RAMADAN SPECIAL ISSUE
AMUST
AUSTRALASIAN MUSLIM TIMES
www.amust.com.au ISSUE # 150
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Multicultural News & Views
MAY 2018; RAMADAN 1439
Muslim Youth Have Spoken: Be the Change
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The Beauty of Faith and Art
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“Beware of Despot” Sydney protests against Sheikh Hasina Zia Ahmad
Sydney protests at Darling Harbour against Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh PM for gross violations of human rights in Bangladesh.
Massive protests were organised in Sydney on Friday 27 and Saturday 28 April 2018 against the visiting Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina Wazed drawing attention to her primary role in continuing with human rights violations perpetrated in the country. She has been holding power for the last 10 years without fair elections combined with the extra-judicial killing of opposition leaders and activists, arresting and torturing them, enforced disappearances, political prosecution, widespread corruption, institutional extortion and shutting down of all channels of freedom of speech. The atrocities committed by her authoritarian regime for the last decade has been well documented in various reports of international organizations such as UNHCR, Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and others. Ironically, Sheikh Hasina was given the Leadership Award at the 2018 Global Summit of Women, organised annually by the Washington based NGO of the same name, held in Sydney from 26-28 April and attended by more than 1200 participants from 65 countries. The demonstration on Friday 27 April was held in front of the summit venue, ICC at Darling Harbour where the protesters held placards of photos of those killed or have disappeared accusing Sheikh Hasina of... Continued on page 4
StoreLocal opens Musallah RAMADAN SPECIAL ISSUE
Shannen Louise The StoreLocal team Campbellfield, Victoria announced their first Prayer room in the StoreLocal chain, opening in perfect time for Ramadan. “We’re an Australian company that believe in catering to the needs of our local communities and really engaging in the people that surround our company.” Immersed with exquisite prayer rugs and beautiful imagery in a peaceful environment, this space will bring customers and local community together, to add convenience and cater to important needs of all cul-
tures and people from all different walks of life. “We love engulfing ourselves in the diverse community of Campbellfield, and focusing on our local community is our key, keeping our customers happy is what differentiates us and makes us extremely proud to be part of the community as ourselves and as a company. We understand the needs of our community and we aim to cater for everyone to make their lives more convenient in a city that’s ever changing.” The intention behind establishing a welcoming and friendly environment was not only to customers, but even extends out to the wider community. Buy one month, get the second month for $1! Ending 31st of July. Terms and conditions apply.
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“Our Prayer room is open to everyone, not just the people who use our storage facilities. Some people run their companies out of their storage spaces, when coming in and out all day, people may not have the time or right space to perform prayers, this is where our concept and idea evolved from. Making times convenient for people in the space they’re in.” StoreLocal Campbellfield, VIC are offering a promotion, buy one month, get the second month for $1! Ending 31st of July, terms and conditions apply.
Ramadan 1439/2018 Zia Ahmad
The Islamic fasting month of Ramadan this year will be starting towards the middle of May and ending towards the middle of June with the festive celebration of Eidul-Fitr. Fasting during the month of Ramadan is one of the pillars of Islam and obligatory on all adult Muslims with some exceptions such as for the sick, the elderly and the traveller. During this month which lasts 29 or 30 days, Muslims fast during the day-light hours from dawn to sunset abstaining from eating, drinking, smoking and sex. Fasting is intended to bring about God-conciousness, self-control, inculcate moderate eating habits and develop empathy for those who are less fortunate to have enough to eat. Iftar or ‘the meal for breaking the fast’ at sunset is shared between family and friends. Muslims open their homes to share Iftar with their friends and neighbours of all faiths and no faith. Greetings of “Ramadan Mubarak” and “Ramadan Kareem” are exchanged during this month, wishing for a “blessed” and generous Ramadan. Islamic dates are subject to the visibility of the new moon and variation can take place if this sighting of the crescent is done globally, regionally or locally. The following possible scenarios can occur this year: 1. Global Sighting (or prediction of sighting) Ramadan (30 days) starting Wednesday 16 May and ending Thursday 14 June with Eid on Friday 15 June. 2. Regional Sighting: Ramadan (29 days) starting Thursday 17 May and ending Thursday 14 June with Eid on Friday 15 June. 3. Local Sighting: Ramadan (30 days) starting Thursday 17 May and ending Friday 15 June with Eid on Saturday 16 June.
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NEWS Kashmir: BJP under fire over support for rapists AMUST
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“Beware of Despot” Sydney protests against Sheikh Hasina
Sheikh Hasina Wazed, Prime Minister of Bangladesh.
Zia Ahmad The abduction, gang rape and murder of an 8-year old Muslim girl in the Indian state of Jammu & Kashmir and support by Hindu nationalists for eight Hindu men charged for the crime has shocked all Indians sparking protests all over the country. The young girl, Asifa who belonged to a Muslim nomadic community, the Bakarwals, was abducted while grazing horses in a meadow in the town of Kathua, taken to a Hindu temple, where she was drugged and raped for five days by eight different men including a retired government official and a police officer. Although the crime was committed in January, it was only towards mid April when the right-wing Hindu activists, as well as some lawyers affiliated with the ruling BJP, attempted to forcibly block Police from filing charges against the arrested men, that the case drew attention. A number of officials of India’s governing Hindu nationalist BJP also rushed to the suspects’ defence, organising marches against their detention. Another case that has led to the BJP government coming under fire is when, Kuldeep Singh Sengar, a BJP MLA in Uttar Pradesh was arrested earlier in April while police investigated claims he raped a 15 year old girl in June 2017. A week after the attack, the girl was abducted and repeatedly raped by others known to the BJP politician. Her case was highlighted after she attempted suicide in front of her rapist’s residence. Women’s rights activists and students, already angered by what they called police
AUSTRALIA 16 - 19
Asifa, 8, abducted, gang raped and murdered in the Indian state of Jammu & Kashmir. reluctance to investigate the BJP politician over the rape of the girl as well as the support to rapists of Asifa by BJP officials have taken to the streets in New Delhi and many other cities all over India. The Chairman of Delhi’s Commission for Women (DCW), Swati Maliwal is staging an indefinite hunger strike to push for stricter laws for rape in India, including the death penalty, after these horrific attacks on young girls. Activists have rallied thousands of supporters, both men, and women irrespective of their religious affiliation calling for stricter laws, speedy arrests and heavy punishments for rapists. Many protesters have expressed outrage at BJP for siding with the accused in the Asifa’s case.
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Continued from page 1 ... direct involvement in order to suppress any opposition and cling to power. The protests on Saturday were held at Chifley Square in front of the Sofitel Hotel where Sheikh Hasina was attending a meeting and had to leave from the back door in order to avoid any confrontation with the demonstrators. The protesters with banners demanded freedom for the opposition leader and former Prime Minister of Bangladesh Khaleda Zia, 76 who was sentenced to prison in February this year in a fabricated and politically motivated case. Political observers view it as deplorable action by Sheikh Hasina to keep Khaleda Zia out of the upcoming election contest. “We do not believe Sheikh Hasina is really a worthy guest in this noble event for women empowerment. She has blood on her hand and she has violated the dignity of thousands of her country-people, men and women alike,” said one of the protesters. Another protester added, “ Sheikh Hasina is a fascist dictator and is not welcome in Australia, land of democracy, human rights and multiculturalism.”
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A number of opposition leaders especially those belonging to Jamaat Islami, Bangladesh have been tried by the special Bangladesh War Crimes Tribunal set up by Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government for alleged crimes against humanity back in 1971. The government has been criticised for using the tribunal to persecute opposition leaders and a number of human rights groups including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have issued statements against the tribunal for its failure to adhere to due process of the law. The defence has called it a politically motivated witch hunt. The veteran Islamic leader Professor Ghulam Azam who fought for the restoration of Bengali as a state language and jointly formed Pakistan Democratic Alliance against Pakistani military dictatorships together with Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was imprisoned by Sheikh Hasina’s government and died in prison at the age of 91 in 2014. A number of other leaders have been tried and hanged by Sheikh Hasina’s regime while others have either been imprisoned or succumbed to forced disappearances.
ISSUE 150 / MAY 2018
LIFESTYLE 22 - 26
UMMAH 27 - 30
EDUCATION 31 - 33
BUSINESS 34 - 35
BOOMERANG
SOCIAL 36 - 39
Prioritising ‘needs’ before ‘wishes’ Time is always the most expensive commodity at our disposal and therefore we need to prioritise tasks we need to do and spend time in a most efficient way. We are always faced with the dilemma of choosing between tasks that essentially need to be done and the tasks we wish to do. We have the tendency to succumb to our wishes at the expense of our needs or responsibilities. As an example say we need to complete an assignment by a certain deadline and allocate time to complete it. But we procrastinate and during that allocated time get distracted by doing tasks we wish to do such as chatting on social media, watching videos on WhatsApp or gossiping on fighting and embarking on disciplined life and train ourselves in the most proper use of phone unnecessarily. time during the next 11 months. If we analyse ourselves we will The best way to do this is to prifind that we fail to complete oritise our daily tasks and make some essential tasks due to a timetable and strictly follow indiscipline, wasting our it. time on activities that are Just like we pray exactly not that important. on time, stop eating exactThis is where the trainZia Ahmad ly on time, break our fast ing during Ramadan can exactly on time, similarly help. Assalamu we should perform all other Ramadan is the blessed Alaikum tasks exactly on time in our month of fasting, a month day to day living. of rigorous training for us Greetings Don’t get distracted by the to develop mental control of Peace ping sound on your smartphone, over our bodily desires. answering to emails can wait, reply Ramadan is a month of striving,
EDITORIAL
AMUST ISSUE # 150 FRIDAY 4 MAY 2018 17 SHA’ABAN 1439 News
The Australasian Muslim Times is performing an excellent service for the Muslim community for years. All aspects of it are maintaining a professional standard. Salahuddin Ahmed Sydney
Re: #Ubelong: Campaign for inclusiveness
The only mistake in all this was to let xenophobic bigots like Dutton and his mates anywhere near government let alone give him the power and responsibility of a minister. Gary Dargan
Re: Justice, where art thou?
Interesting article and opinions. There is one thing highlighted in the article and that is the distinction between justice and the law. Justice may be blind balanced and swift but it is administered by the law which is anything but. I have served as a juror in a drugs case where the evidence against the accused seemed overwhelming until the defence barrister not only exposed sloppy police work but was able to introduce evidence from a royal commission into police corruption that so tainted police evidence that a not guilty verdict was the only course open. I have also worked on forensic samples which were accompanied by the police version of events in the hope that we would confirm them. We always adopted a policy of putting that aside and interpreting our results before looking at the police claims and testing them against the evidence. This resulted in both guilty verdicts and people being exonerated. In one extremely close call a suspect was nearly charged with murder until we re-analysed evidence and faulty results were disclosed. CSI doesn’t always get it right. Not even DNA evidence is infallible. I have supported a victim of crime who instead of being supported by the law was charged and found guilty of the very crime committed against them and to drive the injustice deeper the prosecution used the testimony of the perpetrators to do it. Why was the prosecution successful? because the cost of a proper and effective defense was too great and the cheaper alternative was a guilty plea to a minor offence and release on a good behaviour MAY 2018 / ISSUE 150
and an understanding magistrate meant the person did not have a conviction recorded against their name despite the prosecutor aggressively pushing for an innocent notch on his gun. Plus of course we have all seen the disgusting spectacle of high profile cases being tried in a distinctly biased and partisan media. Justice may be blind, balanced and swift but the law at times can be one-sided, loaded and cumbersome. In other words a complete ass and we would do well to remember that. Gary Dargan
Re: Changing attitudes Combatants and Civilians
to
These figures are also worthy of note in this context: The claim that military attacks upon civilians are sometimes justified is accepted by only 3% of Egyptians and Qataris, 6% of Tunisians and 7% of Kuwaitis, 8% of Iraqis and Malaysians, 9% of Russians and Germans, 10% in the Palestinian Territories and Saudi Arabia, 12% in Indonesia and 16% in Turkey. However 25% of Australians accept that military attacks upon civilians are sometimes justified, along with 33% in the UK and 37% in New Zealand. Israel with 43% and the USA with 49% are the most accepting of these attacks on civilians. Attacks on civilians rejected by Muslim societies Gallup “Views on Violence” 2011 Bilal Cleland
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Australia to WhatsApp message can wait, the video sent by your friend does not need to be watched straight away. You can allocate some time for these as well at a suitable time. Abstaining from eating and drinking does not mean that we go slow. As a matter of fact, we have to be more active, alert and efficient during the month of fasting. After the training period of Ramadan, we can not go back to our old ways. We have to maintain the NEW PERSON that we have created during Ramadan for the rest of the year. Warning: Beware of killing time on social media. Please.
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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.
