Issue 149 April 2018 by AMUST

AMUST

AUSTRALASIAN MUSLIM TIMES

www.amust.com.au ISSUE # 149

Multicultural News & Views

APRIL 2018; RAJAB 1439

Gambling Harm Awareness

BOOMERANG PAGE 6

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Awards and $6000 Scholarships

COMMUNITY PAGE 8

E-Newspaper Available

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Amna & Assmaah join Power List LIFESTYLE PAGE 21

Bilal wins prestigious Harmony Medal

Covenants of Compassion EDUCATION PAGE 25

Sheikh Afifi appointed new Mufti

Theresa Dyckman Councillor Bilal El-Hayek was awarded the prestigious Stephan Kerkyasharian AO Harmony Medal at the Premier’s Harmony Day Dinner on Wednesday 21 March 2018, at Rosehill Gardens Racecourse in Sydney. The Premier’s Harmony Dinner is the flagship of Multicultural March highlighting rich cultural diversity as a strength of the state of New South Wales where individuals are presented with Multicultural Community Medals and inducted to the Multicultural Honour Roll. The event was hosted by the Minister for Multiculturalism, Mr Ray Williams MP, in the presence of the NSW Premier, Ms Gladys Berejiklian MP and organised by Multicultural NSW. Three members of the Muslim community received top honours at the event attended by more than 1000 people including community leaders, politicians, government officials and business leaders. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian presented the Stepan Kerkyahsarian AO Harmony Medal to Bilal El-Hayek, the Arts and Culture Medal to Shireen Taweel and the Youth Medal to Bassam Maaliki. Minister for Multiculturalism, Ray Williams commended Mr El-Hayek, Ms Taweel and Mr Maaliki on their extraordinary efforts in promoting harmony and social cohesion. “Working in fields as diverse as the arts, youth work and social media, all three med-

Sheikh Abdel Aziem Al-Afifi. Zia Ahmad

Bilal El-Hayek (right) with Mr Ray Williams MP. al winners demonstrate no matter what your background or passion you can contribute meaningfully to our State,” Mr Williams

said. Continued on page 16 with photos

Islamic finance in Australia Experts discuss the changing landscape in the Australian market Mobinah Ahmad More than 100 key CEOs and Directors within the Islamic Finance Industry, as well as regulators, senior industry players and key stakeholders, packed out the top floor of the Governor Macquarie Tower at King & Wood Mallesons in Sydney on Tuesday 27 March at the 5th IFN Australia Forum 2018 exploring and engaging in constructive discourse on Australia’s Islamic finance sector. Over 18 experts in Islamic finance industry presented and discussed key topics such as Islamic investment opportunities, portfolio construction and the importance of diversification, further growth and opportunity for shariah-compliant investment funds and Islamic real estate investment, property and construction finance. Australia may still be lacking in dedicated Islamic finance laws, however, its stability,

as proven by its unbroken record of continued economic expansion over the last 26 years and lucrative real estate sector, has attracted strong interest from Islamic investors from Southeast Asia and the Middle East. To cope with the demand, the very first Islamic bank in Australia project is currently underway by IBA Group with the intention to offer investment-linked retail and fund management products and services, compliant with Shariah governance and Australian regulatory rules and regulations. This is a significant initiative to facilitate and enhance Shariah compliant banking and finance in Australia. Professor Dr John Hewson, one of Australia’s most experienced economists, financial experts and company directors was the keynote speaker for the event. Continued on page 4

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Professor Dr John Hewson gave the keynote address.

Sheikh Abdel Aziem Al-Afifi has been appointed as the Grand Mufti of Australia for a three-year term. He succeeds Dr Ibrahim Abu Muhammed, who held the post since 2011 for maximum of two consecutive terms of three years. The appointment was announced at the 11th General Assembly of the Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) convened on Sunday 18 March 2018 at its headquarters in Chullora, Sydney. ANIC is the peek Islamic religious and legal authority, representing Muslims in Australia comprising of more than two-hundred Imams and Muslim scholars of different backgrounds and schools of thought across all states in Australia. The ANIC Executive Committee, led by its current President Sheikh Shady Alsuleiman, consisting of eighteen eminent member Imams was charged with electing the new Mufti at the General Assembly. The newly elected Grand Mufti concluded his acceptance speech with the following words: “We, as the Muslim community open our hearts and extend our hands to the wider Australian community. Let’s work together in order to advance Australia, to preserve our shared values, which makes Australia the great nation that it is. Sheikh Afifi was born and received his Islamic education in Egypt specialising in Quranic education. In 1994, he moved to Jordan where he was employed as an Imam by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and later appointed as an administrator over the centres for teaching of the Quran. He arrived in Australia in the year 2000 and served a number of Islamic societies and schools helping them with the institutionalised teaching of the Quran. He served as the elected President of ANIC for two terms from 2010 to 2015. Since 2010 he has been working at Al-Taqwa Islamic college in Truganina, Victoria and also serves as the Imam and Khateeb at Al-Taqwa Masjid adjoining the school. His appointment was shown live on Al Jazeera Mubasher Channel as well as broadcast by online channel OnePath based in Sydney.

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AUSTRALASIAN MUSLIM TIMES

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ISSUE 149 / APRIL 2018

APRIL 2018 / ISSUE 149

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AUSTRALASIAN MUSLIM TIMES

NEWS

NEWS 1-4

BOOMERANG 5-7

COMMUNITY 8 - 12

AUSTRALIA 13 - 15

CENTREFOLD 16 - 17

Islamic finance in Australia Experts discuss the changing landscape in the Australian market AMUST

Mr Chaaban Omran, CEO of Islamic Financial Services Council of Australia (IFSCA).

From left: Ariff Sultan, Dr Rashid Raashed, Hilton Wood, Hakan Ozyon, Issam Eid and Mohamed Hage.

Continued from page 1 CEO of Islamic Financial Services Council of Australia (IFSCA), Mr Chaaban Omran gave the welcoming remarks and an insightful presentation on Responsible Islamic Finance in Australia. He disagreed with the previous panel that discussed the need for the term Shariah-compliance. “We don’t need to throw terms like Shariah-compliance around. As Dr Jalal said, the essence is all about asset based, even Almir (Colan) said to focus on the transaction. We don’t need anything different, or special just for the Australian Muslim community,” said Mr Chaaban Omran. Dr Rashid Raashed, Chief Shariah Audit Executive and Board member for the Islamic Bank Australia (IBA) Group provided an insight from a religious perspective on living with the intention of being prosperous in the righteous path. “If you want to live in this life, you should

ask for a decent life. You can be the best performer and use this universe as it was subjugated for you. What is good for humanity is also good for Muslims; as long as you avoid what is forbidden,” said Dr Raashed. “For a board to be truly Islamic, the board must provide a watertight constitutional guarantee that all services must be shariah-compliant,” he further added. Dr Raashed clarified the IBA position on the matter of Interest: “Interest, the Arabic word Riba has prohibition but there is no legal definition of interest in the Quran. You have to go through the application of interest throughout history. Any extra percentage of the money you have lent on the time elapsing - is interest.” A member of the audience asked Dr Raashed, “How will the bank make money without interest?” Dr Raashed replied “We will not impose interest, there is enough money to be made without interest.”

AUSTRALASIAN MUSLIM TIMES

The speakers at the 5th IFN Australia Forum 2018 included: Keynote speaker: Professor Dr John Hewson. Board Member, IBA Group (former Opposition Leader of Australia). Dr Abul Khair Jalaluddin – Director, Islamic Financial Services Council of Australia (IFSCA). Ariff Sultan – Regional Director - Asia, IdealRatings Inc. Christopher Aylward – Partner, Banking and Finance, Madison Marcus. Hakan Ozyon – CEO, Hejaz Financial Services and Senior Portfolio Manager, Global Ethical Fund. Dr Imran Lum – Director, Islamic Finance, National Australia Bank. Mahanoor Hassan Khan – Operations Manager, Islamic Cooperative Finance Australia Ltd. Dr Muhammad M Khan – CEO, Halal Aus-

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tralia. Muzzammil Dhedy – COO, Hejaz Financial Services Almir Colan – Director, Australian Centre For Islamic Finance. Chaaban Omran – CEO, Islamic Financial Services Council of Australia (IFSCA). Dale Rayner – Partner, King & Wood Mallesons. Hilton Wood – Chief Representative Officer, Doha Bank, Australia. Issam Eid – Portfolio Manager, Sigma Funds Management. Mohamed Hage – Head of Investments and Research, CPG Research and Advisory Pty Ltd. Dr Rashid Raashed – Chief, Sharia’h Audit Executives (SAE) and Board Member, Islamic bank Australia Project/IBA Group. The 5th IFN Australia Forum 2018 was organised in association with AUSCIF with AMUST as its National Media Partner.

ISSUE 149 / APRIL 2018

LIFESTYLE 18 - 22

UMMAH 23 - 24

EDUCATION 25 - 27

TRAVEL 28

BUSINESS 29

BOOMERANG

SOCIAL 30 - 31

AMUST: a unique platform for positive news The general perception of news is to be mainstream media channels. negative, extraordinary, sensational and AMUST has developed its own network unusual that will draw the readers and of a diverse variety of skilled writers from excite them. This is the conventional all over Australia and some from overseas strategy that mass media use to attract voluntarily submitting positive news stories readership or views on TV and now in order to share what is good, that is hapempowered individuals on social media pening in the community. adding to their likes statistics. We are publishing only original articles If a dog bites a man, this is no news. written by our columnists on a regular baHowever, if a man bites a dog, this is big sis on a variety of subjects as community news, worthy of a headline and possinews. Who is doing good where and bly framed on front pages of the when and what is its positive imtabloids. pact on the community. This If a robber steals a lady’s is healthy news, giving the purse, this is news, howevreader a sense of optimistic er, if a gentleman helps an worldview, that it’s not all old lady cross the street, that bad out there. Zia Ahmad this is no news worthy of Out writers come from being reported anywhere. a diverse cultural backAssalamu Conventional newsground, faiths, ages, ethAlaikum papers and mass media nicities, philosophies while outlets including news maintaining a good gender Greetings agencies largely highlight balance as well, and as a matof Peace negative news, wars, murders, ter of fact, we have more female terror attacks, fires, rapes and aswriters than male writers. saults. This is bad for the mental health of Moving with the technology we are prothe consumers of this kind of news, result- viding a diverse platform for the dissemiing in a pessimistic worldview, feelings of nation of positive news from the print vermisery and ultimately depression among sion of the newspaper to the AMUST digital consumers. version in pdf, to be read on desktops, lapWell AMUST has turned this philosophy top and smartphones as well as a dynamic of negative news on its head. website complementing it with social media AMUST offers a unique mass media platforms. platform that is highlighting positive news, We are also sharing the positive news not available through news agencies and currently twice a month via our AMUST

I have just had time to read in full the AMUST Issue # 148, March 2018. I am amazed with the coverage on such a large variety of issues which are of interest to Muslims. I particularly enjoyed the Editorial about the valuable energy of Muslims being diverted to positive steps and uplifting the Muslim community in Australia and New Zealand. It is so heartening to read the achievement of Muslims in Australasia and the various Awards offered or won. I gained so much valuable information of interest to Muslims such as AFMI Convention, Clash between Science and Religion and the likes. No wonder AMUST has been recognised as the Project of the Year. Congratulations! Jazakumullaho khair and sincere thanks to you and your team on behalf of the Muslims of Australasia for your dedication and hard work. Dr Anis Rahman Hamilton, New Zealand

Murdoch press bias

There should be a united effort by all Muslims to sue these papers and the journalists who wrote them otherwise they will continue to attack us. Michael Hawatt Sydney

HSC high achievers applauded

I have just read with great pleasure the account of the wonderful success of so many Muslim students in the recent HSC. That is a great achievement of which your whole community must be extremely proud. Imogen Kelly Sydney

Malek Fahd fiasco

Zia Ahmad recently wrote about Islamophobia in the press. I responded that the element is apparent but that there were issues definitely played down to protect Islamic leaders from themselves. How much could APRIL 2018 / ISSUE 149

Re: The Sydney Cycling Sisters: Lovely to see women riding together and also the movie that brings Israeli and Palestinian together. Debra Bruce

Re: Mainstream posed

media

ex-

The Murdoch press has been used as a political instrument by the ultra-right for decades. I will never forget the venomous campaign against Whitlam in 1975, supporting the illegal dismissal of the PM and the ignoring of the will of the House of Representatives on the same day. Although he has abandoned Australian citizenship, this press baron still seeks to guide the political course of this nation. Bilal Cleland

Al Noori Muslim School - Class of 2017 HSC Results

Congrats to kids & Al Noori May Allah fulfil all you wishes of this kids. Amazing! Mohammad A This was the fight and persistence of the beautiful Silma Ihram. My teacher. Anisa K Thank you Anisa K - that is really sweet of you. To be honest though - this is all your work. Congratulations to both of you! I am sure that you will support him and assist him in the decisions that he makes now to discover how he will contribute to the world around him.! Silma Ihram

News

1-4

- Bilal wins Harmony Medal - Islamic Finance in Australia

5-7

Boomerang

8 - 12

Community

- Muslim Achievement Awards - House of Sakinah: 5 Years

Australia

13 - 15

- Australia-Indonesia Youth Meeting - Advocacy for Legal Support

Centrefold

16 - 17

- Premier’s Harmony Medals

Lifestyle

18 - 22

- Assmaah Kicking Goals - Gear Up Girl

Ummah e-Newsletter sent to tens of thousands of email addresses in Australia as well as overseas sharing positive stories with the world. We are employing state of the art techniques in the submission of articles to AMUST and their processing from editing to proofreading and printing with user-friendly processes and procedures. AMUST will be soon completing its fourth year of publication in these new formats and we wish to thank our writers for their contributions and thank our subscribers and readers for their patronage.

Readers comments Subscribe a biased media make out of this situation? How much would they have made of it if a Christian school was caught operating the same scam? Let hope the new Mufti Sheikh Afifi will be able to pull people into line. Richard Waddy Lynwood WA

AMUST ISSUE # 149 FRIDAY 30 MARCH 2018 12 RAJAB 1439

- Gambling Harm Awareness - Muslims Like Us

EDITORIAL

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23 - 24

- Babri Masjid Issue - Hamid Ansari on Indian Diversity

Education

25 - 27

- The Covenants of Compassion - Vaccination In Islam

Travel - Aspiring Leaders Tour 2018

Business

- 2018 Australian Investment Rules - Four Things Before Litigating

Social

30 - 31

- Muslims in the Mainstream - Apps for Ramadan

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.

AMUST Team

Editor-in-Chief: Zia Ahmad Managing Editor: Mobinah Ahmad Graphic Designer: Rubinah Ahmad Chief Adviser: Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad Multimedia Journalist: Zaynab Gul Multimedia Journalist: Faseeha Hashmi Sub-Editor: Mohammed Sinan Siyech Sub-Editor: Aisha Mohsin Columnist: Dr Abul Jalaluddin (Finance) Columnist: Bilal Cleland (Victoria) Columnist: Manarul Islam (ACT) Columnist: Dr Daud Batchelor (QLD) Columnist: Simon Harrison (QLD) Columnist: Anne Fairbairn (NSW) Columnist: Zahid Jamil (NSW) Columnist: Shahjahan Khan (QLD) Columnist: Prof Irfan Shahid (India) Columnist: Imam Malik Mujahid (USA) Promotion: Dr Wali Bokhari Web Developer: Shadow Approved Multimedia: iMoby Productions Printers: Spotpress 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, Sakinah Ahmad, Anjum Rafiqi, Hasan Fazeel, Dr Quasim, Ismail Hossain, Hanif Bismi, Zohair Ahmad, Luqman Landy.

AMUST Contacts PO Box 111, Bonnyrigg (Sydney), NSW 2177 Australia. Email: info@amust.com.au Ph:(02) 8006 2063; Mob: 0490 813 359

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BOOMERANG

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BOOMERANG 5-7

COMMUNITY 8 - 12

AUSTRALIA 13 - 15

CENTREFOLD 16 - 17

The Year of Gambling Harm Awareness Gulhan Eryegit Yoldas There is a multi-billion dollar empire in Australia built on tears and suffering and the deaths of thousands of people, many who reside in high-ethnic, low socio-economic regions. It’s no secret that the gambling industry is strategically placing more gaming machines at venues in densely populated Melbourne’s north and western regions targeting the most vulnerable members of our community. The effects of gambling addiction are evident in the higher prevalence of family violence, crime and substance abuse in these regions. There has never before been a greater urgency for our communities to raise awareness of the gambling harm epidemic. There is no one word to describe the overwhelming emotions and reactions of people who’ve watched the eye-opening, explosive documentary Ka-Ching - Pokie Nation. On Wednesday 21 March, Hume City Council, in partnership with Connections @ Craigieburn invited their community to a screening of Ka-Ching! Pokie Nation at the Hume Global Learning Centre in Craigieburn in Melbourne’s outer north. The screening was followed by a panel discussion with guest speakers: Associate Professor Samantha Thomas from Deakin University; Julie Jensen, a Therapeutic Counsellor with Banyule Community Health and Gambler’s Help Northern and North West; Lyn Dundon, Gambling Harm Project Coordinator with the Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria; and Bill Veerman, a community educator with lived experience of problem gambling.

One point that the Ka-Ching Pokie Nation documentary highlights is that it doesn’t matter if you’re amongst the most vulnerable or the most established in our communities, gambling is a serious addiction which is now scientifically categorized in the same section as substance addictions, right up there with heroin. In the documentary, Carolyn Hirsh, former politician for ALP, describes the pokies as being “like opium dens” as she describes her long road to recovery from her gambling addiction which has resulted in her losing so much. There is an urgent need to raise awareness in our communities on the science and the

team of mathematicians and programmers that are paid to ensure pokie machines are made in a way “the house always wins” at all costs. There is now a proven direct correlation between gambling addiction and suicide, gambling addiction and family violence, substance abuse, crime, mental health problems, family breakdowns and the list goes on. (list of references below). If you’re a part of a community group, a school, a youth group, especially if you reside in a high-ethnic demographic region, invest time and resources this year to raise awareness on the topic of gambling harm. Ka-Ching Pokie Nation is one documen-

tary every Australian must watch this year for the betterment of our communities. Gulhan Eryegit Yoldas is on the advisory board for ECCV Gambling Harm project. She’s an active member of Whittlesea Interfaith Network and currently works as the Community Engagement Facilitator for Al Siraat College. Gulhan has a robust history of advocacy for Interfaith dialogue & building resilient, compassionate communities. She is passionate about empowering and developing Muslim youth as spokespeople for their communities.

