ways with the city houses [read: city limits.]”

The correct method is to start calculating the length of your journey upon leaving the limits of your city. Why? Because that’s when you’ve become a traveller in the fiqh sense of the word mark-

Australasian Muslim Times

ing the beginning of your journey.

The definition of a traveller according to fiqh presents a situation where you could be abroad and not a traveller.

This is when you’ve reached your destination and intend to reside there for 15 days (360 hours) or more.

Al-Quduri says, “One remains in a state of travel until he intends to reside in a city for 15 days or more.” How do you re-enter the state of travel? By embarking upon another journey of 77 kilometres or more.

www.amust.com.au

Abdul Hadi Shah Idil is the founder and Principal Instructor at SanadArabic.com.

He is a continuing student of the Hanafi School of Islamic Law and has permission to teach it at an Introductory level.

The article has been edited. To see the full article, please visit www.amust.com.au Traveller’s Fiqh was initially published on Wayfarer’sCompass.com, a website dedicated to Muslim travellers.

July 2015

UMMAH 15 - 16

EDUCATION 17 - 19

TOP 5 Muslim Memes

TRAVEL 20

SOCIAL 21

#SOCIAL TOP 4

BUSINESS 22 - 23

TOP 5

VIDEO

Instagram Accounts

AMUST

Facebook Pages to Like

To Watch

@Azizaesque

Live from Makkah

Fajr in Sydney is evening in Mecca. Watch the unique opportunity to watch a live coverage of taraweeh.

@Calligraphy_artists

Scan the QR Code or visit www.youtu.be/ Yu2lmo3TrfY to see the video.

Humans of Ramadan

www.fb.com/HumansofRamadan Humans of Ramadan is an initiative started by 40 Acres Photography to give voice to Muslims and non-Muslims alike during the Islamic month of Ramadan.

PICTURES Of The Month Lakemba @Jannah_daydream

Share Ramadan

www.fb.com/shareramadan Make this Ramadan extra special and tell others of different faiths or no faith about this beautiful month - #shareramadan #makeitcount

@Qalamarts

From Instagram, Sarah_and_the_City: “I went to the local Islamic bookstore today, whilst waiting to cross the road I saw this man asking the old lady how she’s been, behind her is zam zam water, locally sourced fruits for sale, the infamous mannequin, Islamic homewares and charity posters. I smiled and took a photo of the perfect Lakemba postcard, because if you only read the papers you’d have no idea what a gem this place really is. #‎sydneylocal #‎lakemba”

Ramadan Recipes

www.fb.com/Ramadan-Recipes Do you have a favourite recipe that you think will make this Ramadan one to remember? Its hard to think of what to cook so I hope we can brainstorm together to help Muslim Sisters everywhere.

@Petergouldart

From Facebook, Mohamed Taha “Traditional Syrian lamb shawarma at #‎Lakemba #‎Ramadan night markets. Late night snack anyone? #‎streetfood — at Haldon St Lakemba.”

July 2015

www.amust.com.au

Ramadan TV Australia www.fb.com/ramadanTVau

Watch short Reflections from the Revelations videos. Live broadcast in Sydney and Melbourne on Channel 44.

Australasian Muslim Times

21

AMUST

BUSINESS

Boutique Law Firm in Parramatta

AMUST Media

Lydia Shelly, one of Sydney’s leading lawyers and community advocates, is set to launch a boutique law firm in the heart of Parramatta from July.

Shelly Legal will provide high quality legal services to clients, including in Family, Criminal and Wills and Estates Law. Lydia is admitted as a lawyer in both the Supreme Court of New South Wales and the High Court of Australia. She holds a Masters of Family Law and a Graduate Diploma in Family Dispute Resolution (mediation).

In addition to Lydia’s experience representing clients in court on a range of matters, she has also presented evidence at several Parliamentary inquiries into proposed laws relating to criminal offences and counter terrorism legislation.

Shelly Legal promises to “not only provide legal services, but to provide excellent

client care”.

“As a Lawyer, it is a privilege to have the opportunity to be a trusted advisor to clients, often in very traumatic circumstances, such as when a family member has passed away, or has been charged with serious offences by the police. The client-lawyer relationship is at the heart of providing excellent client care”.

Shelly Legal will also offer embrace alternative methods of billing, such as offering fixed fee arrangements for legal matters “so that the client can know exactly how much their matter will cost from start to end”.

For elderly or mobility-affected clients, they also benefit from Shelly Legal offering home or hospital visits.

Lydia will continue to support the community through Shelly Legal, such as offering legal workshops and seminars and by continuing to work with a number of community organisations.

NEWS 1-2

BOOMERANG 3-5

COMMUNITY 6-9

AUSTRALIA 10 - 11

LIFESTYLE 12 - 14

Call now

9615 9605

FAMILY LAW

WILLS & ESTATES LAW

CRIMINAL LAW

Shelly Legal is a boutique law firm committed to providing high quality legal services and exceptional client care.