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ISSUE 150 / MAY 2018
LIFESTYLE 22 - 26
UMMAH 27 - 30
EDUCATION 31 - 33
BUSINESS 34 - 35
BOOMERANG
SOCIAL 36 - 39
AMUST
Wealth and Power Leads to Injustice Bilal Cleland Many years ago, as I was reading material on the Islamic approach to issues of equity and justice, I came across Maududi’s 1939 pamphlet “The Political Theory of Islam.” His description of those who sought godhood made the notion of monotheism real. Written no doubt with European imperialism and fascism and its ludicrous leaders in mind, he wrote: “The desire for godhood can take root only in the head of man. It is only man’s excessive lust for power and desire for exploitation that prompts him to impose himself on other people as a god and compel their obedience, force them to bow down before him in reverential awe and make them instruments for his self aggran-
disement. The pleasure of posing as a god is more delicious than anything that man has yet been able to discover.” The world is today ruled by those who use the power of their wealth to force compliance, often claiming to be expressing the will of the people. A dangerous imbalance is developing in our nation and our world. “More than $8 of every $10 of wealth created last year went to the richest 1%.” [22 January 2018, CNN Money] Oxfam International estimates that the bottom 50% of the world’s population saw no increase in wealth at all. The executive director argued that the people who “make our clothes, assemble our phones and grow our food” are being exploited in order to enrich corporations and the super wealthy. These controllers of wealth are shareholders in the largest corporations, and they pay little or no taxation, due to their undue influ-
ence over political institutions. ABC journalist Emma Alberici, dared to expose that about 380, or one in five, of Australia’s largest companies have paid no tax for at least the past three years. [16 Feb 2018, ABC] Her analysis was pulled from the ABC website and ‘amended’ on the grounds it did not meet the broadcaster’s editorial standards. Apparently the Prime Minister, his Communications Minister and Treasurer had all complained to the ABC about the article on the grounds that it was neither fair nor accurate nor balanced. [20 February 2018, Independent Australia] Freedom of expression, often touted to facilitate the vilification of vulnerable communities by the elite, is not tolerated when it hits at the privileges of the 1%. The poor are neglected While wealth flows to the super-rich, the needs of the disadvantaged are being ig-
Saudis neglect the Ummah while embracing US-Israel Dr Daud Batchelor What a brilliant US-Israeli strategy! As Saudi Arabia is now ruled by an aged monarch and young Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman, get Saudis to buy billions of dollars of US weapons, provide skewed intelligence suggesting they risk Iranian attack, and promote an alliance with Israel. Then fire them up on the millennia-long feud between Persians and Arabs and the Shia-Sunni divide. You can then engender a crushing war with Iran that obliterates both leading states. This outcome will remove impediments for expansion of Greater Israel to borders of a biblical kingdom extending from the Nile to Euphrates Rivers. Surely a no-brainer success strategy. Except Islam doesn’t support Saudis to execute it. MBS has threatened that Saudis may at- Former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad shakes hands with former tack Iran within 10-15 years. Saudi King Abdullah who invited him to a special 2012 ‘solidarity’ conferIn 2017 the US announced an incredible ence to “unify the ranks” of Muslims. US$110 billion arms deal with Saudis. Trump is setting up a War cabinet. Israel all together by Allah’s Rope and be not diGeneral Eisenkot said Israel is ready to Shamir in his seminal book, Pardes, cited vided.”(3:103); and “if two parties of beexchange intelligence with Saudis. MBS recently visited the US where he ‘Mammonites’ as wealthy western busi- lievers quarrel, make peace between them.” met President Trump and reportedly Israeli nessmen and Zionist allies. Trump fits this (49:9). We are asked to help oppressed Palestinilobby, AIPAC, other Jewish organisations mould. Vice-president Pence represents the ans, as God questions, “why should you not that support illegal settlements and fight the BDS movement, and Zionists Michael powerful US Christian Zionists. Trump fight in Allah’s cause and of those who, beappointed the war hawks CIA Director ing weak, are ill-treated? (4:75) Bloom and Rupert Murdoch. Palestinians and needy Muslims deserve Two Saudi princes recently told a senior Mike Pompeo and national security adviser, John Bolton. Richard Patterson believes greater support from Saudis rather than Israeli “you are not our enemy anymore”. With open Saudi friendship with Israel, Pompeo’s and Bolton’s dearest wish is that wasting billions to attack Iran. “America bombs Iran.” Saudi Arabia should terminate close relaUS is no longer reticent As soon as the North tions with Israel, and realise that to resolve in recognising Jerusalem Korean missile crisis is Middle Eastern problems actively seeks an as Israel’s capital, while Palestinians and settled, it is anticipated Islamic-inspired negotiated settlement with Israel becomes heedless needy Muslims that Trump will abrogate Iran. in shooting dead peacethe Iran nuclear deal and Turkey and Indonesia should act as deserve greater ful Palestinian protestors seek to attack Iran with peace-makers and support establishing Syron the Gazan border. support from Saudis Saudi involvement be- ian and Yemeni Sunni-Shia coalitions workSaudi Arabia seems fore 2020. ing for national reconciliation. justified with concerns Iran consistently confronts Israel. If it is Australian Muslim leaders should encouron the rise of a sectarian Shi’a front comprising elements from Iraq, Syria and Leba- crushed then only Turkey remains to pro- age Saudi diplomats to influence their leadtect Muslims in the Middle East, and future ers towards positive Islamic decision-maknon on its northern borders. Problems, however, must be resolved Muslim weakness could trigger widespread ing in order to benefit the Ummah. within Islam. Saudis should be more con- Rohingiyya-style ethnic cleansing. In political terms, Islam does not permit Dr Daud Batchelor, holds an MA in Islamic cerned about and respect Muslim Ummatic believers to take unbelievers for friends in and Other Civilisations and a Diploma in needs not just national issues. Leading Zionist Daniel Pipes, writing in preference to believers, as the Qur’an warns Islamic Studies from the International IsThe Australian suggested that a decisive de- “do you desire to give Allah manifest proof lamic University Malaysia, PhD from University of Malaya, MSc from the University feat for the Palestinians “is vital for peace”. against yourselves?” (2:144). Further, God Almighty orders “hold fast of London. He clearly anticipates a Middle Eastern War. Email: daud.batchelor@gmail.com
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nored. Homelessness is reaching never before seen heights in this country with about 100,000 without shelter each night. The stagnation of wages and the maintenance of negative gearing for housing, has resulted in us having one of the lowest rates of home ownership among rich countries. Welfare spending rises as home ownership declines, but that too is under conservative attack. Now poverty is affecting our children. Of the three million people living in poverty in Australia, 731,000 are children. One in six (17.4%) of children under the age of 15 lives in poverty. [9 Mar 2018, ACOSS] Professor Castles back in 2001, concluded in A Farewell to Australia’s Welfare State: “As one who views the role of the state in extending the economic and social protection afforded to its citizens as the key to the social progress of Western society in the twentieth century, it is, perhaps, the right time to be saying farewell to Australia’s welfare state.” [Jan/Feb 2001, Eureka Street, Vol. 11 number 1 ] Maududi wrote in 1939: “…the root cause of evil and mischief in the world is the domination of man over man, be it direct or indirect. This was the origin of all troubles and even today this remains the main source of all the plentiful vices which have brought untold misery on the suffering masses all the world over.” Islam came as a mercy to the world. Injustice and artificially induced poverty is surely a matter for our community. I am used to, when I hear a khutba in a language I can understand, to hearing about details of ritual and religiosity rather than the issues of justice and mercy. Why? Bilal Cleland is a keen reader, a prolific writer and a regular columnist of AMUST based in Melbourne.
Geraniums have colours and shine Fazlul Huq Geraniums are lacked in fragrance but are so gained in colour and shine, As the ones in endless red would remain so unchanged for month after month, So you would see the honeybees make dive and rise to collect the nectar, While the may bushes and the kiwi vines have finished the show and tell months ago, And so have the azaleas and the orchids, The chrysanthemums and the daffodils, The gardenia and the frangipani, The jasmine and the tulips, The wattle and the jacaranda, The hydrangeas and the bottle brush, The red gum and the bluebell, The desert rose and the blue gum, The kangaroo paw and birds nest, The carnival and the compacta, The dancing queen and the early bird, The frosted fire and jubilee crown, The laureolum and madonna, The moonlight and the drumstick, Safari sunset and sweet sixteen, and so many more. 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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ANZAC Day: The inevitability of war Shifa Mustafa “Wilt Thou place therein one who will make mischief and shed blood?” That was the question asked by the Angels when Allah told them of His plan to create man. Today as we look about us at all the misery and bloodshed in this world it may be tempting to agree with their questioning. Indeed, many in this world even question the existence of God because of the pain and suffering, the rivers of blood, the deaths and displacement of humanity today. The Earth itself is groaning as the deeds of men continue to destroy. Yet, in the midst of all of this the answer comes to us, as given by God to the Angels: “I know that which ye know not!” [1] Men and War So many reasons have been given to uphold wars of aggression – always accompanied by propaganda, and hidden objectives. Obviously for every war of aggression there has to be an opposing or defending force, otherwise humanity would be enslaved. The saddest thing about wars of aggression is as earlier written: “Truth has to be distorted in order to make it acceptable to kill those who might otherwise be looked upon as human, if not brothers.” As for young people, they are mere pawns in the game “who respond with their hearts and lives, knowing precious little of truth, or the very real politics…” [2] However, there are no real victors in war. The innocent who are part of the collateral damage; the surviving soldiers on both sides; the loved ones left behind. All suffer whether physically or emotionally. Some-
times in the intensity of war we forget to look into their faces. In 1988 a man and his wife came into my husband’s restaurant when I happened to be there. There was some soft Arabic music playing and they seemed to be enjoying the meal when the man beckoned to me and apologised profusely and tearfully for his actions as an Israeli soldier stationed in Lebanon. All I could feel was pain – pain for this broken puppet of war sitting in front of me, and pain for those who had suffered at his hands. My heart reached out to them both as they hugged me before leaving. As for the Manipulators and Instigators of war: they may seem to grow fat and to flourish, but their time is coming. The Case for War We are reminded that Allah created this world for “Just ends” so that aggression; seizure of land and possessions in defiance of right; oppression, and indeed to protect worship, all make the case for war of defence. “If Allah had not checked one set of people by means of another, there would surely have been pulled down monasteries, churches, synagogues and mosques in which the name of Allah is commemorated in abundant measure.” [3] Please note that all monotheistic faiths are mentioned here… therefore those who attack any places of worship are not of the people of God even if professing to be so. Also of note that Allah uses many people to fight against evil, it is not the sole prerogative of Muslims. Recognition of War Dead On ANZAC Day, the questions are always asked: “Should we celebrate ANZAC Day? Will that mean we are upholding War? Should Muslims recognize this day?” As an Australian-born Muslim my answers are simply this: This is not a day to
uphold war, it is a day to remember the lives of those ordinary men and women of extraordinary courage who left behind their homes and loved ones to stand against what were perceived to be the enemies of peace and homeland. They did not know whether they would ever return. Many did not. The tears of their departures continue on today in this era of conflict. I do not profess to speak for the majority of Muslims it is true, although I’m glad to say that our Islamic schools recognize and respect this day. As for me, I shall remember the dead, and respect the suffering of those whom they left behind. I shall pray for all people now in war zones. I shall pray for the living on this coming Anzac Day that the circle of war and kill-
ing may be stopped and that Authors of such conflicts may be thwarted. Somehow, I believe that mankind’s final and most critical testing comes with war. It is said that there are no atheists in the fox holes [trenches]. Perhaps that is true regardless of the changing ways of war. But again, it is Allah alone Who understands all things and we are reminded, “I know that which ye know not!” References [1] Qur’an 2: 30. ( NB Complete text 2:30-34 worthy of in-depth study) [2] In Quest of Truth from Deception to Deliverance, Shifa L Mustapha, p.9 [3] Qur’an 22.40
Rabia Rasool
longing. Standing in the thick of the crowd on Anzac Day at 4 in the morning is eye-opening, you immediately feel connected by this strong sense, a warmth resonates with you, a sense of joy and belonging, belonging to a group of strangers standing in silence, with only the sound of the bugle cutting through and reminding you of the message. You feel the compassion of strangers around you, ready to support you if things go pear-shaped. This is the heart of the Australian spirit, the core of the Australian identity, the Australian community, that pulls you towards it. This community spirit means that the young and old can stand, side by side, arm in arm, proud to represent our country. We commemorate those who we have lost and recognise what they fought for, they fought for Australia and it’s identity. However, we also look toward the future as the next generation take their baton and run their part of the relay. The next generation of servicemen and women are stepping in and leading Australia, but not forgetting the legacy that those before them left behind. Welcome to Australia, a nation bound by grief and bloodshed, but above all spirit and community. As Australians, we are proud of the nation we are and spread a joyous spirit around to form brother and sisterhoods that form our legacy, the foundation of our identity. We are all connected with one another, by mistake or by intention and we form a brethren of people who come together to celebrate our past, present and our future on a day known as Anzac Day. Lest we forget.