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ISSUE 149 / APRIL 2018

LIFESTYLE 18 - 22

UMMAH 23 - 24

EDUCATION 25 - 27

TRAVEL 28

BUSINESS 29

SOCIAL 30 - 31

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Changing attitudes to Combatants and Civilians Bilal Cleland T S Eliot’s April in “The Wasteland,” is the cruellest month as the warmth of northern spring forces painful memories to surface. However cruel memories adhere to the month of March over three major catastrophic events. March marks the 2003 Invasion of Iraq, based on lies. It is the month of the 1915 defeat of the Allied attempt to invade Turkey in a seaborne invasion through the Gallipoli Strait, a war which ended eventually in the destruction of the Ottomans. It is also the time of the terrible Battle of Waterloo in 1815, ending the attempt by Napoleon and his cohort to establish the Napoleonic Order in Europe, resulting in the reactionary Congress of Vienna. One of the great changes in warfare we can see over the last 200 years is in the attitude towards soldiers and civilians. The American allies in 2003 expended much effort in ensuring there were as few allied casualties as possible, knowing that a high death toll, as in the Vietnam War, would cause political chaos at home. Huge demonstrations at home in the Coalition of the Willing did nothing to stop the war, but warned of the potential political cost. The millions of dead soldiers in the First World War, fought as a struggle between

empires, created the Bolshevik Revolution and the death of the Czar, the German Revolution and the removal of the Kaiser, the destruction of the Ottoman Empire and Soviets formed in the British Army and soldiers shot down in Whitehall. The latter has not been well publicised apart from the brave historians Cole and Postgate. One response after this war was to see memorials to soldiers spring up all over the British Empire and government departments established to care for the casualties and widows. A century earlier, soldiers were considered pawns to be used by the officer class. There was no campaign in 1815 to establish memorials to the fallen all over the empire. Indeed the bodies of the dead, their bones and teeth, were put to use. Barrels of bones from the battlefield were crushed for fertiliser on British farms and the healthy teeth of the young dead became a great source of dentures for the better-off. “The prospect of thousands of British, French and Prussian teeth - sitting in the mouths of recently-killed soldiers on the battlefield at Waterloo - was an attractive one for looters. There were lots of bodies in one place and above ground.” [16 June 2015 BBC News Magazine] In 1815, although civilians suffered, they were not targeted and armies were the focus of destruction. By 1915 atrocities against civilians were a major issue of propaganda on both sides, but were greeted with shock in the media and

public opinion of the time. After the mass bombings of civilians in World War II, public opinion became hardened. The massacres in Iraq and then in Syria and Libya and now in Yemen, were met with much less shock and outrage than in previous eras. As Mehdi Hasan commented about 2003; “In Iraq, the U.S. morphed from heroic liberators into brutal occupiers within a matter of weeks. In Fallujah, which would later become an ISIS stronghold, US troops opened fire on a crowd of peaceful protesters in April 2003, killing and wounding dozens of Iraqis. The shootings, the torture, the general chaos, all helped drive thousands of Iraqis from the minority Sunni community into the arms of radical groups led by brutal gangsters, such as Abu Musab al-Zarqawi. Zarqawi’s Al Qaeda in Iraq, formed in 2004 to fight U.S. troops and their local allies, was a precursor organization to … ISIS. “ [20 Jan 2018 The Intercept] We can see in these changing attitudes, growing fear of mass casualties on one’s

‘Muslims Like Us’ Insightful but Not Typical Dr Daud Batchelor The SBS TV documentary, ‘Muslims Like Us’ screened on 21 and 22 February 2018. Ten Muslims of diverse backgrounds and often diametrically opposed outlooks lived together in one Sydney house for eight days. Four were practising Muslims; the others held their own views on what it meant to be Muslim. It was a public spectacle, set up with potential adversaries that would engender tension, conflict and argument. There was, however, a genuine effort for mutual understanding. Some were well-known – Nigerian/Aboriginal ex-NRL footy star Jamal Idris, Ex-Iranian poet, Kaveh, and female boxing champion, Bianca Elmir. Others included Aisha, law graduate of Indonesian/Yugoslav parentage with two children from Perth; Anjum, niqab-wearing stay-at-home mum, married with two boys from Hobart; Afghan-born Mina with three children; Rida, a bisexual ‘sufi’; Fahad, Pakistani/Palestinian homosexual medical student; Hassan, Melbourne deputy school principal; and Husnain of Pakistani heritage. The title is a misnomer since Muslims are not just ‘like’, but are indeed as much ‘Australian’ as anybody else. Further, LBGT participants in the program at 20% do not reflect true representation amongst Muslim Australians. Even if put at 1%, most Muslims would question such a high percentage. As Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) emphasised in their statement released on 10 March 2018, the practice of homosexuality is totally forbidden for Muslims and a major sin and one who partakes is disobeying God. Given that SBS also often highlights the gay Muslim, Nur Warsame, calling himself Imam, the SBS CEO, himself gay, gives the impression that SBS is promoting homosexuality amongst Muslim Australians. This is surely not the role of a government broadcaster. Neither does this dilemma reflect well on APRIL 2018 / ISSUE 149

own side, and the lionising of our combatants, alongside vastly diminished concern for the rights of civilians and of the refugees created by these conflicts. Hence the increasing jingoism of Australian Anzac Day and the continuation of offshore detention for the victims of war. This highlights the terrible contradiction. Bilal Cleland is a keen reader, a prolific writer and a regular columnist of AMUST based in Melbourne.

Living in Solitude Fazlul Huq Resident of a safe enclosure, A force field that none can penetrate, Except at the owner’s command, Even then no guarantee of an audience! the SBS Chairman, himself a Muslim. Many who viewed the series commented that they were confused by the portrayals provided. This is unsurprising given some in the show didn’t display much knowledge about Islam. Except ‘cultural’ Muslims, all acknowledge “There is no God but Allah and Muhammad is God’s Messenger”. Having respect for Muhammad (s) and the Qur’an are also non-negotiable elements of being Muslim. Authority of the Sunnah is well-established: “they can have no Faith, until they make you (Muhammad) judge in all disputes, and find in themselves no resistance against your decisions.” (al-Qur’an 4:65) God stresses that those with knowledge are not equal to those without. (39:9) Consequently, Muslims need to follow knowledgeable Imams about what is True Islam. Commendable projects that the group undertook included following Jamal’s charity to provide the homeless lunch at Woolloomooloo Police Citizens Club, conducting Street da’wah in central Sydney, and showing hospitality to neighbours inviting them over for a BBQ. Visiting Martin Place Lindt Cafe to reflect on the 2014 Siege engendered responses that the hostage-taker was a criminal who only showed support for ISIS to camouflage wrongdoings including his wife’s murder. Actions of some members were less praiseworthy, such as visiting a pub. Once Mina mused, “Why would God say

‘No’ to music; life would be so boring.” Islam’s understandable prohibition of certain music was well-demonstrated when karaoke music was played while Fahad danced erotically. Aisha, a modest Muslimah, remarked about it, “my eyeballs are burning.” Anjum objected harshly but needn’t have worried about the ‘Sufi’ session led by Rida since participants recited well-known dhikrs contemplating God. However, any insinuation Muslims could just perform dhikr while ignoring salat (ritual prayer) is misguided. The Prophet (s) said: “First thing for which a person will be brought to account on Resurrection Day will be his salat. If it is sound, he will be successful; if it is lacking in any way, he will be doomed.” So-called ‘sufi’ practices without followers performing salat are without merit. There is a role though for orthodox Sufism whose teachings were disseminated by eminent sheikhs in an unbroken line back to Prophet Muhammad (s). Participants needed to have access to knowledgeable Imams to advise them on Islamic teachings to help resolve prickly disputes. Some may well have changed their mindsets. Dr Daud Batchelor, holds an MA in Islamic and Other Civilisations and a Diploma in Islamic Studies from the International Islamic University Malaysia, PhD from University of Malaya, MSc from the University of London. Email: daud.batchelor@gmail.com

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Expressed in a myriad of forms, An eternal disguise in camouflage, Occasionally peeping through the veil, As if playing the game of hide and seek. At times standing still without the slightest movement, At other times traveling at the lightning speed, Away from the meddling crowd, Towards a far-off place that no one can locate. Lost in labyrinth of the maze, Or confined in a chamber of the place, A prolonged wait to meet the host, That is unmoved by the presence, Granting not an audience even for a moment! “Why doesn’t he?” the visitant asks, And as he departs with a broken heart, A reply comes without a word being uttered. Associate Professor Fazlul Huq is based in Sydney and leads the Biomedical Science Cancer Research Group in the School of Medical Sciences, Sydney Medical School. He is also an accomplished poet with over 12,000 compositions in Bengali and English and has also been involved in various community projects.

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COMMUNITY

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BOOMERANG 5-7

COMMUNITY 8 - 12

AUSTRALIA 13 - 15

CENTREFOLD 16 - 17

Sydney award event. Photo courtesy of Human Appeal International - Australia

Awards and $6000 scholarships for high achievers Mehar Ahmad The 11th Year 12 Muslim Achievement Awards were held in all major cities of Australia recognising high achievement by a large cohort of the Muslim students who have received an ATAR of 90+ after the completion of their school studies at the end of year 2017. Hosted by Human Appeal Australia at gala dinner events, a total of 249 students were invited together with their parents to be presented with certificates and gifts including laptops awarded by local sponsors in recognition of their outstanding achievements. Out of 249 Australian Muslim students who obtained ATAR of 90+, 33 students achieved ATAR of 99+ and hailed from both public and private schools while a great majority of them have graduated from Muslim schools at the end of year 2017. Human Appeal Australia as part of a Leadership Alumni initiative, in partnership with local businesses and organisations have announced the establishment of six University Scholarships of $6,000 each to Year 12 Achievement Award 2018 recipients. These scholarships will provide financial assistance to students making university study more affordable. The last date to apply for the scholarship is Friday 30 March 2018. At the Sydney event held on Sunday 11 March at Himalaya Emporium in Bankstown, 116 high achievers were recognised

in the presence of their proud parents and awarded certificates and gifts by key politicians, sponsors and community leaders. The Mufti of Australia Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohammed during his address, celebrating the high achievements by such a large number of young Muslims called on the former Minister for Immigration and Border Protection, Peter Dutton to take note that many of these were the children and grandchildren of the same Lebanese immigrants who arrived during the 1970’s about whom in November 2016, Dutton said it was a mistake by the Malcolm Fraser administration to have admitted Lebanese Muslim immigrants. The awards were presented by Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohammed, Sheikh Shadi Alsulaiman, Ms Julie Owens MP, Mr Chris Hayes MP, Mr Jihad Dib MP, Mr Bashar Al-Jamal, Dr Zachariah Matthews, Mr Mustafa Omari and other officials of HAA and representative of sponsoring organisations and businesses. Similar events were held in Perth on Friday 9 March, Brisbane on Saturday 10 March, Adelaide on Saturday 17 March and Melbourne on Sunday 18 March. For the first time Year 12 Muslim Achievement Awards were held in Perth awarding nineteen students. Human Appeal Australia’s Director, Bashar Al-Jamal welcomed guests and was pleased to introduce the establishment of the new branch in Perth. Speakers at the event included Sue Ellery MLC, WA Minister for Education and Training, Abdullah Khan, Executive Principal of the Australian Islamic College in Perth, Alison Xamon MLC, Martin Prichard MLC, Imam Yahya Ibrahim, Assistant-Principal of Langford Islamic College, Dr Asrarur

Rahman Talukder, President of the IPDC, Mr Peter Rudrum, Associate Principal of Canning Vale College, Karim Elgawady, Leadership Umrah Tour 2018 participant and Raisa Anwar, an award recipient. At the Brisbane event, Branch Manager, Imam Akram Buksh welcomed guests where Ali Kadri, from the Islamic Council of Queensland was the MC. Professor Shahjahan Khan from the University of Southern Queensland spoke about significant Muslim contributions in the past and the need to replicate these achievements in the future. Other speakers included Dr Ray Barrett, Principal of the Islamic College of Brisbane, Imam Yusuf Peer, Council of Imams Queensland, Tamim Islam, award recipient and Dr Zac Matthews. Noorudeen Alsabawi, a participant of the 2018 Leadership Umrah Tour spoke about the emotional experience of distributing aid to struggling Syrian refugees in Jordan. In Adelaide, seven students were awarded where Branch Manager of Human Appeal’s Adelaide office, Ali Kadir welcomed guests. The Mayor of the City of Charles Sturt, Angela Evans spoke about the social effect of education on the community. Other speakers included the former Deputy Mayor of Adelaide and Chairman of the Council of Australia-Arab Relations, Councillor Houssam Abiad, Sheikh Mohamed El Sayid, from the Australian Islamic College Adelaide, Shi-

hab Siddiquee, founder and director of Sace Simplified, Leadership Umrah Tour 2018 participant, Shamil Jamion and award recipient Nadia Al-Daghestani. In Melbourne 90 students were awarded where Sheikh Rabih Baytie, Human Appeal’s Melbourne Branch Manager welcomed guests Other speakers included Judith Graley MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Education, Waleed Aly, The Project, Bachar Houli, sports celebrity, Richmond Football Club, Dr Abdul Rahman Ihdayhid, Monash Heart, Dr Samantha Ratnam, Leader of the Victorian Greens; Professor Akhtar Kalam, MCCA and Ramzi Elsayed, Islamic Council of Victoria. The five ceremonies held in Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide and Melbourne, were a fantastic opportunity for parents and communities to celebrate the proud achievements of these amazing 249 individuals. “Human Appeal Australia congratulates all the Year 12 students of 2017 who put in their best efforts. A special vote of thanks goes to the generous businesses and organisations that sponsored the 11th Annual Year 12 Muslim Achievement Awards of 2018,” concluded Mr Bashar Al-Jamal. See more photos on page 16 - 17.

Bayt Al Zakat recognise HSC high achievers

HPSOP is looking for volunteers (50yrs+) who speak, read and write English well, and also speak Arabic, to talk about health issues to groups of older people in Sydney Metro area. Applications close 5 June 2018. Call: Habib/ Estelle: 8836 2146 or 1800 451 488 or email: health@cpsa.org.au

Mobinah Ahmad Bayt Al Zakat - Australia recognized the achievements of 94 students who received an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) score of over 90, with 12 incredible students achieving an ATAR of over 99, at their 21st Annual Education Award Ceremony on 17 March 2018 at Orion

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Function Centre in Campsie, Sydney. In a statement, Bayt Al-Zakat said that they are aiming to encourage our Muslim Youth to achieve high results in their academic education. Bayt Al Zakat Australia is a non-profit organisation committed to promoting numerous charitable causes both nationally and internationally. ISSUE 149 / APRIL 2018

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#Ubelong: Campaign for inclusiveness Ibrahim Taha At a time when Muslim youth are often besmirched in the media, it is difficult for them to find a sense of belonging. This struggle is intensified by unhelpful comments like Australia’s Immigration Minister Peter Dutton, who suggested back in 2016, that it was a “mistake” to accept migrants of Lebanese-Muslim background. However, this does not affect Bassam Maliki, 15, who after experiencing the ugly head of Islamophobia, decided to embrace his pluralistic identity of being an Australian Muslim of Lebanese descent. A recent study from Islamic Studies Research Academy (ISRA) revealed that one in ten Muslims encountered “very high” rates of exposure to Islamophobia and racism. It is because of the prevalence of Islamophobia in society, that Bassam found the impetus to do something about it, rather than remain apathetic. A simple message about belonging, a worthwhile project to help foster a culture of welcoming and inclusivity in Australia, symbolised by a key marked in different coloured dots, to celebrate diversity. This is the #Ubelong campaign, which attempts to make other Muslim youth develop a strong sense of belonging in Australian society. For Muslims who are concerned about social justice issues, Islamophobia is only one battle. Muslims should join alliances with those fighting for other social justice causes that

Bassam Maliki. do not necessarily affect Muslims, but are in principle, just causes. This is encapsulated in the Quranic verse, “You are the best nation produced for mankind. You enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong” (3:110). Thus, the evils of racism, bigotry and xenophobia need to be opposed, irrespective of whether it is targeted toward a Muslim or an Indigenous or a refugee. Rabbi Zalman from “Together for Humanity” an interfaith organisation, has reached out to support this campaign. He finds that the essence of #Ubelong are those values and principles promoted in all religions: justice, compassion and empathy.

Bassam Maliki (centre) with Ibrahim Taha and Rabbi Zalman. As a consequence of Bassam’s efforts, who enrich and strengthen our country. he was a finalist in the 2017 Young Human What we should focus on instead, is buildRights Award, a huge milestone for what ap- ing a strong sense of belonging in order to pears to be a promising future for a descend- curb the feeling of isolation and disenfranant of Lebanese migrants. chisement that many youth face in today’s Australian Muslim youth encounter many society, a task now undertaken by a 15 year challenges, therefore it is paramount that old. there exists a strong sense of belonging, You can support Bassam’s cause by buywhich is vital to the success of a vibrant, ing a key badge for $5 and following the multicultural Australia. campaign on twitter or facebook @UBeNot only is Bassam a proud Australian, long_here but the embrace of his pluralistic identity is exemplary of the fact that it was never a Ibrahim Taha is a young, first year student “mistake” to welcome Bassam’s grandpar- at Sydney University. Ibrahim is involved in ents who migrated to Australia, nor is it ever many organisations and has keen interest in a “mistake” to welcome new Australians politics, religion and social issues.