Suite F, Level 1, 110 George Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 (02) 9615 9605

0449 039 920

www.shellylegal.com.au

info@shellylegal.com.au

Principal of Shelly Legal, Lydia Shelly

AMUST Classifieds Charity Organisations

Services

Buy/Sell/Trade

Halal Food

Human Appeal International Human Appeal International (HAI) works on a number of charitable causes, specialising in areas from Social and Educational Development to Health Care and Emergency Relief.

Phone: 1300 760 155 Website: www.humanappeal.org.au

SAMAA South Asian Muslim Association of Australia (SAMAA) aims to provide care to the elderly of South Asian Muslim Community.

Phone: (02) 9543 9769 Website: www.samaa.org.au

Hygienic Spray (for toilet) Shattaf Tahara Spray. Stainless steel hose.

Including free installation with diverter/ connector. Long distance charges apply Phone: 0418 204 251 Email: sasdqi@gmail.com

Fujiyama Japanese cuisine 100% Halal Japanese made by chefs with 12 years experience in Japan. Contact our team today for catering enquiries big or small.

Phone: 0490 402 164 Website: www.facebook.com/ FujiyamaJapaneseCuisine

Australian Relief Organisation (ARO) Our mission is to help people from all races, ages, religions, and social statuses in order to spread kindness around the world and to create and follow social support models.

Phone: (02) 8065 8469 Website: www.aro.org.au

UAK Design Design and construction. Architectural & structural plans, Renovation & Extensions, Project Management, Duplex, Granny Flat.

Phone: 0411 081 624 Email: info@uakdesign.com.au

Multicultural Eid Festival & Fair MEFF provides stallholders the opportunity to sell or promote to the Muslim community. Stall bookings open on Monday 20 May 2015 Phone: (02) 9823 2063 Website: www.meff.com.au

ADVERTISE WITH AMUST

Islamic Relief Australia Islamic Relief Australia promotes sustainable economic and social development by working with local communities to eradicate poverty, illiteracy and disease.

Phone: 1300 308 554 Website: www.islamic-relief.com.au Australians for Revive Kashmir We are a part of a global initiative, aimed at providing help and support to the people in Kashmir - to contribute towards rebuilding and rehabilitation.

Phone: 0457 766 425 Website: www.kashmir.org.au

22

Great Wall Kitchen Great Wall Kitchen makes great Indian style Halal Chinese food. We are located at 154 Haldon Street, NSW. Phone: (02) 9759 9531 Website: www.facebook.com/gwkhalal

Halal Square Australia’s favourite online guide to restaurants and eateries offering halal food, halal groceries and restaurant reviews.

Covering all major capital cities in Australia Website: www.halalsquare.com.au

NEWSPAPER ADVERTISING

ONLINE ADVERTISING

AMUST is circulated among all Australians but specifically targets the Muslim population of Australia. It is distributed to a variety of communities, different faith groups and government bodies within Australia.

AMUST lets you reach thousands of people all over the world with its website and email newsletter advertising. AMUST also has a strong online presence that includes social media such as Facebook, Twitter, Google+

Australasian Muslim Times

Find out more at www.amust.com.au/advertising or call (02) 8003 2063

www.amust.com.au

Homebush Halal Meats A halal butcher in Ashfield, provides you with the best and freshest halal meats in the area. We stock lamb, beef, goat, poultry and game meat.

Phone: (02) 9799 7049 Website: www.homebushhalalmeats.com.au

July 2015

FINANCE

Own a home with a deposit as low as

5

%

EasyHome Saver is a shariah-compliant financing product by EFSOL that allows you to own your dream home with a deposit as low as 5%!

All it takes for you is to invest a minimum 5% cash deposit with EFSOL, make ongoing monthly contributions with no withdrawals for upto 1 year and EFSOL will provide the finance you need to purchase your dream home**.

1 year

5% deposit with EFSOL

Make monthly contributions

Make NO withdrawal

5% Bonus from EFSOL

Move in to your home

Key Features 100% Shariah-compliant — Musharakah Low Deposit* — No Problem!

Fast Approval** Title in your name Fixed monthly repayments Finance term up to 30 years Share incidental ownership costs proportionately * MINIMUM 5% of the Property Price

Riba-free finance Bad credit history? No problem!

Halal returns on deposited balance Share profit/loss proportionately.

Unlimited free extra repayments Flexible repayment plans No Banks/FI involved Convenient online process ** Subject to credit approval and underwriting

Don’t delay call! 1800 183 133 or Apply Now! Equitable Financial Solutions Pty Ltd ABN 86 151 172 039, Authorised Credit Representative No. 417248

visit: www.efsol.com.au July 2015

www.amust.com.au

Australasian Muslim Times

23

24

Australasian Muslim Times

www.amust.com.au

July 2015