ANZAC Day: A time for reflection This year, 2018, marks 100 years since the end of World War 1. After four years of bloodshed and hundreds of thousands of lives lost, World War 1 came to a close. In 1914, when the war had just started, Australia was barely a nation. A decade old, we were lead to war, not understanding the harm that it would cause us. At that point, Australia didn’t have an identity, as far as anyone was concerned, it was a colony on the other side of the world. Throughout WW1, we learned as a nation what it was to have an identity, something that collectively defined us as people and while times have changed, the message is still bound in the shores of our nation girt by sea. It lays in our beaches, where the sand touches the water. It flies through the sky with our kookaburra in tow. It is smelt in the eucalyptus leaves and the minty air of the bush. It is seen through the smiles on our faces and the tears that stain our cheeks. The brotherhood. the spirit and the sense of pride binds all these soldiers, cadets, corporals, colonels, sergeants and retired service men and women and us, as people, as a nation together. On Anzac Day we gather as a community to remember those who came before us, with faces lit up with smiles, for we are proud of our ancestors and appreciate all that they have given us. As the next generation take the reigns, we look forward where they will lead us. For we are a community full of warmth and be-
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Shifa Mustapha is writer and community worker based in Brisbane.
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Rabia Rasool is a year 11 student at Mount St Benedict College. ISSUE 150 / MAY 2018
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Muslim Youth Have Spoken: Be The Change Faseeha Hashmi
Medical student, Jumaana Abdu was one of the guest speakers at the event inspiring the youth with her experiences and lessons.
Four inspiring speakers Sarah El-Assaad, Jumaana Abdu, Dawud Ilham and Deng Adut (right to left). Yet, more importantly, the conference aimed to inspire and guide young people to empower their greater local communities. “I was very impressed by the intelligence, passion and the sophistication of Australian Muslim youth who attended the youth summit. We have a great future as Australian Muslims in this country.” said A/Prof Ozalp. Often being misrepresented in the mainstream media, young Muslims said they often did not have the opportunity to have their voices heard. To counter this, social media was identified as is an instrument for any young person to feel seen and heard. It also provides an incredible opportunity for young people to work on the passion project and instigate change. Though, young Muslims want to express themselves just like any other person, however, according to the future lawyer-in-training, Mikail Mermi suggested young people to be careful when doing so. “Know your boundaries” advised Mikail. Sadly, the fear of being ‘labeled as too Muslim’ was also identified to be a hindrance for many young people. Indeed, the vast amount of negative media coverage on Muslims does much to reduce a young persons self-esteem. For many young
people that recognise with a faith, practicing ones faith can be difficult to be how you are. Ultimately, practicing your religion should not hold you back. Indeed, it was the participant Lina Ali that eloquently articulated this point to her peers. “We shouldn’t shy away because, we are Muslim, and we should be proud” implored Lina. The inspiring speaker Deng Adut spoke about his experiences of being a child soldier in the South Sudanese civil war to a successful Australian lawyer. Deng is a selfmade man, today he holds a Master’s Degree in Law and practices as a criminal lawyer. Having faced grave challenges in his life, he continues to stay strong and achieve huge professional and academic success. Having a highly-acclaimed biography, ‘Songs of a War Boy’. Today Deng is a partner in his own law firm, AC Law Group. When asked by an audience member, he bravely said that he still suffers from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). “PTSD lives with you, your whole life. But I am blessed, I am alive.” he said. He held himself firm, saying that despite his hardships, he puts himself to work in order to make a positive change in the world. “I try to deflect pain and count my wins. I don’t make excuses”, he said.
“We shouldn’t
shy away because, we are Muslim, and we should be proud.
Faseeha Hashmi holds a Master of International Relations from the University of Melbourne, with an interest in politics and human security.
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It seems like there is a shift in the air, a turn in the tide, maybe a groundswell is coming. Whatever it is, young Australian Muslims seem to be on their feet. They are not waiting for good leadership to happen, rather they are leading the path of transformation. The 2018 National Muslim Youth Summit organised by Islamic Sciences & Research Academy Australia (ISRA) was held on Sunday 14 April in Parramatta, Sydney, brimming with over 150 bright-eyed future leaders. “Muslim youth are seldom empowered and often hindered by adults. 2018 National Muslim Youth Summit set a platform for youth to discuss issues that concern them from their perspective.” said A/Prof Mehmet Ozalp. The one day summit sought out youth community leaders between the ages of 1628 from all across Australia, to develop a leadership agenda to bring back and implement within their local communities. “The fact that the youth summit brought together Muslim youth from a diversity of ethnic backgrounds and genders but united as Australian Muslims builds intense synergy for Muslim youth and gives them the motivation to make a positive difference in the world.” said A/Prof Ozalp. The conference provided robust discussions on social, socio-political and religious viewpoints and the challenges of leadership with four inspiring speakers Sarah El-Assaad, Deng Adut, Dawud Ilham and Jumaana Abdu.
According to the Medical student, Jumaana Abdu who has worked tirelessly in the community, young people must not be discouraged by the work they do, instead, she said must learn to find their audience and be ready and willing to speak to them. “There is nobility of sowing the seeds of passion, even when you don’t eat the fruit. We mustn’t starve the generations to come of empathy, and empathy comes with knowledge” said Jumaana. Therefore, the most important thing young people should do is to stay well-informed about the world around them. Creating waves of change can be difficult she said, especially when you might wonder if you might ever see any results. Yet according to Jumaana, rather than relying on outcome or result, she advised, “let your intentions guide you.” To break up the heavy discussions, Khaled Khalafalla delighted with hilarious comical material that largely seemed to focus on his childhood and his vibrant Arab mother. He recounted that Arab mothers seem to reach higher decibels when they speak. “Am I right to say that Arab mothers seem to speak louder than any other kind of mothers?” “No, that’s just all mothers!” shouted someone from the audience, and the audience roared with laughter. Fortunately, the jokes did not stop there. As young Lina stated that we should not seek to mimic the lifestyles of Kim Kardashian, the founder of ISRA, A/Prof Mehmet Ozlap jokingly interjected that he too has been able to ‘Keep up with the Kardashians’.
Comedian Khaled Khalafalla presented at the event, entertaining the attendees.
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
Inspiring speaker Deng Adut spoke about his experiences of being a child soldier in the South Sudanese civil war to a successful Australian lawyer. MAY 2018 / ISSUE 150
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Anjum Rahman The Islamic Women’s Council of New Zealand (IWCNZ) held its annual conference in March with the theme “Fragrance of Faith” attended by more than 200 delegates from all parts of the country as well as guests from overseas. The two day conference from Friday 16 to Saturday 17 March, held in Wellington was addressed by a number of guests speakers and was also attended by representatives of Muslim organisations, government officials, politicians and community leaders. IWCNZ was formed in 1990 to bring Muslim women together, representing their concerns at a national level, and supporting them to organise locally. Annual conferences have been organised since 1990, rotating between five cities in New Zealand. This year, Wellington were the hosts. The conference began on Friday, 16th March with an open session to which dignitaries were invited – including a local city councillor, the President of the local Muslim Association (IMAN), the head of the Secret Intelligence Service and senior public servants. There were kind words of welcome by IWCNZ National Co-ordinator Dr Maysoon Salamah, and Hazim Arafeh, President of New Zealand’s peak Islamic body, FIANZ. After dinner, Sr Aliya Danzeisen spoke about selflessness, using the example of a tree which gives away its leaves, branches and trunk over the course of its life. She
used this example to talk about giving as much as we are able, while those taking should be mindful of not depleting the resources of the giver. Sr Farah Shah gave a lively talk entitled “Modesty Doesn’t Mean Ugly”, followed by Dr Salamah reminding us of the efforts of “Youth in the Prophetic Light”. We were lucky to have visitors from Malaysia attend the conference. These women shared their knowledge of Asmaa-ul Husna (the names of Allah) to appreciative participants over the course of the conference. In the early mornings, participants could partake in martial arts like bojutsu and taek-
Inaugural Open Museum Day at IMA
Amna Iqbal Islamic Museum of Australia’s held its inaugural Open Museum Day on Sunday 15 April 2018 with over 300 community members, families, supporters and friends braving the rain to participate in a range of free activities on offer! Visitors were able to participate in guided tours of museum galleries, where they were delved into the history and significance of museum exhibits and asked their friendly guides questions about Islam along the way. Our youngest visitors were kept well entertained by a free mosque building activity that saw participants decorate and construct their own model mosque to take home. Poetry performance by Boonna Mohammed, a renowned slam poetry performer from Canada, rounded the day off with audiences enthralled by his lyrical compilation reflecting on the Prophet Muhammad’s (s) character, values and way of life. Open Museum Day was part of Islamic Council of Victoria’s Open Mosque Day initiative in partnership with National Zakat Foundation (NZF). A Zakat Information Booth set up by NZF and two talks focusing on the Islamic rite of Hajj were highly appreciated by the visitors. Medina Halal Meats, Sizzle for Syria, C MAY 2018 / ISSUE 150
wondo. Saturday morning began with a workshop on the differences between Islam and culture, and how young people must negotiate the spaces between the two. This was followed by a panel discussion on “Fragrant Dreams and Visions”. Sr Anjum Rahman talked about dealing with despair and hopelessness, using references from Qur’an and Sunnah and giving practical solutions to those in difficult situations. Sr Noeleen van de Lisdonk talked about the experiences of Maori Muslims, and the struggles they face within the Muslim community to be recognised and have their needs addressed. Another sister told of an education project developed by her extended family in northern Pakistan, based on her grandfather’s vision. The final speaker spoke on professionalism, and the need for Muslim women to aspire to excellence in both religious and worldly affairs.
The afternoon was taken up with various excursions such as high tea, kayaking, rock-climbing and a walk in the city. This was followed by a health session with Dr Hanifa Koya, a medical specialist, and workshops by young Muslim women. The highlight of Sunday morning was the IWCNZ AGM, which included a review of the year’s activities and finances, and appointing the new Admin Council. This was an opportunity to recognise the contributions of Sr Danzeisen, who was stepping down. We were also addressed by Dr Eva Nisa on Muslim women in the digital age, looking at recent trends and areas of concern. Lawyer Deborah Manning spoke about security issues related to the Secret Intelligence Service and NZ Customs. All in all, it was another successful gathering with many inspiring Muslim women sharing their thoughts with us.
& M Residential Services, All Guard Pest Control & Property Solutions for hosted a popular sausage sizzle during the day. Open Museum Day was a great opportunity for the community to taste the public programs on offer at IMA, as well as visit our current visiting exhibition ‘Ways To Be Muslim’. IMA will be having another free Open Day on Sunday 6 May to launch a new exhibition ‘Our Grandmothers’ that is part of the Multicultural Museums Victoria ‘Grandmothers’ Project. Bring your grandma and family along for a range of free activities including: Free Open Day: Sunday May 6 (10am – 4pm) 11am: A free performance by Aseel Tayah who will reflect on memories of her Palestinian grandmother 12pm: Free story time session for kids with Sherene Hassan OAM with a focus on Women in Islam, Islamic Values and Ethics 1pm – onwards: Free recycled flower making activity for kids (suitable for ages 5+ all materials provided) IMA is grateful for all the community support received for this exciting day and looks forward to welcoming you for an interactive, cross cultural experience at one of our events, exhibitions and gatherings in the near future! WWW.AMUST.COM.AU
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Women’s empowerment through faith
Feda Abdo
MWA SAYIT Girls Youth Group at a National Netball League Game. munity are provided with the means and ways of achieving these rights so that they can make the maximum contribution.
From left: Maha Abdo OAM (CEO of MWA), Amanda Tattersall (community organiser and social movement activist), Shaza Rif (President of MWA), Joumana Harris (Former President of MWA).