Funding restored for Islamic School of Canberra

Staff and parents of the Islamic School of Canberra. Manarul Islam The Federal Government has effectively reinstated the Commonwealth funding of the Islamic School of Canberra by accepting the Islamic Practice and Dawah Circle (IPDC) as the Approved Authority for the school, ending a long and controversial link with the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC). For over a year, the school has been in on the cusp of closure after the Federal Government announced they will be ceasing funding for the school primarily due to governance issues. A new Board, headed by Azra Khan and consisting solely of Canberra Muslim community members then sought to address those issues ultimately leading to the transfer of the land and the school to the IPDC late last year. Since then the school has worked tireless to demonstrate to the government that it had resolved the outstanding issues. Remarkably, in that period it retained most of its dedicated teachers and increased the student numbers. The school released a statement by DaAPRIL 2018 / ISSUE 149

vid Johns, Principal, and Dr Rafiqul Islam, Chair of the School Board: “This has been a long and involved process over many months and the reinstating of funding now means that we are well prepared to continue to grow our school into the future. A guarantee of funding means that we can continue to invest in quality teaching and learning practices, develop our school facilities and develop a strategic plan that involves increasing year levels, student numbers and school capital works.” Dr Majharul Talukder, Board Secretary, thanked the community and asked them to continue to pray for the school’s success and support it in any way they can. The School Board thanked the parents, students and staff for their patience, the previous Board members for their hard work and the Association of Independent Schools for their support. They also thanked the Department of Education and the ACT Education Directorate who have worked closely with the school in seeking the reinstatement of funding. An event to share information with the school community and show gratitude is planned in April 2018 at the school. WWW.AMUST.COM.AU

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Walk with the Mayor on International Women’s Day Gulhan Eryegit Yoldas The City of Whittlesea, Victoria organised the Walk with the Mayor Program on International Women’s Day on Thursday 8 March 2018 that was joined by Al Siraat College students. Walk with the Mayor Program was combined with two more events, a photo exhibition of women in our community at the Great Hall in the City of Whittlesea and a high tea at the Parliament House in celebration of Women’s day. Prior to both events the mayor took the students around the council and showed them the various departments and the roles and responsibilities of each area which all come together to run the council. Our first two students, Aisha from year 10 and Medina from year 11, were very excited to be a part of this program. It gave them

the opportunity to celebrate International Women’s Day together with our city’s Mayor Kris Pavlidis at two major events. Mayor Kris is very passionate about gender equality and a big advocate for seeing greater gender balance, especially in highend decision-making positions, as well as closing the gap in pay. She is also passionate about inspiring young people to realise the incredible opportunities available to them. Aisha and Medina got the opportunity to ask the mayor plenty of questions about her role and moving forward will be developing a presentation about their experience. Al Siraat College appreciated the opportunity to be a part of this important program that Mayor Kris Pavlidis has pioneered and looks forward to inspiring their students and developing their skills as spokespeople for our communities.

International Women’s Day Journey from Syria to Australia

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From left: Gulhan, Aisha, Mayor Kris Pavlidis and Medina.

Generosity at Ghouta Fundraising Dinner Alsu Kurlow

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Hadeel Aldairy (centre) with her mother and Sharda Jogia. gave inspiring speeches, telling about the Najia Khalil opportunities and progress for CALD and refugee women, and also for enabling womThursday 8 March this year marked the en in small business. The highlight of the event was the story International Women’s Day 2018 with the theme ‘Press for Progress’, calling for from Hadeel Aldairy, a Bilingual Community Educator explained about her experience gender parity. Many events were held around Australia, since arriving in Australia. Having landed in Sydney from Damascus, and worldwide, and one such event closer to home was the one held at Liverpool Hospi- Syria, after spending two years in Lebanon, tal on Thursday 8 March 2018 in partnership she reflected upon how the tragedy of her with Liverpool Women’s Health Centre, younger brother being killed changed her Western Sydney MRC, Liverpool Council life and her family’s life forever. She came to Australia as a refugee on a and NSW Refugee Health Service. Organised and attended by women only, humanitarian visa, and after becoming a the MC at the event Sharda Jogia started volunteer was finally able to get a great opwith a chant to empower the women sitting portunity to work as a Bilingual Community in the Thomas and Rachael Moore Educa- Educator in the health services and currently tion Centre before she called upon Aunty as a case manager at the Settlement Service Norma Shelley OAM to officiate with the International. Welcome to Country. The official welcome was given by Ms Najia Khalil is the Trustee of the IslamLynda Johnston, Community and Consumer ic Foundation for Education and Welfare Participation Manager while the two key- (IFEW) and is based in Sydney. note speakers, Carmen Lazar, and Pat Hall

Seniors Day Out Tuesday 10 April, 2018 10:30 AM - 1:30 PM NSW MWA Australia 47 Wangee Rd, Lakemba Ph: 9750 6916

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The Ghouta Fundraising Dinner was held on Sunday 18th March 2018, at Himalaya Emporium Function Centre/ Bankstown organised by Human Appeal Australia. With nearly 180 generous guests, the night was fabulously successful where the donations collected reached $120,000 that will be dedicated to provide relief to the sufferings of men, women and children of Ghouta, a suburb of Damascus in Syria that has been under attack. At a short note, the community gathered to provide help and support where community leaders, businesses, and professionals stood together for those suffering in Syria. The auction contributed to overall proceeds of the collection. The fundraising dinner was part of the call by Human Appeal Australia’s Urgent Emergency Campaign dedicated to Ghouta in

National Muslim Youth Summit Saturday 14 April, 2018 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM NSW Novotel Hotel Parramatta, 350 Church St, Parramatta www.isra.org.au/national-muslimyouth-summit

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Syria in order to provide people with food, baby’s milk, medical supplies and heating/ cooking coal. Human Appeal Australia promised to stay on the road to goodness providing the much-needed lifesaving relief to needy around all over the globe. Alsu Kurlow is the Community Events and Children & Youth Coordinator of Human Appeal Australia.

10th Annual Jashne Buzurg Sunday 15 April, 2018 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM NSW Bowman Hall, 35 Campbell St, Blacktown Ph: 0468 409 786

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House of Sakinah: 5 year celebration!

Dr Derya Iner. Najia Khalil House of Sakinah Women Support Centre, located in Mt Druitt, Western Sydney celebrated the 5th anniversary, since its establishment, on Sunday 18 March 2018 marking its achievements in providing services to many families whose lives have been changed. The program was started by the MC Ms Angela Rodgers who welcomed the guests and called upon Ms Aisha Shafqat to do the Qur’an recitation of Surah Ar-Rahman. This was followed by a talk by Dr Derya

Iner on the centrality of women in facing and coping with Islamophobia. She made the women aware of the existence and extent of Islamophobia, and the procedure and steps in dealing with any incidents. Dr Mehreen Faruqi MLC, NSW Greens MP applauded the efforts of the volunteers of House of Sakinah for their efforts towards support for vulnerable women in the community. Presentation of the achievements and highlights of cases were given by Ms Firdousi Obeidullah, Coordinator of House of Sakinah. She also showed a case study through a video presentation of one of the

clients who have been greatly helped by the Centre. The MC welcomed Julia Finn, MP for Parramatta who also was amazed by the work that House of Sakinah was doing and encouraged that this work should continue in the years ahead. Mrs Mehar Ahmad, a school teacher and co-founder of Islamic Foundation for Education & Welfare (IFEW) tales on “Living Islam at Home’. She gave tips on best practice in maintaining good relationship within the household better communication and understanding in order to live in peace at home.

The Cofounder/Director of Dar Al Ihsan, Ms Anisa Khan, well known for speaking as a Niqabi, talked about empowering women and emphasized the importance of improving their inner state before being able to have an impact upon their family and the community. The program ended with the cake-cutting ceremony and recognition of volunteers rendering their services to the House of Sakinah and a vote of thanks to all attendees who bought tickets to support the event marking the celebrations.

Islamic perspectives on Jesus An exciting lecture at the Islamic Museum of Australia Faseeha Hashmi On Sunday 11 March, international guest lecturer Professor Zeki Saritoprak and Ms Saara Sabbagh presented an exciting lecture on ‘Jesus in Islam’ which drew a packed crowd to the Islamic Museum of Australia in Melbourne. The collaborative effort of Islamic Sciences & Research Academy Australia (ISRA) and Benevolence sought to explore the Islamic perspective of the penultimate messenger of God. Beginning with surah Maryam, the lecture opened with the recitation of the holy Quran. The esteemed Professor in Islamic theology then opened the floor with a quiz challenging the audience on what they already knew of the Prophet Jesus’s (a) life. Referred to most frequently, as the ‘son of Mary or Maryum’ in the Quran, the Professor explained that the Prophet Jesus (a) came to reaffirm the message that came before him to “worship only one God.” Empathising that the Islam too, recognises the second coming of Jesus similar to the Christian tradition, they highlighted the distinction made by it regarding his status as a

Professor Zeki Saritoprak.

Ms Saara Sabbagh.

messenger. Islamic literature has diverse perspectives on how exactly the second coming will occur as a sign of the day of judgement. Some take a literal perspective, that he will simply “descend from the sky” in a very noticeable and pronounced manner, whilst others have interpreted it in a more subtle manner. He highlighted the special emphasis of Prophet Noah, Moses, Abraham, Jesus and Muhammed (s) within Islam, “being the highest of all human beings”. Recognising the fulfilment of God’s message provides Muslims with an important appreciation and understanding to bring to interfaith discussions, the professor said.

“It is important for us, to find common ground with the people of the book”. He also noted the Quran’s emphasis on the significance of women, praising the strength of character and purity of Mary (or Bibi Maryum). Ms Saara Sabbagh, founder of Benevolence, also emphasised how both Jesus and Mary are “inseparable in the Quran.” Speaking with her usually high-spirited charm she drew parallels between the life of Mary and various other prophets. There are arguments to say that she could be placed in the same ranking or station to that of prophethood. However, fundamental to this argument is

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Pre-Ramadan Mini Market (Ladies Only)

Tue 17 - Sat 21 April, 2018 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM 5 Cities: Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney

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Saturday 28 April, 2018 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM Woodstock Community Centre 22 Church Street, Burwood

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Monday 16 April, 2018 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Taj Agra 35 Woolley St, Dickson

Super Muslim Comedy Tour WA

Faseeha Hashmi holds a Master of International Relations from the University of Melbourne, with an interest in politics and human security.

CALENDAR

Islamophobia: Myth or Reality

the challenging purification processes which Mary underwent over the course of her life. “Today, we are living in a time of gender-neutral world where discourse has transformed to become more gender neutral. Islam does not recognise this concept,” said Ms Sabbagh. Noting the renowned scholar Sheikh Hamza Yusuf’s perspective on this issue, she highlighted the focus and attention placed on women within the Islamic tradition. She explains, that some women in Islam were mothers, but not all of them. Instead, Islam understands that women, like men, are complex and multifaceted. “Aisha was a woman that fought on the battlefield. Therefore, there is no archetype for women in Islam.” Ultimately, the greatest lesson which is highlighted from the life of both Mary and Jesus (a) is that they both underwent a spiritual journey where the devotion to God was tested. This firmness in faith is a noteworthy lesson for all human beings. “We too should aim to purify our souls, because only then, can we bring this light to our community,” she concluded.

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Shaza wins NSW Harvey Norman Award Aisha Mohsin Every year, the NSW Women of the Year Awards bring out inspiring and talented women from all industries, communities, backgrounds, and ages to honour local leaders for their outstanding contribution and to recognize their commitment to improve the lives of women and girls in the so-

ciety by supporting basic rights and equal opportunities. The event this year, organized in Sydney on the morning of International Women’s Day, Thursday 8 March, was no exception. Over 400 guests, including Members of Parliament, attended the ceremony which was presided by MC Deborah Knight. Now in its seventh year, this event continued to inspire, educate, and empower young women thus preparing them for a future of success. Having walked an extraordinarily success-

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ful path despite all odds, the following inspirational women with their leadership skills and no-excuse mindset, have each made an indelible contribution to our community. Professor Hala Zreiqat (NSW Premier’s Woman of the Year), Julie Shelley (NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year), Dr Raji Ambikairajah (Community Hero), Shaza Rifi (Harvey Norman Young Woman of the Year), Juliet Duffy (Rex Airlines Regional Woman of the Year), Kristy Chong (NSW Business Woman of the Year), Norma Ingram (First Stare Super Lifetime Achievement). Encouragingly, Shaza Rifi, an Australian Muslim of Lebanese descent and President of the Muslim Women Association (MWA), has made major strides in addressing the epidemic of domestic and family violence across Australia. Shaza is dedicated to building better communities, facilitating social enterprise. She is guiding health, well being and capacity-building portfolios to empower young people to provide Muslim women in Australia the opportunity to be a part of and contribute to Australia’s diverse community. Shaza graduated in Civil Engineering in 2013. As a young girl and teenager, she attended leadership camps run by the MWA. It was here she developed a keen sense of social justice, the importance of social cohesion and participation and the desire to empower women. These days, in her role as President of MWA, she is leading the improvement of services and support for women facing domestic and family violence. The 2018 NSW Women of the Year Awards, sponsored by First State Super, were held in the presence of the Governor General, David Hurley AC DSC (Ret’d), Governor of New South Wales and Mrs Hurley, the NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian MP, Minister for Women, Tanya Davies and Minister for Abo-

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AUSTRALIA Listening to both sides: Legal ethics and life lesson LIFESTYLE 18 - 22

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Minh Ai Nguyen A panel discussion on the topic ‘Teaching Ethics to Future Lawyers’ was held on Thursday 15 March at the Affinity Intercultural Foundation, Sydney launching its new Law Panel Discussion series that included panellists Professor Joellen Riley, Dean of the University of Sydney’s Law School and Professor Michael Adams, Professor of Corporate Law and Governance and former Law Dean of Western Sydney University. The panel discussion was facilitated by Professor Mary Crock from the University of Sydney’s Law School where after a short speech from each panellist, the discussion was opened up to the audience for a short and engaging Q&A session. Professor Adams began the discussion by talking about ethics as a complex area and

Professor Joellen Riley. bringing in the works of Aristotle as a point of reference.

Mobinah Ahmad, Managing Editor, AMUST with Professor Joellen Riley.

Professor Michael Adams. He also discussed how technology has in- ‘others’,” she said. fluenced what is acceptable within the legal Professor Crock ended her talk with an framework and emphasised the need to dis- important piece of advice: “listening to both tinguish between personal and professional sides is a life lesson, not just a legal skill”. ethics. Affinity’s next Law Panel Discussion Professor Riley discussed the ways in event will be held on Thursday 12 July at which practicing lawyers and academics 12:00pm to 1:30pm, with panellists Profesare responsible for grounding future law- sor Tania Sourdin and Professor Michael yers with a solid foundation for their legal Quinlan, Dean of Law from The University careers. of Newcastle and The University of Notre “Whether we are aware or not, those who Dame respectively. are teaching lawyers about the law are alThe panel will be discussing Diversity ways teaching an ethical framework,” said and the Australian Law School. Professor Professor Riley. Mary Crock will be returning as facilitator. “One of the things lawyers teach their stu- For more information, please visit www.afdents is to suspend judgement until evidence finity.org.au. is assessed, as well as hearing the other side, removing ourselves as decision-maker & Minh Ai Nguyen has a Bachelor of Arts in acting without prejudice,” she further added. English Literature and International Com“The truth is our ultimate goal – open and parative Literature from the University of rational inquiry can lead to this goal. We Sydney. She has worked in communications need to encourage future lawyers and peo- within the start-up sector and the education ple in general, to listen to the other side, re- industry. She is currently an Executive Asfrain from jumping to conclusions and think sistant at Affinity Intercultural Foundation from the perspective of the ‘other’, or many based in Sydney.

Australia-Indonesia multi-faith youth meeting Ibrahim Taha For the first time, Australia hosted an ASEAN Summit, with leaders from the Southeast Asian countries landing in Sydney over the weekend 17-18 March 2018 to strengthen economic and political ties in the region. This intergovernmental organisation, ASEAN, offers significant economic and social benefits that will ensure prosperity in the long run. In order to achieve this, social and cultural understanding is paramount, which is the reasoning behind the Multi-Faith youth meeting that took place in Sydney with 26 young Indonesian and Australian participants from diverse faiths. Australia’s Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull along with Indonesia’s President Joko Widodo and the Foreign Ministers of both countries greeted the young participants and spoke of the importance of sharing mutual understanding and respect. “The great success of Australia as a multicultural nation is because we are united by political values, freedom, equality of men and women and mutual respect,” said Malcolm Turnbull. He expressed how President Widodo is one of the most important leaders in the world, as Indonesia proves, “that democracy, Islam, moderation and respect are compatible.” Indonesia’s President had some remarks to say, calling upon the youth in attendance to embody this mutual respect as the future leaders of the country and the world. The youth meeting encouraged deeper friendship and fraternity with our Indonesian counterparts who are our close and crucial neighbour. APRIL 2018 / ISSUE 149

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AUSTRALIA The Sultan and the Saint ‘Take It To The Streets’ NEWS 1-4

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An ancient story for modern times Festival brings youth together AMUST Media

Bluestar Director Mohammed Aksu introduces the screening. Photo by Seyfullah Erdogan. Manarul Islam To coincide with Harmony Day, Bluestar Intercultural Centre together with the Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture co-hosted a screening of the film The Sultan and The Saint on Wednesday 21 March 2018 at the centre’s Chapel in Barton, Canberra. The documentary tells of the often relegated story from history. It is the story of Francis of Assisi and the Sultan of Egypt, and their meeting on a bloody battlefield during the period of Christian-Muslim conflict known as the Crusades. The focus is when Francis, who after his death became a saint one of the most venerated religious figures in history, reached across to the enemy and befriended the Sultan of Egypt, Al-Kamil, nephew of the renowned Salahuddin. In the documentary, we learn that Francis was fundamentally changed by this en-

counter and what he learnt from his Muslim friend in those few days reflected in his subsequent writings. In the film we also learn of the mercy the Sultan showed to the Crusaders when they were bogged down in the floodplains, choosing to provide them with food and safe passage back rather than kill them. Muhammed Aksu, Director at Bluestar, introduced the film and then after the screening the patrons were treated to some Mediterranean food before the audience shared their observations about the film. Quite a number of attendees remarked about the relevance of this encounter to modern challenges. To learn more about the film, which is rated 8/10 on IMDB, visit the website: www.sultanandthesaintfilm.com/ To find out about this and other Bluestar activities, visit: https://www.facebook.com/ bluestar.intercultural/

On Saturday 24 March 2018, Youth Off The Streets held the Take It To The Streets festival at the Amphitheatre in Wiley Park, Sydney showcasing diverse cultural performances, foods, games and entertainment. The festival provided the community and local young people with a chance to connect with community services and have fun while doing it. The event highlighted the positive aspect of bringing community together and creating a sense of social belonging. Father Chris Riley believes that the event was a great success in bringing the Canterbury Bankstown community together. “I am very proud of my all Muslim team in Bankstown and I think they have developed a great event,” he says. “Youth Off The Streets is always looking for new ways to bring the communities we work in closer together and this event provided the opportunity to do so. We have great connections in this area and we hope all attendees enjoyed the day.” There were many highlights on the day. Local performers from different cultures graced the stage and delivered some wonderful performances. The silent disco was a fan favourite, with

many young people dancing with headphones on. A games van provided some consoles and video games for young people and a lot of the kids enjoyed laser tag. This was the first Take It To The Streets festival and Youth Off The Streets are looking to run more in the future. The funding for the festival was provided by the NSW Government, with support from the City of Canterbury Bankstown. Youth Off The Streets is about helping young people to discover greatness within, by engaging, supporting and providing opportunities to encourage and facilitate positive life choices. Youth Off The Streets is a non-denominational community organisation working for disadvantaged young people who may be homeless, drug dependent and/or recovering from abuse. They supports young people as they work to turn their lives around and overcome immense personal trauma such as neglect, physical, psychological and/or emotional abuse. Since opening in 1991, Youth Off The Streets has grown from a single food van delivering meals to young homeless people on the streets of Kings Cross to a major youth specific agency offering a full continuum of care through delivery of a wide range of services.

Manarul Islam is an IT professional, community worker and AMUST correspondent based in Canberra.

Advocacy for legal support for refugees Philip Feinstein A very special meeting in support of refugees took place on Thursday 22 February at the Marrickville Town Hall organised by The Refugee Advice & Casework Service (RACS). The speakers addressed around 200 refugee supporters about their serious quandary: In NSW there are 1,100 refugees seeking legal advice and RACS can only help 100 of them. These men, women and children need critical legal support to prepare for interviews with the Department of Home Affairs. These interviews will decide whether they can remain in Australia or risk being returned to danger. This special event commenced with MC Charles Firth, comedian, writer, and filmmaker, opening the meeting and reminding us of the importance of the occasion. Then on the stage came The Choir of Love - a Sydney based community choir with members from Assyrian, Chaldean and Syriac Iraqi backgrounds. They comprise Iraqi refugee members and recently performed at the Sacred Music Festival in Parramatta. Darcy Byrne, Mayor of the Inner West Council, then welcomed everyone, reaffirming the council’s ongoing support of RACS. In thanking everyone for coming, Tanya Jackson-Vaughan, RACS Executive Director said, “We have a goal and we have a vi-

Three-time Walkley award winning Guardian journalist Ben Doherty spoke about his work reporting on challenges facing refugees and what motivates him to focus on this issue. sion. We should band together as a commuNow she is a writer, public speaker, texnity to help those who really need support.” tile designer, visual performing artist, and She pointed out that the Government had UNHCR spokesperson working with Settle indicated a deadline for all interviews and Services International. why this work is really urgent. Then came Ben Doherty, reporter for “We have until the end of March to raise Guardian Australia and formerly the Sydthe funds to make a life-changing difference ney Morning Herald. Three-time Walkley to people’s lives - we are their last hope,” Award winner for his foreign and immigrashe warned. tion reporting, Ben spoke of the importance “Refugees can make a big difference to of the work that is done by RACS and how Australia” stated Yarrie Bangura who came the public can assist. here as a refugee thirteen years ago, speakSarah Dale, Principal Solicitor of RACS, ing no English and fleeing persecution in began by looking back at her work before Sierra Leone. RACS.

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“After years of working with this community it became apparent that if I wanted to make a difference, if I wanted to really assist – the plaguing issue is and would always be – the golden ticket, the keys to the door, the route to safety, the visa,” she said. “For the people we serve, a visa means life. It means safety, it means stability,” she further added. Arash Bordbar, 24 year-old former refugee from Iran, is studying a Bachelor of Engineering Honours at the Western Sydney University. In December 2016 he was awarded the Young Australian Human Rights Medal by Australia Human Rights Commission. Arash pointed to his new project called Future Focused where he helps young people. “Australia is certainly the land of opportunity,” he said. A very exciting evening concluded with more music from The Choir of Love before the final call for funding for RACS. “It is very important for us to remember that we are all in the same team of helping refugees,” Tanya Jackson-Vaughan said. “These people are in a desperate situation and it is us who can make a difference,” she concluded. Readers of the Australasian Muslim Times can also lend their support by donating to RACS on https://www.racs.org.au/ Philip Feinstein is a Sydney based writer, musician and activist working for MUSIC FOR REFUGEES www.musicforrefugees.org

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Inconsonance of free trade agreements with economic theory FINANCE Dr Abul Jalaluddin The contemporary free trade agreements including recently resurrected Trans-Pacific Partnership (TTP) are subject to multiple protectionist clauses or special deals which impede competition based comparative advantages and hence, in disagreements with economic theory. No wonder why these free trade agreements do not generate reasonably equal economic benefits for all partnering countries. Economists’ advocacy on “free trade agreement” is premised on the Theory of Comparative Advantage discovered by David Ricardo, a British economist, in 1815. As we all benefit from specialising in an occupation we are good at or trained in, similarly exchanging goods and services with people of other specialities in other countries, we can reap further gains from trade by extending specialisation in our country and exchanging with producers/consumers beyond our borders in other countries. Expected benefits of international free trade are purely based on comparative specialisation which would be impaired if the agreement is highly flawed with politically compromised deals between selected coun-

tries. Free trade will create relative winners and losers in the international markets. Fair agreements will compensate losers by relative winners and reduce barriers to trade as well as protectionism. Modern free trade agreements are more aligned to issues such as regulatory standards, health and safety rules, investment, banking and finance, intellectual property, labour and environment than measures which would facilitate a freer trading ecosystem. International free trade agreements in the contemporary times produce economic consequences that are far more ambiguous than what should be the purported benefits. This is mainly due to the following protectionist features of these agreements: 1. Intellectual property such as patents, copyrights and trademarks are legally protected from copying by other nations which as monopoly restrictions hugely benefit rich countries against poor countries. The US happens to be a colossal exporter of intellectual property in the forms of software, hardware, pharmaceuticals, music and movies. Profits arising from these enterprises are protected for US corporations through intellectual property rules. 2. Restrictions on cross-border capital flows. The US with world-dominating financial markets profoundly pushes for

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unrestricted capital inflows and outflows. The developing nations have less ability to manage cross-border capital flows and often experience net outflows or lack of inflows of scarce financial resources to finance development initiatives. 3. Protection from domestic laws and policies in relation to profit-making by multinationals. These are vaguely termed as investor-state dispute settlement procedures allowing multinationals to sue host governments in special arbitration tribunals and seek damages for regulatory, tax and other policy changes merely because those changes reduced their profits. Hence, taxpayers would be liable to make up any potential reduction in profits caused by domestic measures which might be necessary for the well-being of the domestic population. 4. Harmonisation of regulations such as

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protection of the environment, working conditions, food, health, safety and so on. This harmonisation process is often skewed producing economic benefits for rich partners against the poor partners and at times could be excessive and/or protectionist. In the current settings, who mostly benefit from international free trade agreements? Multinational companies, international banks, pharmaceutical corporations and industry groups such as farm lobbyists. Rather than achieving a redistributive justice, the outcome is a redistribution of wealth from the poor to the rich under the guise of the free trade and investments. Dr Abul Jalaluddin is an Islamic Finance expert, taxation advisor and a regular columnist for AMUST. He is based in Sydney.

Staying relevant through continual disruption Faseeha Hashmi How do successful careers get built? You know, the ones you would imagine yourself jumping out of bed for. Well, if you ask Gavin Smith, President of Bosch Australia, you might think it’s not as difficult as you’d imagine. That’s because Gavin’s down-to-earth, light-hearted, light-humoured demeanor would make you question why you have not yet taken your career’s steering wheel in your own hands. His secret ingredient: hard work. Speaking to a room full of enthused young professionals on Tuesday 27 February at Mercer building in Docklands, Melbourne at the invitation of the Crescent Institute, Gavin spoke about ‘How to stay relevant through continual disruption?’ and answered this question by describing his own life as a series of “disruptions”. Moving from place to place, he battled with his introverted character and studies, taking 7 years to complete his University degree. Gavin joined the German electronics company Bosch in 1990 and started from the bottom from where he worked himself up the chain of leadership by making the most of the opportunities around him. He then traveled to Germany where he encountered major challenges with his language and skill set. Yet, through perseverance, he eventually adapted to his environ-

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ment learning how to communicate with his team. Observing a lack of creative thinking within the company, he also stepped up and informed others where he felt improvements could be made. Today, he stands firm that innovative leadership is a necessary component of success within the digital revolution we are in. Automation is changing the face of our job market. This can certainly be seen across the nation as NAB begins axing jobs. But his advice more generally, to young people is to be prepared by looking ahead. Yet, not everyone is thinking critically about preparing for the future. American President Donald Trump has recently announced sweeping tariffs on steel and aluminum imports in order to appeal to the lost rust-belt jobs of American midwest. His efforts however, appeal to a bygone era. These issues have also been seen in Australia as our manufacturing industry has experienced the same shocks. Yet, rather than seeking to regain lost jobs, redirecting advance manufacturing towards transferable industry skills such as clean energy will upgrade a population’s employability over the long-term. The famous car manufacturer and businessman Henry Fords once said “Failure is simply an opportunity to begin again, this time, more intelligently.” Therefore, we must not linger on the past, but instead keep moving forward.

Gavin Smith, President of Bosch Australia. Repeating the wisdom of Ben Horow- to be interpreted and analysed”. itz, founder of Venture Capital company The jobs of the future will transform the A16Z, exclaims Gavin “Software will eat value of the work we do; as we move away the world”. from mundane tasks and instead utilise our “But don’t be frightened. You can’t stop creativity and analytical skills. This will in progress. Instead, you need to adapt and be- turn, change the way we live our lives and come agile because all this software needs allow us greater leisure time. “The industrial revolution brought challenges but also brought opportunities. So too, are the challenges of today. In order for us to make the most of these developments, we must up-skill ourselves, and be prepared to think ahead”, he advises. He suggested that to make the most of your career, you need to be prepared to “say yes” as you never know what opportunities might come by creating a networking ripple. The most important step to build your professional presence and profile, he says, is done by getting out of your comfort-zone and being open to meeting new people. This, he says, is done just by showing up and it all starts – by introducing yourself.

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Multicultural Leaders bring hom AMUST

Continued from page 1 Bilal El-Hayek is a youth coordinator at the PCYC Bankstown and Bassam Maaliki is a Homebush Boys High School student who founded the social change campaign #UBelong. Shireen Taweel is an emerging artist based in Western Sydney who explores Muslim heritage, tradition and community through her art. Bilal El-Hayek was recognised for his efforts in delivering much-needed programs for the community. His ‘Bankstown Connect’ Family Program assists newly arrived families, as well as others who experience economic hardships. He also developed the year-long leadership program, “Blue Crescent”, which sees predominantly Muslim male youth, actively engaged in the community. “I am humbled and proud to be awarded the Stephan Kerkyasharian AO Harmony Medal at last night’s Premier’s Harmony Dinner. I would like to thank my family, for their understanding in allowing me to become involved in supporting and working within an extended family, which is the Canterbury-Bankstown community. To PCYC and those that believe in what we do, thank you for your support and belief in what is being achieved, this would not be possible without your support. And to the team I have had the privilege and honour of being a part of more than 10 years, this is our medal!” said Bilal. Shireen Taweel, the Western Sydney based artist, fuses her Lebanese heritage, tradition, faith, and community cross-cultural experiences, into her artwork. Using a medium between jewellery, sculpture, and architecture, her techniques see traditional copper-smithing take on a contemporary

context. “As an artist, my practice explores the cross-cultural experiences that we have especially in Western Sydney. For me, the mosque in Australia is really important to explore the ideas of cross-cultural exchange and how these sacred spaces in our communities are spaces where many different ideas and values are shared,” Ms Taweel said. Bassam Maaliki, founder of social change campaign, #UBelong, bagged a laurel too by winning the Youth Medal. The 14 year old student of Homebush Bay High School is a member of the NSW Junior Parliament, was a key speaker at the SSI Youth Welcome Dinner, and the FECCA Conference of 2017. Bassam’s campaign set out to encourage a sense of inclusivity and multicultural harmony around the country. He currently runs several local activities which share the message of belonging, and solidarity in the community.

Councillor Bilal El-Hayek with Stephan Kerkyasharian AO Harmony Medal, Bassam

Muslim Achievement Awards 2018 by Human Appeal Australia The 11th Year 12 Muslim Achievement Awards were held in all major cities of Australia recognising high achievement by a large cohort of the Muslim students who have received an ATAR of 90+ after the completion of their school studies at the end of year 2017. The five ceremonies held in Perth on Friday 9 March 2018, Brisbane on Saturday 10 March 2018, Sydney on Sunday 11 March 2018, Adelaide on Saturday 17 March 2018 and Melbourne on Sunday 18 March 2018, were a fantastic opportunity for parents and communities to celebrate the proud achievements of these amazing 249 individuals. “Human Appeal Australia congratulates all the Year 12 students of 2017 who put in their best efforts. A special vote of thanks goes to the generous businesses and organisations that sponsored the 11th Annual Year 12 Muslim Achievement Awards of 2018,” concluded Mr Bashar Al-Jamal.

Brisbane event. Photo courtesy of Human Appeal International - Australia.

Melbourne event. Photo courtesy of H

Perth event. Photo courtesy of Human Appeal International - Australia.

Melbourne event. Photo courtesy of H

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me Premier’s Harmony Medals

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The Premier of NSW held a private briefing for Multicultural Media.

m Maaliki with the Youth Medal and Shireen Taweel with the Arts & Culture Medal.

The Premier’s Harmony Day Multicultural Leaders with their Medals.

Human Appeal International - Australia.

Adelaide event. Photo courtesy of Human Appeal International - Australia.

Human Appeal International - Australia.

Melbourne event. Photo courtesy of Human Appeal International - Australia.

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Assmaah kicking goals for social equality Zaynab Gul Young Australian Muslim Assmaah Helal is kicking gender stereotypes and discrimination out of the window as she advocates social change and equality through her love for football. “I have been leading, advocating & driving sport for social change initiatives since 2009 in Australia and Asia. My years of experience working with young people, refugees and women in a small, resource-limited organisation has enabled me to be creative and strategic,” the 30 year old Sydneysider said. From a young age, Assmaah developed a passion for football, owing to her family bonding over late-night World Cup matches and her Egyptian father’s persistence to get her and her brothers actively engaged in community sports clubs. Assmaah now works with the non-profit organisation Football United to give young, newly arrived migrants an entry into the game by providing resources to participate and develop leadership and coaching skills. “As the Operations program manager, I am responsible for leadership, management and supervision of all aspects of program activities for Football United and Creating Chances and the lead author of the Creating Chances social enterprise a n d youth d e vel-

opment through sport programs,” she said. In 2014, Assmaah, with Football United, attended the Football for Hope festival in Brazil during the FIFA World Cup. There, she was fronted by many locals amused by her religious background. “No access to different communities can lead to misconceptions, and sometimes those misconceptions can lead to hatred, confusion or even fear – Australia is a diverse country, a rich tapestry of countries, and sport, when it is done right, can connect communities and provide endless opportunities to meet people different to you.” Assmaah was nominated by Her Royal Highness Princess Mary of Denmark to participate as a member in the 2017 SDG 5 Dream Team, representing gender equality at the Global Goals World Cup in New York. “I’ve learnt to choose ‘courage over comfort’. In order for me to grow and better myself, I need to get out of my comfort zone, try new things, be willing to make mistakes and learn from them quickly, then try again.” Assmaah will be heading to Jordan later this year to play in the lowest record female football match in the Dead Sea with the Equal Playing Field Initiative. Zaynab Gul is a university student studying Law and Media at UNSW.

Who is the Iron Lady, Muniba Mazari? Faseeha Hashmi

Have you ever heard the saying “When life throws you lemons, make lemonade”? Well, it might certainly be one of the most over-quoted statements of all time. Surely, we might know what it means, many of us work exceptionally hard when faced with adversity, but not everyone chooses to solemnly live by these words when they are pushed to extremes. Muniba Mazari on the other hand; might just be one of those extremely exceptional people. When the world first heard Muniba Mazari, speak on YouTube, you might have probably heard a pin drop silence of the audience holding their breath. The pain of her experiences was audible in her voice, sending shivers down our spines. At the age of 21, at the very prime of her life, Muniba experienced a tragic car accident that paralysed her lower

limbs. Told by her doctors that she would never bear a child, she found herself at her wit’s end. She describes her pain, “I was devastated. I started to question my existence, why am I even alive?” Yet, in her despair whilst injured she found strength in pursuing her greatest passion, painting. “My very first painting was on my deathbed”, she exclaimed. Today Muniba is a renowned international motivational speaker, TV anchor, artist. Her inspirational strength of character and determination has earned her the laurel of Pakistan’s first female goodwill ambassador for the United Nations. Exemplifying how the impossible can be overcome, she found her own way to accomplish numerous goals which she set out to achieve, despite her obstacles. Today, she is a proud mother of an adopted son. Her inspiring strength and determination have made her a world-renowned role model being recognise as one of BBC’s “100 Most Inspirational Women in 2015”, and featured in Forbes ’30 under 30’, Muniba Mazari is certainly a

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powerhouse of inspiration! Indeed, there may come a time in our lives where the difficulties can overshadow all of our future hopes. However, Muniba says, “This life is a test and trial, and tests are never supposed to be easy.” “I decided to fight my fears”, she cried, “because real happiness lies in gratitude.” So what does it take to make the best lemonade you’ve ever tasted? I propose, it is the freedom to learn from inspiring individuals like Muniba Mazari, that find strength in the face of adversity to build a life they are proud of. Ultimately, with Allah’s guidance, we all deserve to taste our very own delicious version of a citrus concoction; and its sweetness is one decided by our very own making.

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Gear Up Girl gets cyclists moving Sakinah Bokhari More than 1500 women cyclists participated in Gear up Girl on Sunday 11 March 2018 finishing at Cronulla beach to raise money for the Heart Foundation. It has been an annual event since 2008, with cyclists enjoying the pristine ride of 20km, 40km, 60km or the new 80km ride from Sydney Olympic Park to Cronulla.

Ayesha Khan, 10 years old, completed the 20km ride.