In order to fulfill the role of supporting, enhance their sense of self confidence and nurturing and responding to gaps in services identity in an otherwise difficult climate. delivery, MWA continues The organisation has to promote basic human worked on improving the rights and social justice level of access and equithrough close partnerAt the heart of MWA ty participation of Musships as a way of remedy women into all facets is a commitment to lim for addressing inequities of Australian life. and injustice. There are a number fairness, equality MWA is recognised of programs and events and justice in all as the leading voice for coming up for Muslim Muslim women and is women of all ages and our interactions sought for advice and where all feedback is and activities that consultation at all levels most welcome at any of government on womtime. support Muslim en’s issues generally and Please get in touch women. specifically those matters with MWA via 02 9750 impacting on Muslim 6916 during business women. hours, email The MWA has become a place of safety, info@mwa.org.au or follow us on Facesecurity and opportunity for many Muslim book and Instagram @MuslimWomenAssowomen. The array of programs provided ciation. by MWA have allowed many women to
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The Muslim Women Association (MWA) is a community based organisation, with offices located in Lakemba and Bass Hill in Sydney’s south west. Established in 1983, the MWA specialises in the delivery of services to Muslim women and their families. For over 30 years MWA has been implementing Empowerment Through Faith and has been there to support, advocate for and represent Muslim women in various stages of their life. At the heart of MWA is a commitment to fairness, equality and justice in all our interactions and activities that support Muslim women. MWA emphasises that very woman has the right to access diverse services to enable them to contribute effectively within the family and the community. It is everybody’s responsibility to ensure that women and other members of our com-
MUSLIM WOMEN ASSOCIATION Established 1983
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Muslim Women Association COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT S E T T L E M E N T S U P P O RT A DVO C AC Y A N D R E P R E S E N TAT I O N H O M E L E S S N E S S A N D D O M E S T I C A N D FA M I LY V I O L E N C E H E A LT H A N D W E L L B E I N G Lakemba and Bass Hill, NSW 12
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SAMAA aiming for respite centre for carers Jashne Buzurg celebrates our seniors accomplishments AMUST Media South Asian Muslim Association of Australia (SAMAA) celebrated its Annual Event ‘Jashn-e-Buzurg’ at Bowman Hall, Blacktown on 15 April 2018. A large number of SAMAA elders, their families, several dignitaries, health experts, representatives from Aged Care Agencies and Providers, SAMAA volunteers and friends, packed the hall and participated in the activities with much enthusiasm. The programme commenced with a recitation from the Holy Quran by Maulana Nazir ul Hassan Thanvi. He described the significance of serving one’s parents in particular and elders in general. He emphasized that any financial donations to support organisations such as SAMAA, who were committed to serving elders, would please Allah and He would reward such pious acts. Popular Sydney singer, Riyaz Shah recited a Naat in honour of Holy Prophet. Mrs Shaheen Firdose, in her role as MC, introduced the speakers and continued to inspire audience for supporting SAMAA. NSW MP Mr Jihad Dib applauded selfless SAMAA team members and it’s office bear-
ers as they did not event want their names to be mentioned. He said that this spirit shows that they are doing the great work for their reward by Allah in true Islamic spirit. He thanked elders for their life long contributions towards the society. The Hon Phillip Ruddock, the senior and highly respectable Federal politician, was pleased to return to SAMAA platform, as he had attended several SAMAA events over past few years. He applauded great contributions from leaders in migrant communities, including Jihad Dib and ex-Governor General of NSW. Mr Ruddock emphasized that South Asian Muslim community needs to build old home facilities to provide a culturally appropriate environment for their elders. Ms Julia Finn, NSW MP from Granville spoke about her own experiences with aged people and how SAMAA’s work was valuable in supporting South Asian Muslim Elders. Two SAMAA seniors Mr Adib Qureshi and Mrs Tanveer Rizvi launched the SAMAA souvenir which was published to mark the occasion.
Women’s Life Expo Pressing for Progress
Noura Awad This year, the Muslim Women’s Welfare of Australia, MWWA, continues the important conversation to encourage all women to prioritize their wellness and put themselves first. The ‘Women’s Life Expo’ organized by the Muslim Women’s Welfare of Australia and advocated by Multicultural NSW on Saturday the 10 March 2018 encouraged women to put their health and well-being at the top of the list, at least for one day. In conjunction with International Women’s Day, the ‘Women’s Life Expo’ creatively combined over 20 businesses, informative talks, and live demonstrations, together with about 400 guests interested in learning about the newest products, information, tips, and services available. The Women’s Life Expo proved very fruitful attracting plenty of interest and giving local consumers and businesses the ability to connect easily and in a stress-free environment. It was an opportunity to speak directly to business owners, ask all sorts of questions without feeling shy, as well as, enjoy some personal or gift shopping. Not only did the stall holders receive excellent exposure, but they empowered other women to realize their dream of building or expanding their very own successful business. Ms Tania Mihailuk MP for Bankstown MAY 2018 / ISSUE 150
Mr Jihad Dib MP with Mr Zahid Jamil, SAMAA. Also gracing the occasion were the Con- will live in the Respite Centre for short perisul General of Pakistan Mr Abdul Majid ods in the company of their contemporaries Yousafani, Mrs Marta Terracciano, Chair- and enjoy the change. person of the ECCNSW, Sr Galila Abdel He further stated that whilst Australian Salam, Head of IWAA and Shaikh Yousuf Government does offer Grants to build Aged Hasan from Islamic Relief. Care Facilities for various Ethnic CommuA short video filmed by SAMAA vol- nities, those Grants were only available if unteer Mr Abbas Zaheer featured selected the Ethnic Community had its own land. SAMAA elders and their carers expressing Once land is owned by the Ethnic Comtheir experiences of old age and how SA- munity, the government would generally MAA helped them through volunteering give 50% of the construction costs. Mr Jaservices and other programmes. mil emphasized the need for more generous Mr Zahid Jamil on behalf of SAMAA said & more realistic donations from our comthat other than SAMAA’s volunteering pro- munity if this dream is ever to materialise. grammes which need funds to run, SAMAA Auction items were donated by a few SAaims to build capital projects. MAA friends who were acknowledged at As a first step, SAMAA aims to build a the event. Respite Centre. This will help full-time carThe audience enjoyed the South Asian ers to seek respite at times (say 1-2 days a cuisine & the Socialising. The Event ended week or fortnight) from their caring duties. on a promising note & SAMAA is heartThis will also help elderly to have a time out ened by the support it has from South Asian from their monotonous life at home. They Muslim Community.
was pleased to meet women at the Expo who have built and run their own business. Countless women around the world are recognized every International Women’s Day for their contributions to communities, workplaces, and organisations. President of MWWA, Mrs Faten Eldana, OAM, emphasized the importance of recognizing the contribution that women have made in the social, economic, cultural, and political fabric. “Press for Progress, which is the theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is the time that our contribution as women to society for many years become recognized” Mrs El Dana said. The Muslim Women’s Welfare of Australia continues to inspire women to get actively involved by demonstrating what it means to be an active achiever and mover of the world in which we live. International Women’s Day not only celebrates inspirational women and their achievements throughout history. But, starts a conversation about important issues relevant to women’s health which MWWA facilitated at the Women’s Life Expo. Each woman was grateful to be invited to the event because it gave them at the very least something to learn, love and share. Read the full article and see more photos at https://wp.me/p4ICdM-4qM Noura Awad is a graduate in Human Psychology and has also attained a Diploma in Education teaching English to high school students. Mrs Awad has spent the past 5 years volunteering with the Muslim Womens Welfare of Australia. WWW.AMUST.COM.AU
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Zakat: Going from Post to Pillar Farhana Aqiludeen As a pillar of Islam, Zakat has enormous transformative potential. But it remains untapped, at what cost? Most of us limit our understanding of the pillars of Islam as being individual, ritual obligations. As long as we bear witness to God and His Prophet verbally, pray, pay, fast and complete the pilgrimage, then we regard our duties to have been fulfilled and the pillars to have been upheld. At an individual level, this approach may well be sufficient. But what it fails to appreciate is the collective nature of the pillars and their function at a community level. When it comes to Zakat, this is especially critical. Zakat is the one pillar that scholars have long identified as having a dual function, an act of obedience to God and a means to affect positively the lives of human beings. Our personal duty to God is fulfilled by making an accurate and timely payment. However, it stands to reason and to piety that God expects us to work together to ensure that our Zakat has the maximum impact in providing support to the faith and the faithful. The Zakat pot in Australia is at least $70 million per annum and growing. To unlock the transformative power of this large and regular source of funding, we urgently need to reconfigure the way in which Zakat is currently being paid, collected and utilised; and this is how we need to do it: 1. POOLING: Rather than each individual making their own decision as to where their Zakat should go, Zakat should be cen-
Sheikh Shady with Ismail Davids. trally collected and organised. 2. LOCALISING: Rather than it being scattered all over the world, Zakat is supposed to be focused locally to affect the very environment in which the Zakat payers live. 3. BALANCING: Rather than being distributed only to the poor, Zakat is supposed to be balanced across the eight categories stipulated in the Qur’an (9:60), in a manner that reflects the needs of the time. All three components of pooling, localising and balancing across the eight categories of expenditure are inter-dependent. The closer we can bring our utilisation of Zakat to reflect these characteristics, the closer we will get to Zakat being a pillar of devotion to God in our society.
Gungahlin Mosque raises over $100K
Manarul Islam The fundraising dinner for the Gungahlin Mosque raised over $100,000 on Saturday 21 April in the nation’s capital, Canberra. The mosque, which was operational in 2017, needs another $500,000 for its immediate next construction goals. The fundraising dinner, MC’d by Mohammed Ali, was the culmination of months’ long planning and hard work by a network of dedicated volunteers that gave the event a professional touch. The Canberra Muslim Community (CMC), which runs the mosque, has a history of well-planned and successfully executed events and activities. Since the mosque has been established, these events have become more frequent, to the delight of the community. In an emotional welcome address by CMC President, Mainul Haque acknowledged the custodians of the land before outlining the MAY 2018 / ISSUE 150
If we maintain the status quo, regardless of noble intentions, the key efforts strengthening Muslims and upholding Islam in Australia are likely weak. Are we serious about tackling the internal and external challenges that weaken us and undermine our submission to God? If so, the shift that is required in our thinking and practice Zakat is nothing short of urgent. On almost every measure of community wellbeing, the Muslim community in Australia rates worse than the national average. Specifically, when we look at numbers relating to poverty, social mobility, health, education, crime and how the community is perceived from the outside. Our faith is misunderstood, often ma-
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ligned, and there is very little that we are doing in the public sphere to rescue its reputation. The above issues are not only problematic in worldly terms. What makes them far more concerning is the effect they have on people’s ability to find and hold onto truth. All the categories of Zakat represent concerns that affect the very fabric of a community. In His knowledge and wisdom, God is simply telling us to spend our money sensibly to tackle the various challenges that end up acting as barriers to people being able to remember, thank and serve Him. As with all His instructions, they are only for our benefit, in this life and the next. To go “from pillar to post” is to go from one place to another in a haphazard manner that tends not to yield results. The divine institution of Zakat is supposed to represent the opposite: an ordered system, clear in its overarching objective and parameters but mercifully flexible in its applications. So be smart with your Zakat. Think carefully about where you pay it and try to do so in line with the principles outlined above. Together, we can and must unlock the full potential of Zakat. After all, our future depends on it. Adapted from original article by Iqbal Nasim, CEO, National Zakat Foundation UK. Your Zakat Belongs Here. More information at nzf.org.au Farhana Aqilah Aqiludeen is the Marketing Coordinator for NZF Australia. She is passionate about empowering the local community through raising awareness of implementing Zakat locally, the often forgotten pillar of Islam. You can reach out to her at engage@nzf.org.au
achievements and goals of the organisation. “We are transitioning from transitioning and ongoing construction to operating and managing a multi-ethnic and multi-million dollar organisation,” he pointed out. He said that the immediate task is to complete the female and male wudu areas, classrooms and a temporary kitchen. to the prayer areas, parking community garden, playground, community hall and a youth and sports centre were also outlined. Imam Adama Konda of the ACT Imam’s Council gave an inspiring speech about the need to establish centres of learning and worship. This was followed by an uplifting and rousing address by Ustad Muhammad Al Bizry which led to the call for donations - which started coming in slow but then gradually gathered momentum to cross the $100,000 threshold before dinner was served, courtesy of a local restaurant which has long supported such events. Manarul Islam is an IT professional, community worker and AMUST correspondent based in Canberra. WWW.AMUST.COM.AU
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Showcasing Islamic history at the National Museum of Australia Faseeha Hashmi When it comes to the Islamic civilisation, there are often two very drastic contradictions one may come to reflect upon. The first of which is shock, and the second, is awe. As it does not take long for one’s news feed to be clogged with news demonstrating the uncivilised and chaotic nature of the state of the Muslim world. Yet, on the other hand, this reflection cannot truly be the real representation of Islam. Certainly, not when there have been such incredible histories behind this longstanding and well-regarded faith. ‘So That You Might Know Each Other: Faith and Culture in Islam’ is one such exhibit to crush such beliefs on display at the Nation Museum of Australia (NMA) in Canberra from 20 April to 22 July 2018. This exhibition which features more than 100 precious 18th to 20th-century artefacts from more than 20 countries, showcasing embroidered textiles from Uzbekistan, musical instruments from Morocco and a horse saddle from North Africa. The project is all part of a demonstration of the colourful and beautiful Islamic past, in partnership between the Vatican Anima Mundi Museum of World Arts and Cultures and the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation. Islam’s Golden Age which dates back from the 8th century to the 14th century brought many scientific, mathematical and artistic contributions to the world. For instance, the first flying machine of the 9th century was designed as a winged
apparatus that was first attempted by a Spanish man called Abbas ibn Firnas. Similarly, the invention of the camera and clock have also been attributed to Muslim creative inventors. Such historical records are not generally well-known or appreciated. Nevertheless, this particular Australian exhibition on global artefacts seeks to demonstrate the stunning diversity of Islamic cultures. Director of the NMA Mathew Trinca said it was the first time many of the objects have been showcased to Australia. “There’s just beautiful things in this exhibition from across the Islamic world,” Dr Trinca said. “Islamic arts and decorative crafts are globally recognised for their beauty and artistry, and we hope this exhibition promotes mutual understanding and dialogue between cultures and faiths.” It is hoped that this exhibition would inspire the Australian public to be open-minded about Islamic history. According to Dr Trinca, the exhibition seeks to encourage the audience to “open up and embrace difference”. The Director of the Vatican Museums, Dr Barbara Jatta, shared her hopes for the Australian audiences to embrace the exhibition. “As I followed the preparation of this exhibition, I was sincerely struck by the beauty and sophistication of the Islamic world - I saw firsthand the refined productions of people living across a vast area stretching from Africa to Australia.” The Quran is said to be a book not just for Muslims, but a book for humanity. The title
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Saddle and saddlecloth with harness straps, North Africa.