Gear Up Girl is a Bicycle NSW initiative, held with the support of the Heart Foundation, that provides opportunities for women to experience the pleasure of riding a bicycle. Research shows that only 26% percent of riders in NSW are women (2016 Bicycle NSW Bike Riders Survey), Events like Gear up girl drastically wants to shake up this statistics. A group of 20 women from Sydney Cycling Sisters took part in Gear Up Girl across different distances on offer. They united at the finish line to much excitement and exuberation. The youngest member was Ayesha Khan, 10 years old, who completed 20km which was a spectacular accomplishment considering this was her first ride. Most notably was Assmaah Helal. She was selected as a brand ambassador for Gear up Girl. Her story was featured on the Gear Up Girl website and in the ride information brochure among 20 others. Assmaah’s key message was to inspire women to be comfortable and confident in who they are and Sydney Cycling Sisters does that by providing a safe and supportive environment for women to get together, promote positive health and well-being and

Shoebox4Syria:

break down social and cultural barriers. The key message in promoting Gear up Girl was to encourage all women to get on their bike in celebration of International Women’s Day (Thursday 8 March 2018) and Bicycle NSW and the Heart Founda-

tion are on a mission to communicate some hard-hitting facts about Heart Disease and the importance of exercise. Sakinah Bokhari is a teacher based in Sydney.

Seeking help for Eid gifts for children orphans and widows

Manarul Islam Al Siraat College students volunteering their time outside school hours to help prepare boxes for shipping. Gulhan Eryegit Yoldas There’s a buzz in the air as families across Australia prepare gift boxes for children in Syria as a part of the Shoebox 4 Syria drive. This month the Al Siraat College community was featured on SBS ONE news for the overwhelming response they received from across Victoria after advocating for this incredible initiative. The positive media coverage on SBS featured a video of hundreds upon hundreds of gift boxes filling up the assembly hall and various school room, labelled and ready to be shipped off in a container to Syria. The gift boxes will arrive in time for Eid putting a smile Syrian children’s faces and giving them moments of happiness amongst the rubble and the destruction that surrounds them. Ms Noori Ahmad, the science & maths teacher who introduced the Shoebox 4 Syria campaign as a part of Al Siraat College SRC, was visibly moved by the great acts of APRIL 2018 / ISSUE 149

Stacked gift boxes in one of the offices at Al Siraat College. kindness and generosity of the school community, and the wider community, towards the children of Syria. A very humbled Ms Noori explained, “I would like to say a special thank you to Shoebox4Syria drive’s Sister Khouloud and Safiya, Al Siraat College staff, parents and students; all the communities across Melbourne including the Dandenong communities who literally sent in a truck loaded with over 400 boxes last week, Islamic Playgroup and many other organisation who contributed so generously to this campaign. God bless them all.” One parent who was equally moved by the sheer volume of boxes now waiting for shipping day, explained, “We want to send a message to the children of Syria that we are thinking of you, we are praying for you and this what is happening... it’s not your fault. You are loved and we might be on the other side of the world but you know I buy gifts for my own children for Ramadhan, they too are like my children. Of course, I will buy for them, everyone will, everyone has.”

Orphans and widows are the most vulnerable of our societies and no more so anywhere than in India. Caring for and supporting them is, therefore, is one of the more challenging yet most rewarding acts of service. That is why Hamza Ben Abdul Rahman travelled to Australia recently. Mr Abdul Rahman came as a representative of the Organisation Function for Eytham’s Respect (OFFER) – an Indian based charity that supports over 7,500 orphans and 2,500 widows in India. OFFER has expanded its reach to a wider number of states in India and now operates in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Gujarat, West Bengal, and Jammu Kashmir. Its charity operations are directed from four offices throughout India at Calicut, New Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Bangalore. Mr Abdul Rahman’s objective in travelling to Australia was to engage with Australian based charities and organisations to

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make them aware of the good work OFFER carries out so that they could support its efforts. These include orphan sponsorship, rural water and sanitation, providing seasonal food and health care. OFFER is in partnership with Islamic Relief WorldHamza Ben wide and its General SecreAbdul tary Shamsudheen MohamRahman. med Koya is the Director of Islamic Relief India guiding its operations. OFFER is also a member of World Assembly of Muslim Youth, Saudi Arabia, and regular receiver of charity funds from Muslim Aid UK, and Human Concern International, Canada. For more information about OFFER and how Australians can help, please visit their website: www.yatheem.org or email them: offer@yatheem.org or Mr Abdul Rahman directly at hamza.rahman@ yatheem.org. They can also be contacted by post and phone: OFFER, 37/2127, East Kallai, Calicut 673 003, Kerala, India. Telephone: +91 495 2301950. Mobile:+91 9447132040

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Sydney Thunder and Police team up for Afghan cricket cup

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AMUST Media The Australian Federal Police (AFP) teamed up with the Afghan-Australian Youth Association (AAYA) to host the first Afghan Youth Community (AYC) Cup on Sunday 25 February 2018 in Western Sydney. With the support of the Sydney Thunder, the AAYA took on sides from the AFP and NSW Police Force, in a day of round-robin competitions. The event successfully built stronger ties between police and the Afghan-Australian community. The Gala event began as an idea from one of the high profiled AAYA founding members, Hameed Kherkhah, along with the AFP Community Liaison Team Sydney Office team, who wanted a way to encourage the community to positively engage with and learn more about policing in Australia. As a former Sydney Thunder player, Hameed enlisted his previous club’s support, with the Thunder, generously offering assistance to hold the Gala at one of their venues, Blacktown International Sports Park, and provided umpires and a scorer for the day. Sydney Thunder had also arranged for the ‘Thunder Bus’ to be on site for the day, offering those attending a chance to test their

AAYA Founder Hameed Kherkhah (in AAYA blue) with AFP Representative Rob Jackson (in dark blue polo), SMNSW CMD Chris Sheehan (in green and gold), and CLTSO Team Leader D/SGT Jeanette Boland, and AAYA President Zak Aziz (right). cricket skills in an interactive visual display. as AAYA members have experienced that Youth,” Mr Germon said. AFP State Manager New South Wales youth in our community feel that they are The Ambassador for Afghanistan to AusCommander Chris Sheehan said the day disadvantaged and excluded. We aim to tralia also dropped by from Canberra to was about more than just getting runs on the change this perception and bridge the gap show his support for the event and presented score board. by organising events like these where youth the medals and trophy for the event; includ“The day is a fantastic opportunity for the and community members can interact with ing the ‘Spirit of Cricket’ award. AFP to demonstrate that we’re approacha- the police and feel included as part of soFor more of the award ceremony ble and we’re here to help and support the ciety, be successful people and contribute please click the link: https://www.facecommunity. And hopefully it shows we’re in a positive way to the society,” he further book.com/1761067850853062/videnot too bad at cricket either,” Commander added. os/1850159471943899/?q=afghan%20ausSheehan said. Lee Germon, General Manager Sydney tralian%20youth%20association AAYA founding member Hameed Kher- Thunder said supporting the community is At these events everyone’s a winner, espekhah said that the event aims to build rela- a key driver for the team. cially community, but the actual final table tionships between the community and po“Sydney Thunder is proud to support reflected the following outcome: lice. community projects within our region of 1 AFP v AAYA2 – AAYA2 won “We know that for some in our commu- Western Sydney and Regional NSW.” 2 AAYA1 v NSWP – AAYA1 won nity, the idea of engaging with the police “Cricket is the perfect sport to bring com3 AAYA1 v AAYA2 – AAYA1 won can feel quite intimidating and we want to munities together, we are pleased to support NSWP v AFP – abandoned due to rain change that,” Mr Kherkhah said. this great event alongside the Australian “This is a great initiative for our youth Federal Police and the Afghan-Australian

City2Surf Muslims: Running for a good cause Ibrahim Taha Sydney’s iconic City2Surf run has a new, vibrant Muslim Team this year as 80,000 people cover a 14-kilometre distance from Sydney’s CBD to Bondi Beach. The City2Surf Muslim Team came to fruition last year with eight participants, however, the team’s leader, Ali Sowaid, expects that to increase to eighteen this year. The impetus behind City2Surf is all about charity, and this year the Muslim Team is hoping to raise $10,000 for HayatHouse, an initiative by ‘Mission of Hope’ to as-

sist youth susceptible to substance abuse, gang-related crimes and criminal behaviours. In order to reach the desired amount, the Muslim Team have decided to collect recyclable items such as cans and bottles, which will then be deposited for cash. The aim is to collect 100,000 cans and bottles which will meet the target, and when asked whether this was an ambitious aim, Ali said, “We need to exhibit to the broader Australian community, that Muslims are making a positive contribution to society, I’m confident we will reach our target.” Fitness is an inevitable part of the City-

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2Surf run but that is not the sole purpose. The Muslim team want to draw attention to local issues and acknowledge that while donating to charities whose work focuses overseas is important, “we sometimes forget the issues in our own backyard”, he said. The work of HayatHouse focuses heavily on local youth and this is what the Muslim Team want to make evident, that there is a range of challenges in our own communities that require our support. Collecting recyclable items is also constructive for the environment. The Muslim Team have already witnessed the positive change this creates, as families stockpile

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bottles and cans. “It has ripple effects by creating the right system of disposal within a household”, Ali said. An integral part of this event is inclusivity, which explains why many non-muslims have also contributed to the cause. In fact, a non-muslim colleague of Ali’s donated 600 recyclable items alone. The City2surf Muslim Team is inclusive of all, regardless of gender or creed. Many schools and organisations have shown support to the Muslim Team, which is a positive sign, for a community wide initiative. You can get behind the City2Surf Muslim Team by organising a pick up of recyclable items for yourself, your family or organisation on 0424185399. Start collecting!! Follow the hashtag #2018City2SurfMuslimTeam

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Amna and Assmaah join Sport Power List Theresa Dyckman Australians, Amna Karra-Hassan and Assmaah Helal have made it to the 2018 Women in Sport Power List that includes 30 of the most influential Muslim Women in Sport from 20 countries around the globe who impact the lives of many. Where the Muslim community is constantly in the spotlight globally, Muslim women are often being judged, and spoken about in the media, as opposed to being given a chance to represent themselves.

Image by MWiSN.

“This Power List showcases a diverse tapestry of professions within the sports industry and women from all walks of life, who represent 20 countries and together positively impact the lives millions across the world,” as described by the Muslim Women in Sport Network. Amna Karra-Hassan, described as an “agent of change”, driving diversity and participation, she is an AFL Administrator, who founded the first ever Muslim women’s AFL team in Australia, the Auburn Giants. Eager to play the sport, she searched for an AFL team in Western Sydney and found there was none. She took the initiative and started her own. “I’m honoured to be recognised among the sports leaders and women who inspire me! It’s fulfilling to contribute locally to w o m e n ’s sport, governance and leadership. It’s incredible to grow that passion and contribute Assmaah Helal.

to the conversation and influence change on a global scale,” stated Amna Karra-Hassan. Assmaah Helal is an award-winning Program Administrator and Chair of the Commonwealth Youth Sport for Development, and Peace Group. She was recognised for her innovative impact on women’s sport. She is also the Programme Operations Manager at Creating Chances, Football United. “I am absolutely thrilled and honoured to be on the Muslim women in sport power list, listed among some incredible women around the world leading positive change in sport

and society. It is about time we change the conversation about how we are portrayed in sport,” said Assmaah Helal. Carried out on Friday 16 March, The Power List selection panel included Prince Ali bin Hussein of Jordan, former NFL player Husain Abdullah and Baroness Sayeeda Warsi from the UK, the first Muslim woman to serve in the UK Cabinet. Along with the launch of the list, the MWSN is launching a Muslim Women in Sport Virtual Summit, ‘Innovators in Sport’, to be carried out between 4-6 May 2018. The organisation aims to demonstrate the range of achievement of Muslim women as a minority in the Sports industry. It also intends to shift the narratives in today’s context by not only reiterating the true strength of Muslim women but presenting role models for younger generations to emulate. Registration for the summit is free and available at https://mwisn. org/conferenceschedule/ Theresa Dyckman is a graduate of the SBS & NITV Mentorship Program. She is a revert, who is passionate about multiculturalism, and the need for diversity in the media.

Amna Karra-Hassan.

CareFlight celebrates cultural diversity Mehar Ahmad CareFlight, an aeromedical charity hosted Australians from diverse cultural to celebrate Harmony Day on Sunday 25 March 2018 at its Westmead base, thanks to the initiative of 16-year-old Rabia Rasool. The event was attended by more than 50 people of diverse cultural background including guests, Mr Abdul Majid Yousfani, Consul General of Pakistan, Sydney, Mr Phillip Ruddock, Mayor of Hornsby Shire Council and Dr Michelle Byrne, Mayor of The Hills Shire Council. “Today is all about building bridges, talking to strangers and letting people know that everyone belongs. I believe in this vision and believe in achieving love and equality for all. I believe in a society where we accept everyone for who they are indifferent to their race, culture, belief or interpretation because I am, you are, we are Australians,” Rabia declared. Harmony Day is a day to celebrate Australian multiculturalism, based on the successful integration of migrants into our community. It is an opportunity for all Australians to embrace cultural diversity and to share what we have in common.

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“As an Australian-born Pakistani, I recognise the diversity within our multicultural society and believe that it is something to be embraced,” Rabia said. Since first held in 1999, Harmony Day has grown to become a significant annual day for Australians to come together and celebrate our nation’s cultural diversity. CareFlight has the mission to save lives, speed recovery and serve the community. Established in 1986, CareFlight provides the highest standard of care to our patients nationally. Their critical care doctors, paramedics and nurses are specially trained to care for seriously injured people who need emergency treatment at the scene of an accident. CareFlight medical teams use helicopters, turboprop and jet aircraft and road vehicles. Rabia, currently a year 11 student at Mount St Benedict College, first decided

to raise awareness and funds in her local community for CareFlight after a visit to the rapid response helicopter base in Westmead a few years ago. “I’ve lived in Australia my whole life and I decided I want to give something back my community. I’m part of the Muslim community but unfortunately in my community, there’s not much awareness of the amazing service CareFlight provides so I decided to change that,” Rabia said. “Often people forget about what our community provides us with. Careflight is a key example of the wonderful services available to the community,” she further added. It is the second time Rabia has rallied the community around Harmony Day. In 2016, aged just 13, she ran a campaign to educate her community about CareFlight and raised valuable funds for the charity with her family, friends and school.

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Rabia Rasool with Mr Phillip Ruddock

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Bad refugees and good refugees: a policy of colour Sayed Rahmatullah Hussainizada There is a general discourse of demonising people seeking asylum, refugees and migrants that is often perpetuated by the media discourse, lack of good political leadership and understanding of nuanced dynamics. When we hear the Minister for Immigration and Border Protection, Peter Dutton, tasking his Department to look into a special refugee intake of white South African farmers, because “they work hard, they integrate well into Australian society, they contribute to make us a better country and they’re the sorts of migrants that we want to bring into our country”, suggests that other refugee groups don’t – a false and misrepresentation of majority of refugee stories who work hard to contribute to Australia. While I would wholeheartedly support any government policies that assists persecuted groups of people to find a safe haven, I categorically stand against any such policy that is based on a fallacy or prejudice at the expense of others. Peter Dutton is prepared to hypocritically ship refugees as dozens leave Nauru for resettlement in US and blindfolds himself to their refugee-ness by not resettling them in Australia. The real question here to be asked is, what are the differences between the South African farmers and those detained in Manus and Nauru, aside from their skin colour? This suggestion by Peter Dutton is purely a disgraceful attempt to dehumanise the thousands of refugees currently in detention in Nauru and Manus Island and thousands

more who are in a limbo due to the draconian Temporary Protection Visa regimes. Much like his Liberal Party leaders including Malcolm Turnbull MP and former leaders the likes of Tony Abbott, Peter Dutton, and many Australia politicians have a long history of using language and political games, to dehumanise refugees and sway public opinion against people seeking asylum, particularly those who have resorted to the toughest journey to safety – by boat. Australian politicians and the mainstream media have done a notoriously spectacular job in influencing public opinion against people seeking asylum – predominantly, speaking about them in relation to their mode of arrival. Terminology such as ‘illegal boat arrivals’ and ‘unauthorised maritime arrivals’ have become synonymous with the term ‘asylum seekers’ and this has an unprecedented effect on the people seeking refuge from persecution. It has painted asylum seekers and refugees somehow underserving and not entitled to our compassion and therefore, their ‘genuine-ness’ is often a question. These constant hate mongering of people seeking asylum and refugee beating not only adds to the trauma refugees have faced fleeing their home countries but also draws the morale of the general populace to the ground, constantly feeding negative stereotypes and biased propaganda. Such a discourse, undoubtedly, creates a culture of normalising hate and racism in a progressive society. By the same token, preferential treatment of refugees based purely on their skin colour, creates a divide from within refugee groups and akin to the culture of stereotypical, social class that has been the hallmarks of authoritarian occupations and colonialism. Again, this is another indication of the purely racist attitude brewing in our society

Those who seek asylum in Australia have a lot to contribute. Having received this human rights award from UTS is a testament to social change on grassroots level. as a direct influence of politicians and lack of proper media representation. I am personally appalled by the lack of leadership. But importantly I am concerned with the lack of cultural understanding and competence. I am a big believer of working from the grassroots upward. The building blocks of our multicultural society are the grassroots organisations, ethno-specific communities and cultural hubs that celebrate our diversity. As such I believe the way forward is to work on local levels to portray solutions. A shift in perspective will eventuate only when issues are properly dissected and a better alternative is presented. Refugees and people seeking asylum need our compassion. Those who are in Australia

need our compassion. Those in Nauru and Manus need our help and I think the best way to dispel myths around people seeking asylum and refugees and gradually change public opinion is to show the society the success stories, the businesses and the contributions they make in making Australia a success story for multiculturalism. Stay tuned for my next story which will explain how I am trying to do my bit in beating injustice and showcasing positive stories. Sayed Rahmatullah Hussainizada is a solicitor, journalist and an entrepreneur based in Sydney. Sayed is the public and policy officer for Afghan Fajar Association Incorporated and the Founder of CultureShare.