‘So That You Might Know Each Other’ is inspired by a verse from the Holy Qur’an. “O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted”. (Quran 49: 13). The verse epitomises the openness and ac-
ceptance of Islamic theology, that ultimately values the equality and nobility of all. This exhibition reinforces the spirit of intercultural respect and dialogue. According to Trinca, the exhibition has been long waited by the Australian public. “There has never been a more important time for a show of this kind in Australia,” said Dr Trinca.
EXHIBITION NOW OPEN
‘So That You Might Know Each Other’
FAITH AND C CULTURE IN ISLAM
COLLECTIONS FROM THE VATICAN VAT ANIMA MUNDI MUSEUM, THE SHARJAH MUSEUMS AUTHORITY AND T THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AUSTRALIA
ON SHOW UNTIL 22 JULY 2018
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF A AUSTRALIA, CANBERRA
nma.gov.au/vatican-sharjah nma.gov.au/vatican-sha Taqsireh (lady’s festive jacket), Palestine, late 19th or early 20th century, inv. 112314. ©Vatican Museums
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The author speaking at the ‘So That You Might Know Each Other’ Faith and Culture in Islam media launch.
The Beauty of Faith & Art Museum holds stunning exhibition based on a quote from Quran Dr Patrick Mclnerney I had the privilege of speaking at the Press Conference for the launch of “So That You Might Know Each Other: Faith and Culture in Islam”, an exhibition which opened at the National Museum of Australia in Canberra on Friday 20 April 2018. The name of the exhibition is taken from the verb, (Letaarafu), in the Holy Quran, Surah Al-Hujurat [The Dwellings] (49:13): O people! Behold, We have created you all out of a male and a female, and have made you into nations and tribes, so that you might know each other. The exhibition is a cooperation between the Vatican Anima Mundi Museum, the Sharjah Museums Authority and the National Museum of Australia. The exhibits include costumes, jewellery, musical instruments, embroidered hangings, armour, sacred manuscripts, calligraphy and ceramics. Dr Matthew Trinca, Director of the National Museum of Australia, emphasised how timely the exhibition is. It showcases a wonderful variety of art and culture from Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Australia and provides a unique opportunity for the people of Australia to get to know this rich Islamic heritage. Father Nicola Mapelli, Director of the Vatican Anima Mundi Museum of World Arts and Cultures, said that the pieces selected showed that beauty is a common language for all people. The cooperation with the other museums also showed the Vatican’s commitment to growing strong and positive Christian-Muslim relations. Ms Manal Ataya, Director General of the Sharjah Museums Authority, shared the origins of this exhibition in a similar, historic offering in Sharjah in 2014. She stressed that in times of misinformation and prejudice, the museum and the items in this exhibit provide a safe space and an occasion for deep conversations about faith and culture. I spoke about the connection between Aboriginal reconciliation and interfaith relations; noting also that the first contact between the first peoples and the Makasar is included in this exhibition, along with the contribution of the Afghan cameleers in MAY 2018 / ISSUE 150
opening up the interior of the country. I affirmed that good relations between Christians and Muslims generally prevail here in Australia. I also acknowledged that while Islamophobia is a reality, sometimes stirred up by leaders for their own political advantage, the best way to overcome it is getting to know people. I stressed that with over 40% born and raised here, Muslims are no longer foreigners or strangers, but fellow citizens; even more, with shared beliefs in God, angels, prophets and scripture—though of course expressions are different—to other believers they are also sisters and brothers in faith. I acknowledged that the hospitality extended by Muslims on national mosque open days and for iftar meals during the month of Ramadan helps break down fears, stereotypes and suspicions. I thanked and congratulated the organisers of this exhibition for it provides another opportunity for Christians and Muslims to get to know each other, which complements my own work and that of many others in Christian-Muslim relations. The exhibits are clearly identified and explained. The official guide book is a treasure of information. In my tour of the exhibition, knowing the sense of proximity to the Prophet that these sacred items would engender in the hearts and minds of Muslims, I was particularly moved by the qandil, an embroidered separator from the kiswah, the ceremonial cloth draped over the Kaaba in Mecca; and the, richly embroidered hangings for the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina. I encourage Muslims, Christians, believers from other faiths and all people to visit this exhibition. I hope that schools—private, public, faith and independent—will arrange tours, especially for students of Studies of Religion. I hope that Muslim, Christian and interfaith organisations will arrange guided visits. I hope that many concerned citizens will visit, experience and reflect on this rich heritage of Islamic faith and culture from other parts of the world but also including our own Australian story, and that their minds and hearts will be opened to broader horizons. While it is obviously easier for people in or near the national capital to visit the National Museum in Canberra, I hope that many people from Sydney and other parts of the state and even further will make the effort to see this exhibition.
As the title of the exhibition indicates, it is a wonderful opportunity for Christians and Muslims and others “to get to know each other”. The exhibition runs to 22 July 2018. For details see: http://www.nma.gov.au/ exhibitions/so-that-you-might-know-each-
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other. Rev Dr Patrick McInerney is the Director of the Columban Mission Institute and Coordinator of its Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations and is based in Sydney.
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Palm Sunday Rally for refugees AMUST
Philip Feinstein The Palm Sunday rally and march in Sydney for 2018 saw a huge turnout of over 3,500 supporters. The event was held in all capital cities of Australia as well as many country towns. In Sydney everyone met up at Belmore Park near Central Railway and after some ground-breaking speeches proceeded to march up Broadway. There were many important speakers at the rally who pointed out the difficulties faced by those imprisoned at Nauru and Manus Island. The Rev Simon Hansford, a Uniting Church moderator, spoke in clear terms of how everyone at the rally was the voice of the incarcerated refugees and asylum seekers. “They should know that they are not alone. We are their voices and will remain their allies until the current situation changes.” He ended with the chant: “Refugees are welcome here!” Imogen Szumer from the Refugee Action Coalition reminded us of the reasons why we were at the rally and why we keep coming back. “Let me remind you of the human cost of this racist border protection policy in only one year since our last Palm Sunday Rally – On Good Friday 2017, drunken PNG soldiers fired shots into the Manus detention centre; There have been tragic, preventable deaths on Manus Island: Hamed, whose deteriorating mental state the Border force was aware of for more than a year, and of Rajeev, who was supposed to be receiving medical treatment in hospital where he died,” Imo-
‘Jews for Refugees’ at the Melbourne Rally. gen said. Adding more bad news she said “The fact that this government refused to allow three pregnant women on Nauru to come to Australia for an abortion; the siege on Manus to try and force men there to move to still-under-construction facilities with little to no security, and little food, water or medical treatment, before being brutally removed by police;and just this month being ordered to bring two refugee children on Nauru to Australia for medical treatment because they were suicide risks!” Another speaker was Gem Romuld of the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons who pointed out that Australia was yet to sign the International Nuclear Treaty. “With every new signatory on the TPNW, the international norm against nuclear aggression will strengthen. The weapon will
lose its status and it will be harder for nuclear programs to secure resources for modernization and maintenance. Countries that claim dependence on extended nuclear deterrence, like Australia, will experience increasing pressure to sign on and choose a non-nuclear defence posture,” she said. Before packing up for the march to the
University of Sydney, other speakers added their voices to the cause: The government is constantly trying to whip up fear about refugees as well as finding new targets such as African migrants. Whilst only 230 refugees have been accepted under the US resettlement scheme, over 1,500 refugees languish in Manus and Nauru in very cruel conditions. The government and citizens of Australia need to take responsibility for the refugees on Nauru and Manis Island and to welcome them with open arms. Refugees are welcome here! There were many groups with their banners indicating their support. Grandmothers for Refugees looked wonderful in their purple outfits. Different unions proudly displayed their feelings. And the Jews for Refugees banner indicated a strong solidarity stance for the cause of the day. Broadway was filled with supporters chanting support for refugees and the crowds along the way showed many thumbs up. And so the rally ended at Victoria Park on a beautiful sunny day. But things were still grim at Nauru and Manus Island. View some of the other speeches from Sunday: https://youtu.be/yIRqSl-tlu8 Philip Feinstein is a Sydney based writer, musician and activist working for MUSIC FOR REFUGEES www.musicforrefugees.org
Sikh Games attract 5 to 90 year olds
On behalf of the Australian Greens, wishing you all
Ramadan Mubarak!
Australian Muslims are an integral part of this country, and we’re very proud to see all the wonderful contributions made to our nation.
Tarlochan Singh
We’re hosting an Iftar to celebrate the coming of Ramadan with Australian Muslims on Sunday 27th May. Please join us!
The Greens’ Iftar
Sunday 27th of May from 5:00 - 6:30pm Brunswick Town Hall, 233 Sydney Rd, Brunswick RSVP: Email Cassie Hadson at cassie.hadson@aph.gov.au or phone 03 9654 0430 by Tuesday May 22nd
Authorised by R Di Natale, Australian Greens, Parliament House, Canberra ACT 2600
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The 31st Australian Sikh Games 2018 was held at Bass Hill in Sydney during the Easter long weekend for 3 days from 30 March to 1 April. The Bass Hills stadiums were full of Punjabi colourful dresses and turbans worn by young and old participants and spectators making it look like a Little Punjab in Sydney. Mr Avtar Singh Sidhu, President of Sikh Games said that it was one the best games ever held in Australia with around 3000 athletes participating in 16 sports including kabaddi, soccer, hockey, netball, cricket, wrestling, tennis, basketball, badminton, golf, volleyball, athletics, tug of war, gatka, Sikh form, turban tying workshop and cultural events. Free food called Langer Seva was organised by Mr Rupinder Singh, Batla Group while Mr Tajinderpal Singh who was incharge of the kitchen said that Langar Seva was a unique service in Sikhism that made us different than others with the Grace of Waheguru.