The Sultans of the Hearts:

Lessons in moral psychology

Mobinah Ahmad

The Sultans of the Hearts: The moral psychology of Abu Talib al-Makki and Imam al-Muhasibi, was the topic of presentation by Aftab Malik at an event hosted by Mīzān Avenue on Saturday 24 March 2018 in Yagoona, Sydney. In this back to basics lecture, Aftab examined the central role of patience in the believer’s arsenal as an active, not passive force for good, and how that developed as a basis for self-refinement. In his talk, Aftab referenced the following hadith when trying to highlight how the knowledge of Islam tends to be partially understood. Umm Salamah narrated that the Prophet (s) said: “There is no Muslim that is afflicted with a calamity, and he says what Allah has commanded him to say: “To Allah we belong and to him we will return! O Allah! Give me the rewards (of being patient over) this calamity, and grant me something better than it to replace it, except that Allah will give him something better to replace it.” “Nobody knows the second part. There’s two parts: we always hear (the first part). Contrary to myth, when something bad happens to you, you can complain about it. There’s two types of complaints when going through trials and tribulations. The first one,

that is not recommended - is to complain to human beings. The second one, is to complain to God, because He is the one that can do something about it.” By drawing upon the sayings of the salaf and the Khalaf, Aftab demonstrated how these leaders operationalised patience in the face of adversity. He explained the story of Bilal (r) not being able to recite the adhan after the Prophet’s (s) death. Imam Hussain (r) told Bilal (r) to “give the Adhan like you used to give in the days of my grandfather”, and Bilal (r) gave the adhan for the first time after six months. When Bilal (r) gave the adhan and proclaimed “I testify that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah”, even the veiled wom-

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en came out of their houses. It was such a powerful and touching scene, that people began to say: ‘Allah’s messenger has arrived, he is here’. It is on this day, the men and the women cried more than they had ever cried since the passing of the Prophet Muhammad (s). “This is our religion. It’s not some monstrosity where men do not show that they’re human beings. Even inanimate objects wept.” said Aftab. The lecture concluded with five pieces of advice for the seeker of knowledge, traversing the well-trodden path to achieve tawhid: 1. Mind Your Own Business. 2. There’s a time to speak and a there’s a time to be silent. Learn when to be silent. 3. Make Dhikr of Allah. In a hadith, the

Prophet (s) said “Make Dhikr so much that people call you mad. As he eloquently put it: “Everything in Islam has a restriction: has a cap, the only thing that doesn’t - is Dhikr. Now we don’t Dhikr, we just bicker.” 4. The more you learn, the more humble you should be. 5. Be Merciful. “The last thing that I want to say to you is this. If Allah closes a door on you through His wisdom, He’ll open another door through His mercy.” Aftab Malik is the author of The Broken Chain: Reflections upon the Neglect of a Tradition, a book that examines the depth and breadth of classical Islamic scholarship, in relation to the veneration of the Prophet Muhammad (s). Aftab is currently preparing material for his forthcoming classes on postmodernism and its impact upon Muslim activism. Mīzān means balance, measure or scale so often referred to in the holy Quran to exemplify the Islamic Tradition. Mīzān Avenue seeks to enrich individuals by linking them to teachers engrained in traditional knowledge and service by encompassing a holistic approach in order to cultivate an inclusive community in Sydney. Mīzān Avenue also aims to provide the tools to navigate the practice of traditional Islam in modern spaces. Mobinah Ahmad is the NSW Executive Officer of The Australia Arab Chambers of Commerce & Industry (AACCI).

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BUSINESS 29

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Babri Masjid: An issue of contention in India Zahid Jamil India awaits Supreme Court verdict in a decades-long dispute between Muslims and Hindus over a centuries-old mosque site known as the Babri Masjid which was destroyed by Hindu activists in 1993. Hindus claim that the mosque was built by Moghul emperor Babar at the birthplace of their god Rama. Widespread communal violence, following the destruction of the mosque, had resulted in more than 2000 deaths, mostly of Muslims. The leading Hindu preacher Sri Sri Ravi Shankar raised a controversy by saying that “If Ram Mandir issue is not solved, we will have a Syria in India.” “Muslims should give up their claim on Ayodhya as a goodwill gesture. Ayodhya is not a place of faith for Muslims. We cannot make Lord Ram to be born in another place,” he said. Such a claim by the leading Hindu preacher is the evidence of psyche of majority Hindu community in the current environment when Hindu extremism is on the rise in the country. Muslims are living in constant fear as Hindu extremists keep raising controversial issues to harass more than 180 million Muslims living in India. There is a section among Muslims who are willing to hand over the site in order to seek goodwill from the majority community. The leading Muslim scholar Maulana Salman Nadwi had suggested an out of court settlement saying “There is scope in Shariyat for shifting the Mosque’. He claimed that such a gesture would help in bringing

about Hindu-Muslim unity & solving this issue.” However, Nadwi received a rebuke from many corners of the Muslim leadership leading to his expulsion from the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB). Muslims reaction is not without basis. For hardliner Hindus, it is not the only site which they claim to be a temple. They claim that Muslim invaders forcefully converted thousands of temples into their tombs and mosques. Muslims believe that if they hand over this site to Hindus without adequate legal process, they will continue to pursue the cases of hundreds of other mosques, creating a polarised atmosphere in the country over a long period of time to come. The fact is that while Hindu extremists have developed to become a very strong political force in India while Muslims have failed in creating a leadership who can represent Muslims in an effective manner. It is important that Muslims form a Congress/Shura council to lead Muslims of India. The members of such council shall include political, social, religious leaders as well as intellectuals including leading Muslim servicemen, academicians, business leaders and professionals. Its manifesto should be drawn by the leading intellectuals who are not only experts in social and political science but also the scholars of Quran and Sunnah. The decisions by the leadership of the council should be binding on everyone. However, they should only make such decisions after a proper consultative process. Surely under current situation of extreme crisis for Muslims in India, some tough decisions may need to be made. Prophet Mohammad (s) did so in Suleh Hudaibiya. Muslims are not only the weaker party but they are also the weakest link.

Hindutava leadership have been playing their cards wisely to reduce Muslims to an insignificant group politically despite them being the second largest religious group in the country. Muslims need to develop strategies to counter Hindutava game plan, not by being adamant on each and every issue but by taking initiatives including seeking friendship and goodwill at times, if circumstances demand so. Giving away Babri Masjid land with the announcement from above Muslim Shura/ Congress as a step towards friendship and to create religious harmony and goodwill towards Majority community will not be detrimental to the Muslim cause. If this offer comes from Muslims, rather than from courts, it will have a different impact on

Hindu masses. However, with the rapid rise of Hindu extremism under PM Modi, Hindu leadership is unlikely to accept any offer as they are determined to harm Muslims in order to take revenge for a thousand years of Muslim rule in India. Zahid Jamil is an engineering post graduate from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) and runs a financial planning practice based in Sydney. He heads South Asian Muslim Association of Australia, SAMAA: http://samaa. org.au ), a benevolent institution offering wide range of services to the community elders. He also moderates an Islamic website “Islamic Forum for Education and Research” http://isfer.info/

Sri Lanka: UN condemns UN: Myanmar should be anti-Muslim violence investigated for crimes against Rohingya

Communal violence in central Kandy region has led to the deaths of at least two people with dozens injured. The United Nations has condemned a string of anti-Muslim attacks in Sri Lanka including the burning of mosques and businesses. Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs Jeffrey Feltman told the Sri Lankan government the people behind the violence should be brought to justice. During his visit, Feltman “condemned the breakdown in law and order and the attacks

The UN human rights chief has called for all atrocities committed against Myanmar’s Rohingya to be referred to the International Criminal Court (ICC) for prosecution. Prince Zeid bin Ra’ad Zeid al-Hussein, who has previously described Myanmar’s campaign against the Rohingya as a “textbook case of ethnic cleansing”, also urged the country to allow monitors into restricted areas to investigate what he called suspected “acts of genocide”. If they want to disprove the allegations of serious violations against the Rohingya, “invite us in” to Rakhine State, Zeid told a news conference on Friday in Geneva. “We are saying there are strong suspicions that, yes, acts of genocide may have taken place. But only a court can

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against Muslims and their property”, a UN statement said. Feltman, who met with local Muslim leaders to show solidarity, “urged swift and full implementation of the government’s commitment to bring the perpetrators of the violence and hate speech to justice, to take measures to prevent recurrence, and to enforce non-discriminatory rule of law”.

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confirm this,” the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights added. Al-Hussein’s comments come after Myanmar National Security Adviser Thaung Tun said on Thursday that “if it was genocide, they [Rohingya] would all be driven out”. Ro Nay San Lwin, a Rohingya activist, said the UN’s announcement was “long overdue.”

Britain First leader and deputy Western states aided Egypt’s leader jailed for hate crimes military power consolidation Western governments and arms companies have contributed to the Egyptian military’s consolidation of political power, a new report said. Titled The Officers’ Republic, the report was published by Transparency International Defence & Security a week before Egyptians take to the polls in an election that is APRIL 2018 / ISSUE 149

expected to see the president and military general, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, secure another four-year term. The report said Western defence companies - with approval from their governments - continue to provide Egypt’s military with aid and security support without any form of “meaningful transparency”.

The leader and deputy leader of far-right group Britain First have been found guilty of religiously aggravated harassment. Paul Golding, 36, and Jayda Fransen, 32, were arrested over the distribution of leaflets and posting of online videos during a gang-rape trial. Fransen was convicted of three counts of religiously aggravated harassment. Golding was found guilty of one charge. Both were jailed at Folkestone Magis-

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trates’ Court. Fransen was handed a 36-week sentence and Golding 18 weeks. During their trial in January, the court heard they had targeted homes and people in Kent whom they believed were connected to a rape trial at Canterbury Crown Court where three Muslim men and a teenager were convicted of rape and jailed. The pair, both from Penge in south-east London, were arrested in May last year.

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Hamid Ansari “Indian experience of diversity a lesson for all” AMUST

Manarul Islam The world can learn much from India on how to manage diversity to maintain a cohesive society, according to former Vice President of India, Mr Hamid Ansari. Mr Ansari was in Australia to give a public lecture on India and Islamic Civilization: Contributions and Challenges at Llewellyn Hall, Australian National University, as a guest of the ANU Centre for Arab & Islamic Studies (CAIS), on Wednesday 21 March 2018. Mr Ansari served as Vice President of India and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha (Upper House of Indian Parliament) from 2007

CAIS Director Prof. Amin Saikal introduces the speaker.

to 2017. He joined the Indian Foreign Service in 1961. His diplomatic assignments included being Permanent Representative to the United Nations, High Commissioner to Australia and Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, Afghanistan, Iran and Saudi Arabia. He served as Vice-Chancellor of the Aligarh Muslim University and has been a Visiting Professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University and Jamia Millia Islamia in Delhi. CAIS Director Professor Amin Saikal introduced the speaker, recollecting their friendship during the time that Mr Ansari was High Commissioner to Australia for four years. In his lecture, Mr Ansari painted the broad picture of Islam in India for over a thousand years, from the early days of Islam itself to the current situation. He pointed out that in those times when large parts of India was ruled by Muslims, at no stage was the state theocratic nor was Islam declared to be the State religion. “Adaptability and accommodation and attendant creativity can be depicted as dimensions of Muslim culture as it developed and flourished in the Indian subcontinent,” he reflected. According to Mr Ansari, the partition of India in 1947 brought Islamic and nationalistic challenges. “The response from the Muslim community, and from the institutions of the Indian state, has been a mixed one; it poses a challenge both to their capacity to adapt and to Indian democracy’s commitments to princi-

Mr Hamid Ansari speaks at Llewellyn Hall, ANU in Canberra. ples of pluralism and secularism.” accepting diversity in a plural society and a He cautioned against seeing this as only democratic polity can be of relevance to othas a challenge for Muslims in India – rather ers in a globalising world. It also speaks to it is a challenge for India as a nation. the experiences of Muslim minorities genAnd India, as well as the global communi- erally and to mutual contributions to each ty, can learn from India’s past itself. other’s civilization.” “The Indian experience of challenges in

Book Review: The Book that Contains No Doubt Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad I know Dr Rashid Raashed as a learned scholar having studied traditional Islam from esteemed Islamic scholars first in Bangladesh and then in Middle East. After migrating to Australia and while serving the community here in Sydney in various capacity including an Imam, he completed his masters degree from the University of Sydney and doctorate from Macquarie University. But now I realise that he is another adventurous explorer like me in the field of Islam especially pertaining to the Quran, the lofty exalted message of the supreme Creator, Sustainer, God (Khaaliq, Rabb, Allah respectively). For long I have been anxious for a generation of genuine explorers to present the message of noble ideas of Islamic doctrine through the Quran in depth in the modern context for the present secular modern society of Muslims and non-Muslims. The beauty of this book is that it presents the context in a modern comprehensible way of understanding in the main field of Islam. Dr Raashed has made critical analyses of significant issues and events in the Quran and extrapolated them to our contemporary times. It is very important in the present age to present the comprehensive message of Islam as taught and conveyed by the last Prophet. Islam is the only one divine religion given to all the prophets and messengers selected and ordered by the One God (Allah). The Qur’an is the last and final message to the Muslims, Christians, Jews, Zoroastrians, Buddhists, Hindus and followers of atheism. Another novelty of this book is that it is the version of the presentation of the issues that can be dealt with and studied seriously by humanity at large, not just Muslims,

who are interested in knowing and pondering over Islamic solutions for current issues given by One God through the last final message in the form of the Quran. Hence, this book can only be of benefit after a systematic study, going through the presentation in this book with an open but critical mind. Unfortunately the present contents list does not exactly clarify the themes on con-

temporary issues. In order to help the reader understand, I present the following modification to the table of contents: The Content of the Important Themes & Headings in this book This book contains a total of 238 headings across 752 pages. I propose that these headings are best represented by the following 5 main themes:

The Book that Contains No Doubt: An Empirical Analysis of Significant Issues in the Qur’an Inviting Critical Human Thought, Fairness, Logic, and Justice Author: Dr R. Raashed Publisher: Leadership College Australia Limited. Suggestions: To make this book more valuable, it is better to have a maximum of two books to avoid the bulkiness and thickness of one book. Two books shall make it easier for the readers to buy the hardcover/paperback of the books. Book 1 should contain Themes 1, 2, and 3; with Theme 1 containing 47 headings, Theme 2 containing 19 headings, and Theme 3 containing 50 headings, totalling

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116 headings. Book 2 should contain Themes 4 and 5; with Theme 4 containing 32 headings and Theme 5 containing 47 headings respectively, totalling 79 headings. The leftover miscellaneous headings should be left at the moment, or if possible be scrutinised and included under the 5 themes, and the remaining unused be left out and reserved for some other use.

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First Edition: January 2018. Pages: 752. Availability: Leadership College, PO Box 488, Chester Hill NSW 2162, Australia. Email r.raashed@ibagroup.com r.raashed@gmail.com ISSUE 149 / APRIL 2018

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The Covenants of Compassion from the Messenger of Mercy Dr John Andrew Morrow Prophet Muhammad (s) authored hundreds of letters. They are found in books of prophetic biography, traditions, jurisprudence, history, and Qur’anic commentary. Dozens of letters are cited in Jewish, Samaritan, Christian, and Zoroastrian sources. More than half a dozen originals survive in mosques, monasteries, museums, and private collections. These documents were dictated by the Prophet himself. Although he used many different scribes, the major covenants with the People of the Book were written down by ‘Ali (r) and Mu‘awiyyah (r) and witnessed by dozens of prominent Companions of the Prophet, including Abu Bakr (r), ‘Umar (r), and Uthman (r), among many others. The Messenger of Allah signed some of his correspondence with his palm-print and, later, when his ring was made, he marked them with his famous seal. Most of the letters, treaties, and covenants of the Prophet can be found in al-Watha’iq, by Dr Muhammad Hamidullah, Makatib al-Rasul by Ayatullah Ahmadi Miyanji, and Kalimah Rasul al-A‘zam by Ayatullah

Hasan Shirazi. The most important studies on the subject include Power Manifestation of the Sirah by Zafar Bangash, the Covenants of the Prophet Muhammad with the Christians of the World by Dr John Andrew Morrow, and Islam and the People of the Book: Critical Studies on the Covenants of the Prophet, edited by the former, which features contributions by dozens of leading scholars. T h e letters, treaties, a n d covenants of the Prophet Muhammad (s) form a central part of his Sunnah. They permit us to properly interpret the Holy Book based on the Prophet’s instructions. As a prophet, messenger, statesman, po-

litical leader, and military strategist, Muhammad (s) engaged in extensive diplomatic efforts to spread Islam, invite people, tribes, and nations to the Muslim faith, or offer them to enter into an alliance with the Confederation of Believers that he created. By means of the Covenant of Madinah, the Prophet produced the first constitution in the history of humanity. B y means of the Covenants with t h e People o f the Book, he p r o duced declarations of human rights and charters of civil rights and freedoms, the likes of which would not be seen until the rise of modern Western democracies. Prophet Muhammad (s) granted rights

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and privileges the People of the Book who formed part of the Muslim Ummah or who were its allies. These include: • The Covenant of Madinah. • The Covenant of the Prophet Muhammad with the Monks of Mount Sinai. • The Covenant of the Prophet Muhammad with the Christians of Najran. • The Covenant of the Prophet Muhammad with the Christians of Persia. • The Covenant of the Prophet Muhammad with the Assyrian Christians. • The Covenant of the Prophet Muhammad with the Syriac Orthodox Christians. • The Covenant of the Prophet Muhammad with the Coptic Christians of Egypt. • The Covenant of the Prophet Muhammad with the Armenian Christians. • The Covenant of the Prophet Muhammad with the Samaritans. • The Covenant of the Prophet Muhammad with the Jews of Maqna. • The Covenant of the Prophet Muhammad with the Yemenite Jews. • The Covenant of the Prophet Muhammad with the Zoroastrians.

Environmental responsibility Islam and the environment Part 2

Riad Galil OAM

The Prophet Mohammad (s) has declared a substantial area around Medina as Haram (Sacred) as God had previously maintained a large area around Mecca as a Haram. Hunting land animals and wrecking flora at any time within these Haram areas are forbidden acts. The Prophet has also set some plots of fertile land for the public use and these were called hima (Protected). The hima areas were reserves for forests and wildlife where grazing and wood-cutting were restricted, and species roaming there were protected. At the same time, the fauna and floral life are protected all

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year round around both the Meccan Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s mosque in Medina (the Harams). These Haram areas were often drawn up around wells and springs to protect the water table from depletion. The concepts of hima areas, as well as other conservation measures, were taken up further by the successive Muslim leadership throughout the ages. Caliph Abu Bakr (r) forbade the Muslim troops from cutting or burning live trees in areas where fighting takes place. The restrictions imposed on land game for four months of the year, the Haram areas and the hima sanctuaries combine to conserve land animals and allow them to replenish their numbers. Numerous Qur’anic and Prophetic teachings combine to compel and motivate Muslims to care for their environments. Sahih al- Bukhari compiles many hadiths of the Prophet on agriculture and animal husbandry. One such hadith states that: “There is none amongst the believers who plants a tree, or sows a seed, and then a bird, or a person, or an animal eats thereof, but it is regarded as having given charitable gift (for which there is great recompense” (Bukhari 3:513). On the conservation front, the Prophet advised his followers to restrict their consumption of the earth’s resources to their immediate needs without causing any waste. In a hadith the Prophet reprimanded one of his close Companions for using excessive amounts of water for his ablution. In response to the Companion’s exclamation: ’Can there be wastefulness while taking the ablution?’ the Prophet replied: ’Yes, even if you take them on the bank of a rushing river’ Islamic environmental ethics call for a responsible attitude towards nature, which is part of biosphere as well as the generation to come. From its early days, Islam presented important guidelines for Muslims to learn the ethics of environmental responsibility. Man, as the vicegerent of God on earth has been charged with looking after the earth, its inhabitants and its resources. Man must maintain and develop earth’s resources to make them available to all mankind both

at present and in the future. Environmental protection is an important factor in preserving the earth and its resources for man’s immediate and later uses. The Sunna of the Prophet provides an ample source for us to construct an authentic Islamic environmental ethics. It also opens a wide avenue of creative and innovative solutions in the contemporary context.

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To be continued in the next issue/future issues. Mr Riad Galil OAM is Senior Imam at West Heidelberg Mosque and Chaplain both at RMIT University, City Campus as well as Deakin University, Burwood campus. Married with four children and nine grandchildren, he is based in Melbourne.

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Vaccination: A bioethical Islamic perspective Hyder Gulam The preservation of life as a principle of Islam and our faith gives greater honour to human life. Our great Muslim scholars like Ibn Sina have stated that “Medicine is the preservation of health and restoring it when it gets lost”, to accept a lesser harm, in order the ward off a greater one, or to forego a certain benefit to obtain a greater one. Vaccination is a medical preparation intended to produce an immunity to a disease by stimulating the production antibodies in the host body. Vaccines include suspensions of killed or attenuated microorganisms, products or derivatives thereof. The most common method of administering vaccines is by injection, oral and nasal spray. Many diseases have been prevented and even eradicated by the implementation and monitoring of a vaccination program, such as polio, measles etc. The higher objectives of Shariah as expounded by scholars of Islam are the preservation of religion, human life, progeny, material wealth and human reason. Islamic law aims to preserve essential and other interests by preserving their existence and also protecting them from destruction. One of the cardinal principles of Islamic law is to achieve benefits and ward off harm and corruption. We should also remember and practice the Prophetic traditions, where our beloved Prophet (s) not only sought remedy for himself, his family and companions, but also he used and advised certain medicaments eg black cumin (black seed, nigella sativa), aloe vera, senna, henna (lawsonia inermis), hijama (cupping) and using honey for many ailments, and their prevention (such as eating 7 arjwa dates every morning). The views and opinions on the contemporary process of vaccination are quite nuanced and evidence that supports the process exists in abundance. For instance, the eminent Muslim scholar Sheikh Yusuf Al-Qaradawi states that using vaccines to boost immunity against disease

is lawful, for it is a means of warding off something evil before it afflicts people. It is a duty of Muslims to do their best to ward off harm of all kinds, either before or after it comes. There is a juristic rule in this regard: Harm is to be warded off as much as possible. In fact, evidence and proofs state that the polio vaccine contains neither harmful elements nor impure ones and that it does not cause infertility as stated by opponents of vaccination. This is the first argument that supports the vaccination drives and refutes the arguments of those who have claimed that the vaccine is harmful and thus unlawful. Second, parents are responsible for providing their children as much as they can with all means of protection and immunity against harm and diseases in order to save them long-life suffering. Third, people in authority in every country are to enact laws and take actions, by means of which the health of people in general, and children in particular, is to be protected against diseases. In this regard, the government imposes a mandatory immunization scheme for children the requirements of which become more severe in cases of certain epidemics, such as meningitis. An example of this is when Muslims pilgrims to Makkah and Madinah must have vaccination certificate as a right of entry. Fourth, things are primarily in a state of purity. Experts in the field in question, ie, the vaccinations and immunizations, are the W o r l d Health Organization (WHO). The WHO has stated that the vaccines is not harmful in any way, nor does it include impure elements or cause infertility (i.e. polio vaccines). Fifth, vaccine has been used for a long time all over the world, including more than fifty Muslim countries, and has proved to be highly effective in eradicating diseases. No outstanding scholar, whether from Al-Azhar University, or anywhere else, has been reported to have objected to the use of

such vaccine. The Saudi scholar, Sheikh ibn Baaz also has provided a very useful ruling on giving treatment before sickness occurs, such as vaccinations. He said that there is nothing wrong with giving treatment if there is the fear that the disease may occur because of the presence of an epidemic or other factors which may cause disease. This is a method of warding off a problem before it happens. So if there is the fear of sickness and a person is vaccinated against an infection that is present in the land or elsewhere, there is nothing wrong with that, because it is a kind of protection. The Mufti of Kelantan (Malaysia), Mohamad Shukri Mohamad has said that Islam allows the use of vaccine although it contains ‘haram’ substances (forbidden in Islam) when there is no other medicine available. The respected Mufti has said that Islam stressed on the well-being of its followers in terms of faith, life, mind, lineage and wealth, as such the vaccine is permissible in Islam. Following this line of logic, the August European Council of Fatwa and Research (1-7 July 2003) has clearly stated that it is permissible to use vaccinations for the treatment and prevention of harm, especially since forbidding its administration will result in greater harm for the individual, family and community. According to them, this holds even if it is known that the vaccine may be from impure sources (such as the enzyme trypsin).[1] As social media becomes a prominent source of information, our media experts have cautioned against uncritically accepting information from non-reputable sources. Dr Nasya Bahfen a former ABC and SBS reporter, course coordinator - Masters in Journalism program at La Trobe University, has said that it’s so important to defer to the sources who attribute recognised scientific publications and mainstream medical professionals. “Reputable media outlets won’t give the time of day to the anti-vaccination lobby, and won’t fall into the trap of a false equivalency as if the anti-vaccination movement - which is actually tiny - is on the same level

as the majority of scientific finding. There is no such thing as a media conspiracy with this - there is no huge secret the anti-vaccination movement knows that the medical profession and medical researchers don’t know.” As Muslims, whose civilisation contributed greatly to the development of the scientific method, we should be wary of seeking medical advice from Facebook memes - leave this stuff to the people who spend their lives researching it, and seek media sources who attribute peer-reviewed scientific journals or mainstream medical professionals.” Dr Sara Hassan, Paediatric Medicine Resident, PhD in Paediatrics at The University o f Melbourne, gave a talk in November 2016, at the Australian Albanian Islamic Society Women’s group debunking myths associated with vaccinations. At the talk, Dr Sara said that medical professionals take an oath of non-maleficence, that is a pledge to do no harm. This principle is encompassed by the Hadith of the Prophet (s) ‘There should be no harm nor reciprocating of harm’. Dr Sara is an expert in these matters of vaccination, as both a medical practitioner and a research scientist. We should be listening to the advice of experts in our Ummah like Dr Sara, and heed the warnings of Dr Nasya about the perils of getting your knowledge from social media. [1] Transformation of impurity into another substance that is different in its properties and qualities, such as transformation of oil into soap and the like, or consumption of a substance through manufacturing as well as change of its essence and qualities is considered as an acceptable method in the Islamic jurisprudence in order to regard it as a substance that is pure and can be utilized for various purposes. Hyder Gulam is qualified nurse, lawyer, an accredited mediator as well as a Fellow of the Royal College of Nursing in Australia with postgraduate qualifications in business/management, law, nursing and Islamic studies. He is the founder of the Muslim Legal Network. He has served for close to 10 years as an officer with the Royal Australian Air Force.

Ibn Nafis: Cardiologist and medical scientist Professor Irfan Shahid Ibn Nafis, a great medical scientist and cardiologist of the 13th century, was the first to describe pulmonary circulation of the blood four hundred years before William Harvey’s reputed discovery of the pulmonary circulation of blood, which is part of the general circulation of blood in the human body. Ibn Nafis, as he is known in the literature of medicine and history, was born in 601 AH/1213 CE at a village called Qurashiya near Damascus in Syria. His full name is Ala al-Din Abul Hasan Ali bin Abil Hazm al-Qarashi al-Damashqi al-Misri. He received education in medicine at Nuri Hospital and Medical College at Damascus which was founded by a Turkish King Nur Al- Mahmud Ibn Zangi. Ibn Nafis learnt medicine from a famous medical expert Muhadhab al-Din al-Dakhwar. Besides medicine, he excelled in Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence), Arabic Literature and Islamic Theology. Ibn Nafis shifted to Cairo during his middle age and spent the rest of his life there. He joined the al-Masruriyya which was a famous seat of learning in Egypt and started

teaching Islamic Law. His name was included in the great theologian of his era, and he has authored some books on this topic. Subsequently, he was appointed as a director at two hospitals Bimaristan al-Nasiri Hospital/ Medical College and Bimaristan al-Qalawun Hospital in Cairo. Ibn Nafis spent his entire life in the historical city of Egypt in research, investigation, writing and practising medicine. Ibn Nafis invented the method of writing notes and books on the subject of medicine and anatomy. He was very fond of medical science and a man of the pen and donated his entire property to the library and hospital prior to his death. He died in 687 AH/1288 CE in Egypt. Ibn Nafis propounded the theory of pulmonary blood circulation with correct measurement and scientific reasoning. He described that the heart is laterally divided into two sections by a thick wall called septum. After a cycle of greater circulation,

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the blood returns to the right section of the heart, from there it goes out to the lungs for oxygenation. From the lungs, it returns to the left section of the heart from where it goes out on a fresh cycle of greater circulation. The circulation of blood from the heart to all parts of the body, except the lungs, is called greater circulation. The ‘deoxygenated’ or deficient blood which returns to the heart needs to be oxygenated before it goes out on a fresh cycle of greater circulation. The process of oxygenation takes place in the lungs which receive fresh air through respiration. The pulmonary circulation covers the circulation of the blood from the heart to the lungs and back. It is this part of the circulation which Ibn Nafis discovered is about 640 AH/1240 AD. Ibn Nafis described the pulmonary circulation of the blood in detail. With this discovery, Ibn Nafis also disproved the 1000-year old theory that the

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blood travelled directly from the right section of the heart to the left through the septum. This theory was presented by the ancient Greek scientist Galen (129-199 AD) who had even suggested that there were invisible pores in the septum. Ibn Nafis refuted the view of Galen on blood circulation through the septum; he clearly stated that the septum was solid and had no pores, visible or invisible. Blood naturally passed from the right ventricle to the left ventricle by way of the lungs. Discovery of correct procedure of blood circulation in the chambers of heart was one of the major discoveries in the history of medicine by Ibn Nafis in the 13th century. Ibn Nafis was a prolific writer on medical science; he authored numerous books and monographs on medicines which are still considered encyclopaedic on medicine. His books on medicine were included in the syllabus in various medical colleges and intuitions in Europe, Middle East and South Africa for several decades. Professor Irfan Shahid, based in India is a prolific writer on Islam and Muslims. He is an Islamic Economist and a Sharia Scholar and can be contacted via shahid_ irfan2002@yahoo.com. For more detail please visit his personal website www.irfanshahid.net ISSUE 149 / APRIL 2018

LIFESTYLE 18 - 22

UMMAH 23 - 24

EDUCATION 25 - 27

TRAVEL 28

BUSINESS 29

SOCIAL 30 - 31

Justice, where art thou? Shifa Mustafa Justice is a Lady Have you ever noticed the symbol for justice that adorns many of the higher courts throughout the world? Yes, Justice is typified by the statue of a woman. You will find her standing there blindfolded with the scales of justice held up by her left hand and the handle of a large sword in her right. The statue we see today had its origins in Rome as the Goddess Justitia (Latin:Iustitia) which adorned the Temple of Justice established in Rome in 13CE by Tiberius. This was a recognized allegorical personification of the virtue of Justice. I found it intensely interesting that Justice was not portrayed as a male – god or not! I also find it of great interest that today Justitia sits aloft the largely male-dominated temples of today’s Courts of Jus- t i c e worldwide, even those of male dominated patriarchal regions. Symbolism Look closely at her blindfold which represents an impartial justice – not to be influenced by recognition of whom the persons may be who seek her favour. The scales in her left hand give the message that Justice must be weighed carefully and not the slightest grain must be overlooked. The Sword of Justice by her right side gives the message that the carrying out of Justice can be swift and final. That symbolism has remained throughout these long centuries as a standard for purity of Justice. However, as we look down the centuries, we realize that the virtue so much desired was often trampled i n the dust of history by men whose desire was not for the elevation of truth and justice but for the elevation of self gratification and gain. Symbolism demolished One would have thought women in particular to be protected by the very symbolism that portrayed this virtue of Justice. This, however, was not the case. Throughout

history women have been downgraded. It matters not whether we look to Rome itself, or to India, China, Arabia or Western nations – all have fallen short. Women in general, for all the beauty of the allegory, have, in many regions, not been the recipients of respect, let alone equality or justice. The blindfold has been removed in so very many instances. Justice has become a very selective tool, particularly used in legislation by Governments, when it comes to those considered “lesser” or extraneous. Too often Justice has not been weighed at all, let alone carefully. Too often those who are oppressing and committing crimes of conscience against fellow humans are not being held to account. The Sword of Justice has become, in many ways, only part of a very pleasant allegory. Where may Justice be found? Justice is a cornerstone of all great faiths: Psalm 82 which is an exhortation to the Judges says, among other things: “How long will ye judge unjustly and accept the persons of the wicked?” also mentioning mercy for the poor. Jesus said, “Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mer-

cy.” The Qur’anic injunction portrays impartiality in Justice: “O ye who believe! Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even as against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, and whether it be against rich or poor; for Allah can best protect both. Follow not the lusts of your hearts lest ye swerve, and if ye distort (justice) or decline to do justice, verily Allah is well-acquainted with all that ye do.” It matters not whether we are looking to East or West, the same malady exists – we have become a world in which Justice has been betrayed in the great halls of power and the lesser councils of men. This is to our detriment for without Justice, stability and peace cannot exist. Shifa Mustapha is writer and community worker based in Brisbane.

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Importance of maintaining ties with relatives

Rendering of a Khutbah-Juma given at Cabramatta Mosque, Sydney on the topic. Sheikh Emad Hamdy One of the signs of a purified soul is maintaining good ties and being dutiful to your relatives through blood or marriage or what is known as silat-ar-raham in the Islamic terminology. The Qur’an and the Sunnah encourage us to strengthen ties with relatives and warn us against severing them. Allah says “O mankind! Be dutiful to your Lord (Rabb), Who created you from a single person (Adam), and from him (Adam) He created his wife [Hawwa (Eve)], and from them both He created many men and women and fear Allah through Whom you demand your mutual (rights), and (do not cut the relations of) the wombs (kinship) . Surely, Allah is Ever an All-Watcher over you.” The excellence of having good relations and ties with relatives are mentioned in many traditions of Prophet Mohammad (s). • Kindness to relatives is a sign of Iman. The Prophet said, “Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, should maintain good ties with relatives.” • Maintaining good relations and ties with kinship blesses the provisions and brings success in life. The prophet said, ‘He who desires that he be granted more provisions and his life be prolonged should maintain good ties with his kinship”. • The meaning of increased provisions and wealth and prolonged life is that Allah fills provisions and life with Barakah. • Strengthening one’s relation with relatives is like strengthening one’s relation with Allah. Allah says ‘Whoever strengthens ties with kinship strengthens ties with me; and whoever severs ties with kinship severs ties with me.’ • Strengthening one’s relations with relatives is a way to paradise. The Prophet said, ‘O people! greet each other by saying as-salam alykum; and feed the poor; strengthening ties with kinship; and offer prayer at night while people are asleep; for if you do that you will peacefully enter paradise.’ The meaning of silat-ar-raham or strengthening the ties with one’s relatives is to treat them kindly, to support them in times of need, removing harm from them, overlooking and disregarding mistakes, forgiving faults, ignoring shortcomings, being fair and just and asking Allah to make them righteous and success. It also includes sharing in their joy and sadness, protecting them in their absence, respecting the elderly amongst them, being compassionate with the young ones, bearing their mistreatment with patience, relating with them in the best manner and wishing them well. The person who perfectly maintains the ties of kinship is not the one who does it because he gets recompensed by his relatives but the one who truly maintains the bond of kinship, is the one who persists in doing so, even though others have severed ties with him and abandoned him. Abû Hurayrah narrated that a man said, “O Messenger of Allâh, I have relatives with whom I try to have a close relationship, but they sever (this relation). I treat them well, but they treat me ill. I am sweet to them but they are harsh towards me. Upon this the Prophet said: If it is so as you say, then you, in fact, throw hot ashes (upon their faces) and there would always remain with you

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from Allâh (an Angel to support you) who would keep you dominant over them so long as you adhere to this (path of righteousness.” It was said, as some words of wisdom – “do not severe relation with a close one, even if he was bad to you, for a person can never eat his own flesh even if he gets hungry. Beware of severing ties with kinship for this is destructive and a reason for being cursed as Allah says: ‘Would you then if you were given the authority do mischief in the land and sever your ties with kinship such are they whom Allah has cursed so that he has made them deaf and blinded their sight.’ Zaidal Abideen Ibn Ali Ibnul Husain, the grandchild of Al Hussein (r) advised his son saying ‘Don’t accompany the one who severs ties with kinship for I found him to be cursed in the book of Allah in three different places.” Ibn Masoud (r) was sitting one morning in a circle with a group when he said: “By Allah I ask him who has severed ties with his kinship to leave us, for we want to supplicate and call upon our Lord and the gates of heavens are blocked and sealed against the one who severed ties with kinship.” Severing relations with kinship is one of the great sins and its punishment takes place in this life and in the hereafter. The Prophet (s) said: ‘There is not a sin that is worse which Allah hastens the punishment for its committer in this life and what he will have waiting for him in the hereafter for oppression and severing ties with kinship.” The Prophet (s) said, ‘The deeds of the son of Adam are presented every Thursday night and the deeds for the one who severs tie with kinship are rejected .” Always maintain good ties with kinship and blood relations. Be kind to relatives even if they abandon and neglect you, maintain ties with them even if they sever ties with you, this will result in Allah continuing to bless you and increase your blessing your life.” Why do people sever the ties of kinship? • Ignorance: Being ignorant of the harmful consequences of severing the ties of kinship or being ignorant about the benefits of keeping the ties of kinship. • Lack of Taqwa: When a person is not God conscious and does not care for severing what Allah has ordered to be joined. • Arrogance. When people get rich, are in authority or occupy high positions, they become arrogant with their relatives and feel too proud to visit them. • Stressful blaming: Instead of looking at themselves, they put the blame of severing relationship with others. • Too busy: When people become too selfish pursuing their interests only disregarding relationships with their relatives. They can not find time to maintain ties of kinship. • No tolerance: Severing of ties because of mistakes committed by relatives rather than forgiving them. • Envy: Getting jealous of high achievements of relatives can result in the severing of ties with relatives. • Disputes: Delaying financial transactions or disputes regarding inheritance can lead to the severing of ties with relatives. Sheikh Emad Hamdy is the Imam at Cabramatta Mosque, South West Sydney, operated by LMA. He has a High Degree in Islamic studies in English from Alazhar university in Egypt and has served as an Imam in the Alawkaf in Egypt for 13 years.