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Now the Australian Sikh Games are the premier sporting and cultural event for the Australian Sikh community. The Games are held every year in capital cities and major regional areas around Australia. Athletes and spectators from all over the country and overseas, including New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, India, Canada and the UK come to participate in a wide array of traditional Indian and Australian sports and related events. The Australian Sikh Games are made possible through the help of community organisations from all around Australia. These organisations are normally run by volunteers who want to actively contribute to their local Sikh community while also coaching or competing in their chosen sports. The Australian National Sikh Sports and Cultural Council (ANSSACC) acts as an umbrella body of all partners organisations. There were two junior scholarships available for $1,000 each and Two hardworking players, Parveen Gill from Perth Sikh Swans Netball team won the ANSACC scholarships. See more photos online at https://wp.me/p4ICdM-4q7 ISSUE 150 / MAY 2018
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Still Going Strong, Two Decades On Mahboba’s Promise: 20th anniversary celebrations Emily Mays & Faryal Khan In celebration of the 20th Anniversary of Mahboba’s Promise Charity, a Gala Dinner was held on Saturday 24 February 2018 at Ryde Civic Centre in Sydney in honour of the tremendous support the organisation has received over the past two decades. Since 1998, the support base of our Sydney –based charity has grown exponentially, allowing the organisation to make great progress in Afghanistan through various education and training programs. Hosted by ABC reporter, Virginia Haussegger, the dinner not only showcased Afghanistan’s exquisite culture, but was also used as an opportunity to raise funds for MP’s new Badakhshan Hope House and Maternity Clinic. A selection of prestigious speakers were invited to share their experiences working within the non-profit sector, speaking particularly about the importance of educating women and children in the fight against poverty. We were delighted to have the first female Governor General of Australia, Dame Quentin Bryce, guest speak at the Gala Dinner, sharing her long history fighting for women’s rights in Australia and around the world. Dame Quentin Bryce is a long-time supporter of Mahboba’s Promise, and has worked alongside our founder, Mahboba Rawi, to provide disadvantaged Afghan women and children with a more prosperous future. In addition, Elizabeth Broderick made a moving speech about breaking down the social barriers that deter women from achieving equal opportunity. Other guest speakers
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Mahboba Rawi with former Governor General of Austral- Traditional Afghani hand-crafted rugs were displayed at ia, Dame Quentin Bryce. the Gala Dinner. Without the united effort of the Australian included Julian Burnside, an advocate for Flower Hut, Naomi Hamilton Photography community and our many diligent supportrefugee and human rights, and Wahidullah and The Ambassador Reception Lounge. The Co-founder of Mahboba’s Promise re- ers, we would not have been able to hold Waissi, Ambassador Plenipotentiary. Afghanistan’s beautifully unique culture leased this statement after the Gala Dinner, such a successful event. Mahboba’s Promise is excited to see the was showcased through a variety of enter- “The event wouldn’t have been a success taining performances, traditional Afghan without the generosity of the Australian com- progress of our new Badakhshan Hope foods and delicacies, and a successful auction munity, through donations, sponsorship and House and Maternity clinic, and the positive volunteering. impact it will have on the lives of thousands of hand-crafted rugs and jewellery. Thank you to our inspiring guest speakers of people in Afghanistan. All the funds raised from these sale items Visit mahbobaspromise.org or call (02) was invested into the new Hope House and who contributed immensely to the success of Maternity Clinic. Mahboba’s Promise would the Anniversary Dinner. Mahboba’s Prom- 9887 1665 for more information about our like to show gratitude to the countless busi- ise was able to raise over $50,000 for the current Afghan and Australian projects. To nesses that supported the evening, including two projects in Badakhshan; The new Hope stay up to date with our humanitarian projects, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, The House building and Maternity Clinic.”
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Finding the Fiqh of Fasting
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5 Day Ramadan Study Circle by Ustadh Abdul Hadi AMUST Media
8 Ramadan Winners Life Matters Academy 1. Having a vision for Ramadan that’s inspiring and balanced 2. Having a well- thought-out plan that backs up your Ramadan vision (including a powerful daily routine plan that increases by the last third of Ramadan) 3. Make prior decisions of how you will spend your Ramadan differently this year
(e.g. saying ‘no’ to time wasters like excessive iftar invites, over eating at iftar, limiting technology, etc) 4. Declutter and clean your space (room, office, kitchen, etc) 5. Start re-connecting with the Qur’an by reciting daily a specific wird 6. Write your dua list 7. If you give pre Ramadan gifts; make them count in your Mizan of good deeds 8. Make up any of your missed fasts from previous Ramadan.
Deepen your understanding of the inner and outer dimensions and benefits of Islamic fasting with Hanafi Fiqh teacher Ustadh Abdul Hadi. The class is held every Saturday between 28 April - 26 May, 11:00am – 12:30pm at 299 Belmore Rd, Riverwood. This study circle encompasses the comprehensive and academic exploration of Tuhfat al-Muluk, focusing on the spiritual and physical manifestations of the month-long fast that is practiced by millions of Muslims around the world. The 5 days study circle will facilitate a sound understanding of what is often felt to be a confusing set of fiqh rulings. With a more comprehensive course, students will be able to delve deeper into the underlying principles that connect rulings together. This in turn, will give you more confidence to apply this knowledge to your day to day practice during Ramadan inshaAllah. Majority of proceeds will go towards supporting the new centre. Cost: $60. Registration Essential. Lawoffasting.eventbrite.com.au The Teacher Ustadh Abdul Hadi Shah-Idil is a scholar of Hanafi Fiqh and its Usul and has studied primarily with Dr Salah Abulhajj for 6 years. Dr Salah is the Dean of the Faculty of Hanafi Fiqh, WISE University, Amman, Jordan. Ustadh Abdul Hadi is the founder of Sanad Arabic and teaches classical Arabic at CISAC/CSU and Hanafi Fiqh at Daar Ibn Abbas. The Text. Imam Zayn al-Din Muhammad ibn Abi Bakr al-Razi (died 666 a.h.) is the famous author of Tuhfat Al-Muluk- The Rulings of Hanafi Fiqh.
Ramadan: a time to Read! Nadia Selim
Ramadan is a special time of year for Muslims around the world, a time of fasting, prayer and reflection and a cleanse both in the physical and spiritual sense that is awaited year on year. Ramadan is venerated and celebrated where millions anxiously await the announcement of the moon citing. Apart from the vast r e -
wards that Muslims seek from Allah in partaking in the fast and prayer, Muslims acknowledge that this is the month in which the first verse of the Holy Qur’an was revealed. “Read in the name of your Lord who created” [96:1]. The first command issued to the Prophet Muhammad (s) and to all Muslims thereafter. A four-letter imperative, both in Arabic (Iqra) and in English (read), set the tone for a people who emerged from their slumber and forged one of the greatest civilisations. The tradition of literacy, has been handed down to us from our predecessors. However, overtime, many have narrowed the meaning of the word to the bare bones of a rudimentary skill. For them, the word read, has come to mean the recognition and correct utterance of a series of sounds signalled by shapes painted beautifully on a sheet of paper. These, often haunting renditions made with phenomenal recitational capacities resound in rooms and echo off mosque walls pulling on the strings of a n y
heart that witnesses such a display. Sadly, for many these sounds tantalise and torment. Such beauty demands comprehension of the message but remains locked away until they pull out their favourite “translation” to try and steal a glimpse into the world that these incantations herald. Fully, reliant on a mediated interpretation, they faithfully place their trust in others to tell them what these verses mean. Failing to realise that translations of the Qur’an are merely impoverished attempts at interpreting potential meanings of divinely selected, often multi-faceted and precisely organised words that leave many translators grappling with words in their respective languages that may or may not capture the essence of the complex Arabic root. Such brothers and sisters are often told that they are not really experiencing the Qur’an. They are told that translations do not convey the beauty of poetry, the rhythm, the cadence or rhetorical devices the Qur’an so miraculously uses. Those who tell them this are also left feeling frustrated that they cannot make someone miss something they have never experienced. However, the greater question remains, how can one be satisfied with a reliance on someone’s interpretation of the Qur’an when Allah has asked one to “Read”?
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Nadia Selim based in Adelaide is a PhD candidate at the Centre for Islamic Thought & Education (CITE), University of South Australia.
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fadilahLQ
Learn Quran, a non-profit app developer based in Depok, Indonesia released their second product Learn Quran Tafsir English version on Saturday 21 April 2018. Learn Quran Tafsir was earlier released in Bahasa Indonesian language on 21 January 2018. Learn Quran Tafsir is a free online tafsir that is accessible from smartphone, tablet, or PC by visiting tafsir.learn-quran.co/en. Anyone can search specific keywords, topics, or go straight to a certain verse in Quran. The results will appear instantly, showing which verses and tafsir contain the keywords, just like how a search engine works. Two months after its first launch in Indonesia, 216,167 users had visited Learn Quran Tafsir in Bahasa Indonesia version. The development of this Quran search engine was started in the middle of 2017 by a small team, based in Depok, Indonesia. There are four young people in this team, Mohamad Sani, Denny Yusuf, Himmatul Aliyah, and Asma Nabila, plus two advisors, Alham Fikri Aji, an Artificial Intelligence expert, graduated from University of Edinburgh, ex-Apple and Google, and Nur Fajri Romadhon, Lc, a young scholar graduated
Top Tips For Ramadan 1. Don’t skip Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) 2. Don’t overeat during Iftar (dinner) 3. Avoid eating fried foods, salty foods and high-sugar foods 4. Drink as much water as possible
from Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University, Jakarta branch, as the tafsir content advisor. Mohamad Sani, CEO, Learn Quran, said, “Allah said in the Quran Surah 16:89 ‘We have sent down to you the Book as clarification for all things and as guidance and mercy and good tidings for the Muslims’, so, we develop Learn Quran Tafsir to make it easy for people to ask anything, to find anything, in the Quran without worrying the credibility of the sources as you may encounter by using Google.” With Learn Quran Tafsir, every Muslim in the world with internet access can read Quran tafsirs without any cost. No more hassle to buy and find keywords from numerous tafsir books. This will benefits the global Muslim population, which is expected to reach 2.76 bil-
lion in 2050. Ustadh Dr Amir Faishol Fath, a Quran scholar and tafsir expert from Indonesia, praised this search engine. “Learn Quran Tafsir is amazing. Insha Allah, with this tool you can easily get the classic and modern tafsir interpretation.” Australia, Peter Gould, Design Executive Officer of Zileej, a global innovation company from Dubai, after meeting with Learn Quran team in Jakarta said, “A great tool for interacting with Quranic content. It’s important efforts to help people engage, understand and experience Quran in our times.” Meanwhile, the mobile app version is currently under development. This is to respond to the growing number of smartphone users, particularly the young global Muslim population.
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A Dream or a Bet?
Dr Mrs Halima Qureshi announces the wedding of her two granddaughters, Aarifah Bhatti to Sami Ullah Qazi, and Mominah Bhatti to Nuaym Khalid. Aarifah and Mominah are daughters of Abdul Mannan Bhatti & Lubna Bhatti.
Muhammad Umran, Syria
Translated by Dr Anne Fairbairn AM (Excerpts) Let it be a dream to hold the earth in my hands from ocean to ocean. The earth is a violet or a red rose which I fasten in the hair of my woman. The hair of my woman is moons of gold and waves of flame The hair of my woman is wind, blue clouds, and the hair of my woman is rain.
Nuaym Khalid Aarifah Bhatti weds weds Mominah Sami Ullah Qazi Bhatti Nuaym Khalid is the son of Mohammed Khalid Omer and Rasheeda Begum. Nuaym works as a Business development manager at Sarsan oilfields and supplies and Mominah is a resident doctor at the Prince of Wales hospital, Sydney. The wedding took place in Dubai on 12 January 2018.
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Let it be a To hold the lips from ocean The earth is ter of grapes. I pluck the blue children riding upon the hair of
grapes for blue my woman.
Let it be a dream To hold the earth in my heart from ocean to ocean. The earth is blood Which I run over the hair of my woman. The hair of my woman is rivers, blue water-wheels, Trees and blue poems and orchards for the birth of blue of blue wings. The hair of my woman is blue horizons.
Sami Ullah Qazi is the son of Abdul Gani Qazi and Jamila Rehmat. Sami is a logistics manager and Aarifah is a Speech Pathologist. The wedding took place in Sydney on 30 March 2018.
AUSTRALASIAN MUSLIM TIMES
dream earth in my to ocean. bread or a clus-
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Dr Anne Fairbairn AM is an accomplished poet and writer. She is passionate about First Nation peoples, Muslims and Arabic literature and culture. She is based in Sydney.