AUSTRALASIAN MUSLIM TIMES

AMUST

TRAVEL

NEWS 1-4

BOOMERANG 5-7

COMMUNITY 8 - 12

AUSTRALIA 13 - 15

CENTREFOLD 16 - 17

Aspiring Leaders: Once in a life time tour Dr Zachariah Matthews Human Appeal Australia (HAA) in conjunction with Deen Academy (DA) hosted a group of young Muslim Australians for its fourth annual Aspiring Leaders Umrah Tour of four countries – Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Turkey and UAE. The tour, comprising fifteen participants from Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane and for the first time Perth, took place from 5 to 24 February 2018. The group of young university students and graduates were led and mentored by Bashar Al-Jamal, director of HAA and Dr Zac Matthews from DA. The journey started with the minor pilgrimage (umrah) in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. The spiritual enrichment gained by visiting Islam’s holiest mosque, the Ka’aba, and performing rituals as taught by Prophet Abraham and the final Messenger of God, Muhammad (s), is indescribable. Tour members spent invaluable time connecting with the Almighty and strengthening their inner spirituality. The City of Light, Madinah, the Prophet’s city, where his mosque and grave are located was the second stop of the tour. Standing at the very place where the profound message flourished left a lasting impression on all tour members. Several museums and exhibitions were visited in both historical cities includ-

ing the Holy Mosques. The group also visited the kiswa factory, which produces the special cloth draping the Ka’aba . The group had an opportunity to meet with Dr Osamah Barasheed; who studied in Sydney for several years before returning to work in public health in Makkah, providing useful insights into his time conducting research in Sydney. The group also visited the historical sites of Arafat, Mina, Quba, and Qiblatain. The most physically demanding event of the stay in Makkah was climbing the 600 steps of the Mount of Light to reach the Cave of Hira where the Prophet first received Divine revelation from the Archangel Gabriel. Eleven out of fifteen students successfully completed strenuous the climb. A surprise visit with YouTube sensation, Kamal Saleh from Sydney, was organised in Madinah while he was visiting the city as part of his honeymoon. After renewing spiritual connections at Islam’s holiest of cities, the tour then moved on to Jordan. As soon as the group landed, they visited a distribution centre and personally assisted with HAA’s Winter Aid Relief handing out gas cookers, blankets, mattresses and food packs to more than one hundred Syrian refugee families who were living in makeshift tents. The provisions were estimated to last about three weeks in the cold winter. Witnessing first-hand the dire plight of refugees was gut-wrenching and conveyed the invaluable

AUSTRALASIAN MUSLIM TIMES

lesson about the need to care for others. The group also attended an inspiring awards ceremony at an Orphan Centre in Amman, speeding time with the twenty-or-so orphans afterwards playing table tennis, pool and foosball. They met with the Conservation of the Holy Quran Society as well as the Australian Ambassador, Mr Miles Armitage. The tour group visited historical ruins at Um Qais and Ajloun after spending the night camping in the desert at Wadi Rum. The group also attended a lecture on the message of Islam by Dr Amjad Korsha, a lecturer at Jordan University. From Jordan, the group travelled to Istanbul in Turkey, equally rich in history bridging the East and West. The group’s first stop was to pray at the famous Fatih mosque, followed by Sultan Ahmet, Abu Ayyub Al-Ansari and other significant places. The tour group was extremely privileged to meet with the Grand-Mufti of Istanbul, Professor Hasan Yilmaz. Another highlight was a visit to the media organisation, TRT World, hosted by former Sydney resident and digital marketer, Hisham Krayem. Other visits included a breath-taking ferry ride on the Bosphorus Strait, Topkapi Palace, shopping at the Grand and Masri Bazaars and eating delicious broad beans outside the Suleimeniyeh mosque. The group also attended a meeting with Dr Abdulkhaliq Al-Sharif from the Sharif Academy. From Istanbul, the tour moved on to Dubai.

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The group visited the HAI Emirates offices in Ajman where presentations about the orphan program and various other humanitarian projects were outlined. The group participated in a workshop on leadership conducted by former Sydney-sider Ahmed Elshrif and did some site-seeing in Dubai before finally returning to Australia. The overwhelming feedback from participants was that this was a “once-in-a-lifetime tour” and would never be forgotten on their journey of personal development to serve the needs of humanity. Special acknowledgment goes to A&H Travel for supporting the 2018 tour. Tour group members Sydney: Karim Aggag, Mouhammad El-Kassir, Ahmed El-Kiki, Mohammed Ferkh, Mahardhika Hidayatullah, Zuhdi Khraim). Melbourne: Bilal Ali, Mohammad El-Houli, Yusuf Hassan, Saad Pramanik. Adelaide: Ammar Shahrizan, Shamil Jamion. Brisbane: Noorudeen Elsabawai, Nabeel Khan. Perth: Karim Elgawady. Group leaders Sydney: Bashar Al-Jamal, Dr Zac Matthews. Dr Zachariah Matthews is the Executive Director of Just Media Advocacy, Director of Deen Academy and a Human Appeal Leadership Alumni.

ISSUE 149 / APRIL 2018

BUSINESS The 2018 Australian investment transparency rules LIFESTYLE 18 - 22

UMMAH 23 - 24

EDUCATION 25 - 27

TRAVEL 28

BUSINESS 29

SOCIAL 30 - 31

AMUST

CHANGING TIMES Simon Harrison In 2015 the European Union hailed its new Transparency Register and disclosure system as a major step forward in shedding greater light on lobbying activities across the European Union (EU). In support of the Register and its associated processes, European Ombudsman Emily O’Reilly stated that transparency and related issues have “come right in from the margins and onto centre stage. In 2017 the Australian Foreign Influence Transparency Act followed the EU lead, and indeed the global trend towards greater transparency. However, whilst Australia followed suit it didn’t include any significant enforcement measures within the Act. This is about to change. The Foreign Influence Transparency Scheme (Charges imposition) 2017 Bill currently before Parliament proposes to impose a charge for applications for registration or renewal of registration under the 2017 Act and seeks to impose criminal offences for non-compliance. The Bill provides inter alia, that “ …..The scheme will provide transparency of the na-

ture and extent of influence activities (sic) undertaken by persons acting on behalf of foreign actors in Australian political and governmental processes. The scheme is intended to provide oversight of the many and varied ways in which foreign actors seek to exercise influence for the purpose of affecting political and governmental systems and processes, including the views of the Australian public on such matters. This will provide decision-makers and the Australian public with the information to accurately assess the interests being brought to bear in such processes. …..” It is not clear as to how the term “activities “ will be defined and experience shows that this will be something that will inevi-

tably be tested in the Courts as part of their Statutory Interpretation processes. For example, would such activity extend to government tendering processes? We can therefore expect a period of some uncertainty and no doubt a few early headlines. Similarly, lawyers are likely to have a field day in terms of the interpretation of “influence”. Some actions will be readily defined, and identifiable, as attempts at “influence” and as such unlawful. There is no question that the Australian public has to be protected against subversive foreign influence, but how this will play out in the commercial cut and thrust of major deals is another question. In many major projects financed by inter-

nationalised capital, the lines blur continually between the political, the commercial and the governmental processes. Clear legislative guidance will be required to help practitioners negotiate what could be a minefield of potential reputational as well as financial risk. There is a pattern emerging here when one also considers the recent changes to the Foreign Investment rules offering greater protections to the Australian public in relation to key property, energy and infrastructure assets. I would opine that all of these changes may be in large part a reaction to Chinese investments in Australia which have become increasingly prevalent over the past decade. High levels of such investment have also come with a corresponding level of unease in some quarters highlighted recently by a furore over the $506 million 99 year lease of Darwin Port by a Chinese company. What is clearly the case however, is that investors and those representing them will require new and urgent, risk management approaches to ensure compliance with the proposed legislation as this crouching tiger legislation will shortly have teeth. Simon Harrison is an international lawyer and Chairperson of the Australia Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry (AACCI) Queensland, Regional Director of Pamada and a National Director OF AACCI. He is also an Honorary Consul for Tunisia in Australia

‘I’ll see you in court’: Four things to consider before litigating Hadi Boustani As a business owner, you are faced with a number of issues every day that seriously tests your resolve. Disputes with your customers or suppliers can often ‘snowball’, and, unless you act quickly to resolve the problem, you may find yourself in a situation in which your business is at risk of suffering a significant loss. When something goes wrong that causes a loss it is easy for emotion to take the place of reason and for you to immediately want to do anything to take the party responsible to the proverbial cleaners! The Courts do provide an invaluable framework for disputes to be resolved. However, in the commercial environment, a decision to litigate should be measured, considered, and reconsidered. Litigation can be a long and drawn out process that can involve the expenditure of significant fees with no guarantee of recovering your money. In certain circumstances litigating is the best option, however, that decision should not be made without considering at least the following four key criteria: 1. Have you tried to negotiate? Clients often come to me with a commercial dispute and they are ‘out for blood’. They are angry, emotional and in many cases feel wronged by the other party. The first question I ask them is “have you tried to negotiate the dispute?” The response is often along the lines that one, or in most cases both, of the parties, are too stubborn to compromise their respective positions. This is where a reasonable, ethical legal practitioner can add real value. Sometimes it’s not the terms of an offer that a party objects to, rather it is the messenger that obstructs a reasonable settlement. In my APRIL 2018 / ISSUE 149

experience, I have often found that a little ‘prompt’ from the lawyers will encourage the other party to come to the table. Then, if an agreement can be reached, it can be properly documented in writing with the correct terms. It is always best to consult an experienced legal practitioner before taking any steps to resolve a dispute. A legal practitioner can help you see the dispute from an objective perspective in terms of how far you want to take the matter. 2. Debt v Return At the outset of a dispute, it is easy to say you are willing to spend “thousands of dollars” in recovering a debt. When emotions are running high, principles seem to be all that matters. But as the old adage goes ‘principles can be expensive’. Before beginning the Court process you should: 1. Sit down with a legal practitioner and gain a better understanding of the possible cost of the Court process; 2. Map out how much you are willing to spend on litigation; and 3. Whether that expenditure is comparable to the amount you are seeking to recover. If the figures don’t add up then you should

either consider settling early for a compromise amount or in certain cases whether the debt is not significant, possibly even writing it off. 3. Can you afford to spend the time? Aside from looking at the dollars and cents you should also consider the amount of time that needs to be dedicated to litigating a matter. Business owners and their staff will be required to spend considerable time with their lawyers communicating instructions, checking progress and discussing strategy. This all takes away from productivity that is dedicated to the business. Often business owners don’t allocate value to this expenditure before commencing proceedings. The result is a massive shock when your staff are spending more time in your lawyer’s office than on your own. 4. Judgment does not always mean a cheque When a client comes to me and wants to commence proceedings, one of the first things I consider is whether, if successful, I can turn a judgment into a cheque. Regardless of whether you have a certificate of judgment; if you are forced to wind

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up a company or bankrupt an individual you run the risk of obtaining a lesser sum than the judgment debt, or not receiving anything, all the while increasing the expenditure of your legal costs. There are certain mechanisms the Courts have made available to a litigant to protect them from this occurring, but serious consideration should be given to a party’s financial position before commencing proceedings against them. Where does that leave you? Ultimately this list is not exhaustive and every matter has its own specific issues that need to be considered and dealt with. Nevertheless, the decision to litigate should be given the same amount of scrutiny as a decision to invest in any other commodity. Legal practitioners are able to help you in planning the best route possible in recovering a debt or dealing with a dispute - one that will increase your chances of spending the least amount of money and time, and ultimately getting the best return on your investment. Hadi Boustani is an Accredited Specialist in Commercial Litigation and Senior Associate with Coleman Greig Lawyers.

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BOOMERANG 5-7

COMMUNITY 8 - 12

AUSTRALIA 13 - 15

CENTREFOLD 16 - 17

Zachariah Krayem: Bankstown Word search: Wild Animals Sports Little Athletics Club

Zachariah Krayem was featured on the Bankstown Sports Little Athletics Club Facebook page. Krayem participated in the Under 12 Boys 1500m race and completed it in 5 minutes

and 1 second. He beat the 4-year-old record by 10 seconds previously held by Praneesh Chand. This qualifies Krayem for the state record and also a brand new ground record.

Osman Faruqi: The Drum

HADITHS ON SOCIAL MEDIA

2. IF YOU DON’T HAVE A NYT HING GOOD T O SAY... He who believes in Allah and the Last Day must either speak good or remain silent (Muslim).

News and Politics Editor at Junkee and Co-host of BlackchatFBi, Osman Faruqi appeared on The Drum slamming Peter Dutton for picking and choosing which refugees to help, in reference to the white South African farmers. “It does seem quite clear, that the main difference between with this group of potential refugees and every other group of potential refugees is the colour of their skin” said Faruqi. “He’s basically said that this is a group of

people that warrants more support from the Australian Government and a fast-tracked visa process than any other refugee anywhere else in the world.” “We have refugees that we’ve locked up who are languishing on Manus island, and not only does the Government not want to let them here, they are trying to get them as far away as possible from Australia as possible. We have done a deal with the US to send them there.”

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This is a foundational principle for social media. It is hard because the entire purpose of social media is sharing and discussion. We often come to regret things we post, realizing too late that silence would have better served us.

W W W. F I Q H O N S O C I A L M E D I A . C O M ISSUE 149 / APRIL 2018

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UMMAH 23 - 24

TOP 7 Muslim Memes

EDUCATION 25 - 27

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6 accurate tweets Muslims will understand about beards

AMUST

Top 8 apps to prepare you for Ramadan

4. Ramadan Legacy

AMUST Media Ramadan is coming. One of the ways to get on top of it is to integrate technology with spirituality to achieve the best practice of looking after yourself mentally, physically and religiously. App makers are finally tapping into the billion-dollar Muslim lifestyle industry. Much like how supermarkets have recently begun rolling down the “Ramadan Kareem” banners in aisles in Woolworths, now when you scroll down your “Muslim” search on the app store, you’ll see that the market is saturated with handy apps – for prayer times and directions, Qur’an exploring and even directories of halal restaurants. So which ones are worth downloading to up your spiritual game for the holy month?

1. al Quran

By Sayed Samed If you come across people reading their pocket Qur’an on the tube in the next few weeks, it’s because Muslims believe that their holy book was revealed to the prophet Muhammad during Ramadan, and it’s customto spend more time reading it this month. So Qur’an apps such as al Quran are pretty handy: it’s possible to read the entire text, its translations and listen to commentary in various languages – important for a global audience. The app also allows users to search the text, and listen to verse-byverse recitation.

2. Zabihah

By Halalfire Do you feel like tucking into hummus and falafel to break your fast, or are you craving fried chicken? Well, this is a useful guide for halal food-seekers and the app geo-locates your closest restaurants, markets and mosques. With this app, foodies are able to read and write reviews, review the halal authenticity, view opening times, prices and even prayer accommodations. It features 75,000 user reviews of over 20,000 restaurants, according to it’s website.

3. Muslim Pro

By Bitsmedia Pte Ltd You’re on the road and the sun is going down, but you’re not sure when exactly you’re meant to bite into the date in your hand? For that, Muslim Pro is a user-friendly app with large icons, which will notify those observing Ramadan accurate prayer times. Users can choose whether they want visual or audio notifications – and even have the call to prayer announcing it is time to break the fast.

By Ramadan Legacy Limited A new app that has launched in time for this year’s Ramadan, and provides users with an interactive timeline of their Ramadan achievements throughout the month. It has a clean design and works by asking you what your personal goals are for the month, and encourages you to achieve them through inspirational reminders. There is also a social element, and users are able to share their Ramadan photos or reflections with other users across the globe in their live stream.

5. Good Habits

By Good To Hear There is a Muslim saying that regular constant deeds – however little – are better than ones you may do once in a while. Yet this app will be useful for anyone, during and outside of Ramadan if you want to set a reminder for yourself to do the little tasks. It doesn’t offer pre-determined checklists and it’s easy to add the habit you want to pick up: by clicking the “+” symbol on the top right and adding the habit name, time, colour-code and days you want to carry out the habit.

6. Calorie Counter & Diet Tracker

By MyFitnessPal.com Although scientists are uncovering evidence that fasting – in a balanced way – can have health benefits, during Ramadan it can sometimes be tempting to feast on a spread of delicious food and finger-licking wholesome oily snacks – undoing all the earlier self-restraint. So watching the calories with a tracking app may be handy.

7. SleepBot

Especially handy when the days are long and nights are short – this app uses the sensors in your phone to track your movement and the noise you make at night to work out the quality of the sleep you’re getting. It also allows users to set smart alarms for a time when you’ll wake up feeling fresh-faced and naturally rested. Although a log of how sleep-deprived you are while praying and eating in the early hours may not be what you want to see.

8. InstaDeen Lite

By Adiman This is one for the social media philosophers: now you’ll be able to share photos with Quranic verses or Islamic sayings embossed on it. • Have we missed any useful Ramadan-happy apps? Share your suggestions below. This article was originally published on www.theguardian.com.

APRIL 2018 / ISSUE 149

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ISSUE 149 / APRIL 2018