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Movie Review: ‘Bilal: A New Breed of Hero’ Ramia Abdo Sultan
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the movie, ‘Bilal: A New Breed of Hero’ and would most definitely recommend the movie to others. In summary, it is an animated cartoon depicting the life of Bilal ibn Rabah (r), the companion of Prophet Mohammad (s) and is inspired by true events more than 1400 years ago. Bilal was once known as the slave of a man called Umayyah ibn Khalaf, and was the first man to pronounce the athan, Islamic call to prayers since he had the most beautiful voice. Whilst the movie is about one of Prophet Muhammad’s (s) most trusted companions, the focus is primarily on themes that are just as relevant today as they were back then, racism, oppression, power, injustice, inequality, slavery and so on. What makes the movie interesting is that there is no specific reference to Islam, infact there is no direct reference to Prophet Muhammad (s) himself, which highlights the fact that the movie is not intended to preach anything, but rather, to reinforce the importance of upholding essential human values such as equality and justice. Whilst the movie is not exclusively about religion, it undoubtedly prompts one to explore religious themes relevant to that time. The movie highlights the point that all men are equal and that each person chooses who his ultimate master will be. Some are shackled to their wealth, some are shackled to power and some are enslaved to the pleasures of this [temporary] world. The free man is the one whose heart has no attachment to this life and that is the
freedom that ultimately frees Bilal. There is a message of struggle and hardship, but hope at the same time, in that hope will only ever become tangible once mankind recognises the importance of equality, justice and unity. While the movie had some gaps, and perhaps sped over some critical details, it nevertheless leaves the viewer with an eagerness to further explore the life of Bilal, beyond the movie. This is especially the case since the audience is left in suspense regarding Bilal making athan throughout the entire movie. The viewer finally gets insight into Bilal’s most
Tahir Alam bags Samsung Gold and Silver awards Zia Ahmad A young employee of Samsung, Tahir Alam was presented with a Gold Award for Outstanding Sales and Achievement by the Vice President and the Silver Award for Excellent Sales Achievement by CEO Steve Lee. Tahir achieved top results in sales and staff training for 10 Samsung stores in Australia and was highly commended by the regional CEO of Samsung, Mr Steve Lee. The awards were presented in Singapore on Monday 19 March where 60 employees were invited and nine were awarded out of more than 33,000 Samsung Brand Experts in South East Asia and Australia. Based on sales results, performance, and local recommendations, Tahir Alam along with his colleagues Liza Pearl and Luke Scaramuzza were chosen to fly the Australian flag as top Australian Brand Experts in Singapore. Tahir moved to Australia to join his brother Zahid Alam along with his father Mr Khalid Hussain and mother Farhat Arra from India in May 2010. He started his educational journey down under from East Hills Boys High School and while was studying joined KFC in November 2010 as a casual employee. After finishing his HSC he MAY 2018 / ISSUE 150
notable feature, his voice at the end of the movie when he makes athan from the most significant places in the world, the Ka’aba in Makkah. I found the movie to be a great opportunity to introduce Bilal as a real historical figure who fought for the same values that many of us may be fighting today. I would definitely recommend the movie to all, Muslim and people of other faiths and no faith, since it addresses universal values that apply to all, and gives room for the viewer to perhaps do further research and readings on the themes/characters raised in the movie. As a Muslim viewer, the movie has most definitely inspired me to revisit the seerah
(Prophets biography) and re-discover the characters that were mentioned in the movie. Ramia Abdo Sultan is a lawyer, wife, and mother of 3 girls. Ramia was born and raised in Australia and is also of Palestinian heritage. Ramia studied a Bachelor of Laws at UTS and she recently set up her own legal practice in Chullora (Hills Legal Group) along with two other female Muslim lawyers. Ramia has completed her Masters in Islamic Studies at Charles Sturt University, and is currently serving on the Executive Committee of the Gaza Children’s Fund Inc., a not for profit humanitarian organisation seeking to aid and empower women and children in Gaza.
RAMADAN MUBARAK I hope you all enjoy a month of celebration, peaceful reflection and blessings, and a lovely Eid-ul-Fitr surrounded by loved ones
Tahir Alam. attended Petersham TAFE, where he completed a Certificate 4 in Work Health and Safety. In 2013 he was promoted to the Restaurant Manager at KFC and after staying there for 6 years he opted for a change of career joining the position of Brand Expert at Samsung Australia in November 2016. His responsibilities at Samsung include looking after the company line, training staff, sales support, and customer service.
DR MEHREEN FARUQI
GREENS NSW MP & LEAD SENATE CANDIDATE Authorised by Andrew Blake for The Greens NSW, 1/275 Broadway GLEBE NSW 2037
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Shoebox 4 Syria: Founder speaks to AMUST Aisha Mohsin “How wonderful it is that nobody needs to wait a single moment before starting to improve the world”. This beautiful quote by Anne Frank was the first thing to cross my mind after I finished talking to the co-founder of Shoebox 4 Syria on a bright Monday morning. Several years ago, an enthusiastic community development worker – Khouloud Joumaa, along with her cousin Saphia Al Kakouni, driven by the spirit of giving, started Shoe Box 4 Syria — a Sydney-based, non-profit organisation for the children who are orphaned and displaced in Syria. Now in its third year, the organisation has had hundreds of students, from various schools across Australia, come on board to help make a real difference to the lives of their fellow young brothers and sisters suffering and struggling in Syria. The venture seems to have tapped into a niche of brave little heroes, who in their humble capacity, have proved that age is no barrier when it comes to doing good. Here are the 8 questions we asked to learn more about this initiative. Tell us about your organisation We started in 2016. The idea was to engage the community, schools, and friends in offering charitable donations and gifts to the kids in Syria. Saphia, my cousin, had seen the horrors of war first hand in Syria and knew better that the destructive aftermath of the war extends far beyond the battlefield. She considered herself fortunate to be alive and able to flee back to Australia with her kids, but there
was pain she kept revisiting in her head— an anguish that she felt on witnessing the depravity of the entire situation! So one day, Saphia rang me up on the phone, blissfully unaware of how this mutual pain could strike the chord it did, we both decided that no matter how small, we had to play our part in making life easier for the people in Syria. Hence, the brainchild Shoebox 4 Syria was born. How has your past experience prepared you in becoming the person you are today? After being diagnosed with brain tumour and then making a remarkable recovery to battle my way back to fitness has lent me perspective, tremendous positivity and the willpower I needed to believe in myself and help others in distress feel better too. Also, it was my role as a teacher and the love for the orphans that has helped laid the foundation of our initiative. I thoroughly enjoyed teaching and making a difference in children’s lives. It is an honour to be in this role. How do you engage with various communities? We have made full use of various social media vehicles; such as Facebook, newspapers, radio etc. We have also created short animated videos. Social media alone has helped us reach a wider audience. Word of mouth, family and acquaintances have been quite resourceful too. Describe your passion for this mission In the wake of this initiative some years ago, I would’ve not imagined that my passion for giving would lead me to write a book one day. Writing for me is therapeutic and the message I want to convey via my book is to promote love not hate for we are
all one. My passion for Shoebox 4 Syria has morphed into a creative outlet. What are some of the obstacles you faced? I would say its when people send used clothing items as gifts. Not to mention an element of financial constraints too but the community has been very giving and Allah creates ways and means from unexpected sources. All praise belong to Him alone. Describe a successful fundraising campaign you headed Our team members from various projects, volunteers and some brothers from behind the scenes have raised funds for sending medical supplies’ containers to Syria and even upgraded the cancer ward in one of the hospitals in Gaza, Palestine. I must admit, that considering all the conditions, this has been a truly humbling experience in that not just Muslims but people from a myriad of cultural backgrounds and faiths have come forward and donated generously Have you considered collaborating with other charities? Keeping in mind the increased reach and resources as well as improved services, we would like to. For us, however, the most important consideration of all is the potential value to the deserving people. We have never viewed our efforts as anything other than an opportunity to connect with the less fortunate in hopes that it’ll help us stay grounded in knowing that since Allah has blessed us abundantly, it is now upon us to share those blessings with our brothers and sisters in need. And Shoebox 4 Syria is the least we can do! Is there a message you’d like to give to the community via Australasian Muslim Times?
Khouloud Joumaa & Saphia Alkakouni, Founders of Shoebox 4 Syria. To the community out there, I urge you all to give open-heartedly. Also, the Muslim Ummah needs to be united and let go of trivial, personal and ideological differences to prosper in this world and the hereafter. Thank you Khouloud Joumaa for sharing your journey with us. Aisha Mohsin is a Melbourne-based academic editor and blogger. She has a knack for writing. You can find her at www.aishamohsinblog.wordpress.com
House fire destroys Saleh family home Gulhan Eryegit Yoldas
رمضان كـريـم
Ramadan Kareem
أطيب التمنيات لكم ولعائلتكم ،وأصدقائكم يف هذا الشهر الفضيل .رضع ّ شهر اإليـامن والدعاء والت During this period of peace, faith and humility, we hope you have a Ramadan Kareem with family and friends. 1/25 Smith Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 Phone: Email:
9689 1455 julie.owens.mp@aph.gov.au
JulieOwensMP @JulieOwensMP www.julieowens.com.au Authorised by Julie Owens MP, Australian Labor Party, 1/25 Smith St, Parramatta NSW 2150.
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Imagine one day going to pick up your children from school and by the time you come back home, in a matter of 45 minutes, the house and all your belongings have been engulfed by flames and you suddenly find yourselves homeless. This is exactly what happened to the Saleh Family. On the afternoon of Tuesday, 24 April 2018, the Saleh family lost everything and returned home to find police and fire brigade crew around their home. Their beloved cat perished in the fire. The fire is not thought to be suspicious and at this stage, a faulty power board is suspected of being the cause of the fire. The City of Whittlesea has been very responsive in ensuring the family have emergency accommodation and food during this time of crisis. The news of the house fire was also announced to the Muslim community in Melbourne’s outer north who have since launched a GoFundMe page to support the family as they get back on their feet, starting from scratch. The Saleh family is part of the Al Siraat College community and had just earlier this year moved to a new area to be closer to the school in Wollert. This will be a difficult time for the family of four as they rebuild their lives so the community is encouraged to help as much as they can and give generously.
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The Saleh Family lost their home in a house fire. In the lead up to Ramadhan, it’s a truly a blessing that no family members were hurt. Please keep the Saleh family, Sister Jedda, Brother Dilla and their two children in our duas. Donations can be made via the GoFundMe link below; www.gofundme.com/ the-saleh-family-house-fire 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. ISSUE 150 / MAY 2018
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Faithtech at Lakemba Mosque Faseeha Hashmi
Imagine your very art 3D cameras to scan own private, undisthe mosque, Technicturbed virtual-reality Touch successfully experience of a beaumaps out the interior tiful Australian iconand exterior design ic mosque. Through of the mosque. And exceptional detail, whilst doing so, Irshad TechnicTouch have made some interesting captured exactly that discoveries. and it is mesmeris“People in the ing when you take a mosque hardly exvirtual reality tour of perience the views Lakemba Mosque. from the top of the Located in the subpulpit and minaret urb of Lakemba in but the 3D scan now New South Wales, made it a possibility the Lakemba Mosque to provide the stunalso known as Ali Bin ning experience.” Abi Talib Mosque is said Irshad. said to be one of the “What I like about largest mosques in virtual reality is that Australia. it allows you to Owner of Technic travel to places you Touch Evolution, might otherwise not Irshad Ali explains have and share your that after attending experiences with Jummah prayer at others in a creative the mosque, he wonway.” dered how to make The mosque has the place more visa grandeur design ible for non-Muswith wooden lims. doors, tiled “I wanted to demosaics leadmystify the mosque ing up the for those that might Mimbar not have seen it” (or platexplained Irshad. form) Using state of the sur-
rounded by luxurious maroon carpet. The building is complete with a blue dome with a coneshaped chandelier. It is also equipped with a function hall that is used for weddings, art exhibitions and community functions. Its design follows the seamless traditional design similar to those found across the Asian subcontinent. “Virtual reality technology is transforming the marketing sector,” said Irshad. “The future we are heading towards will see a faster turn around and less travel time. This means we can share in more creative ways. Virtual reality is at the cutting edge of that.” said Irshad. A virtual presentation can help businesses to improve their product sales pitch to customers
by providing them with a competitive edge in the digital space. “There are also medical applications which come from virtual reality technology,” said Irshad enthusiastically. In this digital age, virtual tour facilities are being created right before our very eyes, across numerous industries such as residential real estate, event planning, engineering, construction, travel, restaurant, retail, cultural spaces and now – faith spaces. So it does not matter if you can not see the space in person, technology is allowing us to explore places we might not ordinarily get to visit. However, one place you might want to put on the bucket list of Australian iconic locations is the Lakemba Mosque. When it comes to virtual reality, we should seek to think outside the box. The application of such technology harbours enormous potential. These visual delights provide us with new opportunities, to travel beyond our very imaginations.
TV Star brings the house down
Anwar Maqsood’s live performance in Australia
Syed Mohammad Adnan Koocha-e-Saqafat Australia presented a remarkable show on Saturday 24 March 2018 at Rockdale town hall in Sydney showcasing live the highly popular satirist, humorist and actor Mr Anwar Maqsood, titled ‘Pakistan 70 ka, Anwar Maqsood 78 ka’. This was the very first time that Anwar Maqsood performed live in Australia and the credit goes to Javed Nazar of Koocha-e-Saqafat who with his team made this dream a reality. Anwar Maqsood in his 100 minutes of captivating performance made his audience nearly cry with laughter but there were some MAY 2018 / ISSUE 150
instances where he made them really cry. The performance was so mesmerising, the house full capacity crowd in the Rockdale community hall did not move, even for a minute. Anwar Sahib during his presentation shed light on various aspects of human life in his own humorous style. Throughout the program, the packed hall was filled with applause and in the end, the audience gave a standing ovation to him. Guests at this occasion included Mr Shaoquett Moselmane, member of NSW Legislative Council, Mr Abdul Majid Yousafani, Consul General of Pakistan in Sydney, highly talented TV artist Uzma Gilani and internationally recognised sculptor and artist from Pakistan, Anjum Ayaz.
Koocha-e-Saqafat following its tradition presented an award to Anwar Sahib as well as to Kamran Mirza, Aussi Forex and Finance; Zafar Ansari, Everyday Travel, Abdul Rahman, Iftikhar Pervaiz and Zahid Hussain for their support in organising the event. Anwar Maqsood presented an award to the chief organiser of this program Mr Javed Nazar. Mr Shaoquett Moselmane, on behalf of the New South Wales Parliament also presented awards to Javed Nazar and Anjum Ayaz for their service to the Art and Culture in Australia. Javed Nazar thanked all guests for making this program a great success and also thanked proprietors of Sada-e-Watan News-
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Anwar Maqsood. paper and Sangat Magazine for their support in promoting this event. The program started and finished strictly on time, a recognition of Koocha-e-Saqafat team effort showcasing the high level of organisational skills in managing this event. The packed lunch was provided by Hafiz Kamran in a very efficient manner.
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LIFESTYLE Western Eagles TRYCricket coaches junior talent NEWS 1-4
AMUST
Faseeha Hashmi Cricket is a beloved sport, enjoyed by millions all over the world. But apart from of Fawad Ahmed and Usman Khawaja, how many other young people of diverse religious and cultural backgrounds have the opportunity to play this great game and rise through its ranks to our represent baggy greens abroad. According to TRYCricket Project Manager and Coordinating Coach Jazeer Nijamudeen, it all starts with nurturing talent from a young age. Over the course of 8 weeks, the Western Eagles Sports Club wrapped up its TRYCricket coaching clinics on 9 April in Truganina. This culminated in a presentation ceremony which delighted the young children with gifts and certificates for their participation. The event organised by Western Eagles TRYCricket with the supported of IMAN Weekend School, Wyndham City Council and Islamic Council of Victoria encouraged junior participation in cricket. Sharing his experience, Jazeer welcomed parents and children to the inaugural ceremony. “This project has been a passion of mine to help our girls and boys,” said Jazeer. “I grew up playing backyard cricket with my brothers (and the game has) taught me many skills from self-sacrificing teamwork to developing strategies and leading a team,” said Jazeer. The cricket field he explains opportunity for young people to make friends with people of diverse backgrounds. This sentiment was replicated by Western Eagles players and club President Paul, shared this childhood experience of cricket. When asked by his parents when he would come back home from the game, cricket
had taught him to respond that “we won the match”. He explained that the nature of the game taught him to appreciate how to appreciate the success of others. The program is all part of an effort to encourage more opportunity for young people. The programs were formulated to focus on developing a child’s basic and essential cricket skills. Developing an understanding of the game at a young age is important in order to encourage and coach young talent. Identify these traits at a young age is important as “famous Australian Captain Steve Waugh first played representative cricket in under 10s” encouraged Jazeer. “We need to encourage our children to make the most of their potential (and) coach them towards a higher level of cricket” encouraged Jazeer. This is important as this helps young people identify their talents and passions at a young age and assist them towards playing at a higher level of cricket. “Cricket is a sport for all Australians regardless of gender, cultural background, religion or ability,” said Jazeer. Muslim girls who prefer conservative clothing were easily accommodated in these games and the clubs were made more inclusive by providing vegetarian and halal food options, avoiding the serving of alcohol and gambling and discourages smoking. Encouraging our children to get involved in sport is an important initiative in order to “helps kids live active and healthy lifestyles away from phone screens, bad habits, obesity and heart disease”, said Jazeer. Fortunately, for those that missed out on the program, due to popular demand, Coaching Clinics will continue to run on Saturday morning. To learn more about these programs, contact TRYCricket Project Manager and Coordinating Coach Jazeer Nijamudeen for further information.
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Australia’s hegemony in the Commonwealth Games continues unabated. In the XXI Commonwealth Games, which concluded on 15 April at the picturesque Carrara Stadium in Gold Coast city, Queensland, Australia, comprising a large contingent of 409 competitors and 184 officials, won 80 gold, 59 silver, and 59 bronze medals triumphantly. The Aussies were very much dominant in swimming with 19 gold, 21 silver and 17 bronze medals. In athletics: 8 gold, 1 silver and 3 bronze medals, and cycling (7 gold, 9 silver and 8 bronze medals). In the XX Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, Australia bagged 49 gold, 42 silver and 46 bronze medals. Australia’s 198 medals in Gold Coast apparently shows how well Australia had prepared to compete in the Commonwealth Games. The sports infrastructure in Australia is fabulous unlike in a majority of Commonwealth countries. Australia has full backing of the Federal and State Governments in terms of equipment support, coaching and funding. A good number of Commonwealth countries do not have these facilities which is evident from the fact that out of 71 Commonwealth countries which participated in Gold Coast, 32 countries could not win even a single medal. The coaches in Australia are pretty committed and deserve rewards from the Federal AUSTRALASIAN MUSLIM TIMES
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Australia’s hegemony continues at Commonwealth Games
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Syed Ali and State governments for putting Australia on a top of world sports. During the XXI Commonwealth Games England came in second place with 45 gold, 45 silver and 46 bronze medals. In third place was India, with 26 gold, 20 silver, and 20 bronze medals while New Zealand had won 15 gold, 16 silver and 15 bronze medals. The Kiwis came in fifth place behind Canada. J S Saini and Tapan Bose, former chief national coaches in India in athletics, and table tennis respectively, told AMUST that a country of over a billion people should have done still better. The sports budget in India is very low compared to many other countries and training facilities are meagre which is pulling back India from participating more effectively in international competitions. The Commonwealth Games are just sports extravaganza for countries which were or are under the British crown. First it was British Empire Games in 1930, 1934, 1938 and 1950. Then it was British Empire and Commonwealth Games in 1954, 1958, 1962, 1966. In 1970 and 1974 it was British Commonwealth Games, and since 1978 it has been called the Commonwealth Games. The real prowess of sportspersons is seen in the Olympic Games. Syed Ali has been writing on cricket for the last forty years. He was the feature writer for Cricketer International, London, for a decade. He played first class cricket and interacted with the world’s leading cricket and hockey players. ISSUE 150 / MAY 2018
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Israeli snipers killing peaceful protesters on Gaza borders
More than 50 Palestinians have been killed and more than 150 seriously injured by Israeli snipers since regular protests and clashes broke out along the Gaza border at the beginning of April. Many of the casualties are children. United Nations special coordinator for the Middle East peace process Nickolay Mladenov wrote on Twitter: “It is OUTRAGEOUS to shoot at children... #Children must be protected from #violence, not exposed to it.” UN chief Antonio Guterres and the European Union have called for an independent investigation into the deaths. Israel has re-
jected such calls, saying its open-fire rules are necessary to protect the border. During the past month, Gazans have staged mostly peaceful rallies along the border to demand the “right of return” to their homes in historical Palestine from which they were driven in 1948 to make way for the Zionist state of Israel. The protests are part of a six-week demonstration until 15 May in order to mark the 70th anniversary of Israel’s establishment, an event Palestinians call “The Catastrophe”.
Malaysian ruling party prepares for a dirty election
Malaysia’s deputy opposition leader, Dr Wan Azizah, addressed a more than 10,000 strong rally in Selangor on Monday 21 April. She has predicted a hung parliament after 9 May election in the backdrop of alleged corruption of the current Prime Minister Najib Razak. Dr Azizah said that Najib and his Barisan
UMMAH
Journalists sent to long prison terms in Turkey
Turkish courts have been sending journalists prison who have been critical of President Tayyip Recep Erdogan’s government to prison, convicting them on ‘terrorism’ charges. The lengthy sentences have added to increasing fears over press freedom, particularly with national elections taking place in June. Human rights groups said the sentences are intended to stifle criticism of the government
Media Scan Ainullah
Nasional ruling coalition is in the fight of its political life. “It is expected that he is going to cheat, and do a lot of things to steal the election,” she has warned. Former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad, 92 is the opposition’s candidate for prime minister and addressed the rally as well.
AMUST
before the snap elections due in June. “These politically motivated sentences are clearly intended to instill fear and silence any form of dissent,” said Milena Buyum, Amnesty International’s Turkey campaigner. “This is a shocking affront to press freedom and for justice in Turkey and sets a chilling precedent for scores of other journalists facing trials on similar trumped-up terrorism-related charges,” she added.
Mossad suspected of killing Palestinian academic
The killing of 35-year-old Palestinian scientist Fadi al-Batsh in the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur has taken the wraps off a covert programme of targeted killings of Palestinians deemed a threat by Israel. Al-Batsh studied electrical engineering in Gaza before going on to earn a PhD in the same subject in Malaysia. He specialised in power systems and energy saving and had published a number of scientific papers on the subject.
Hamas said al-Batsh was an important member of the group and accused Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency of being behind the assassination. According to the Israeli investigative journalist Ronen Bergman, who is one of the foremost experts on Israeli intelligence and author of the book Rise and Kill First, the murder of al-Batsh bears all the hallmarks of a Mossad operation.
ANIC Halal Authority Ensures Iranian President Hassan Rouhani India visit focuses on Muslim Unity Consumer Confidence
The Australian National Imams Council, or ANIC has introduced the ANIC Halal Authority, a leading professional Halal certification body in the industry. The ANIC Halal Authority aims to ensure consumer confidence in all products, in meeting all Islamic requirements. As a branch of ANIC, the Halal board is managed by the highly respected scholar, Dr Mohammad Anas, whose experience in halal certification has covered many years in Australia. MAY 2018 / ISSUE 150
The organization is registered, and approved by the Halal Certifying body, through the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources Australia as well as approved by leading International Halal Agencies. Their goal is to become a reliable, and trustworthy Halal Certifying organization that can reach with the highest national, and international standards. It will ensure that all products are guaranteed suitable for all Muslims to use, and consume, in respect to the Shariah.
The Iranian President Hassan Rouhani made a 3-day state visit to India from 14-16 February 2018. During his visit, he performed his Friday Juma prayers at the famous 17th century Makkah Masjid in the city of Hyderabad, him and his full entourage praying behind the Mosque’s Sunni Imam. Later he gave an
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hour-long speech in Persian focused on Shia and Sunni unity. He also said that Iran seeks brotherly relationship with all Muslim nations of the region, including India. He pointed out that Iran and India share a common historical and cultural relationship beyond political and economic ties.
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Actress Natalie Portman refuses to attend awards ceremony in Israel Faseeha Hashmi Hollywood Oscar-winning actress, Natalie Portman has reportedly backed out of the Genesis Prize ceremony to be held in her honour in Jerusalem. Her comments come just after reports of increasing deadly violence along Israel’s border with Gaza, where the actress has been reportedly distressed over “recent events” in Israel. Although she did not give too much detail regarding her political ringance on her decision, she did state her immediate reason not to attend. “My decision not to attend the Genesis Prize ceremony has been mischaracterized by others.” “Let me speak for myself. I chose not to attend because I did not want to appear as endorsing Benjamin Netanyahu,” said Ms Portman. Ms Portman, who is Jewish and was born in Israel, has reportedly stated that she does not follow a particular political group despite accusations that she has been swayed towards supporting a particular political stance. Ms Portman explained that she supported
her nation of birth, but clearly disapproved of its political stance towards Palestinians. “Israel,” she said, “was created exactly 70 years ago as a haven for refugees from the Holocaust. But the mistreatment of those suffering from today’s atrocities is simply not in line with my Jewish values. Because I care about Israel, I must stand up against violence, corruption, inequality, and abuse of power.” One form of protest is the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement which seeks to cease international support for Israel’s occupation of Palestinians. The movement seeks to pressure Israel to abide by the two-state solution and Palestinians’ right for self-determination. Ms Portman said, “I am not part of the BDS movement and do not endorse it. Like many Israelis and Jews around the world, I can be critical of the leadership in Israel without wanting to boycott the entire nation.” The decision provides much need show of support for the Palestinian people, particularly as women take a lead role in current protests, labelled by many as the “Women’s March of Gaza”. It has been said that along Gaza’s border a noticeably different crowd has emerged as a
large number of women and girls have been actively participating on a scale not seen before. Sadly, this has also meant that many women have been wounded in the violence. Ms Portman is the latest celebrity to wade her opinion, amongst a string of numerous
other actors, musicians and artists that have been critical of Israel’s actions against Palestinians. Also this year, the musician Lorde ignited outrage when she cancelled her concert in Tel Aviv.
Kashmir: an issue of humanity versus brutality Hanif Bismi Kashmir is simply not an issue of dispute between India and Pakistan but today it is an issue of humanity versus brutality. Kashmir, the largest militarised zone in the world with more than 700,000 Indian boots carrying and using lethal weapons with impunity under the legal protection known as AFSPA, Armed Forces Special Powers Act. This gives Indian forces a free hand to do what they will without any accountability. AFSPA enables the military to carry out gross human rights abuses that include enforced disappearances, torture, rape, sexual abuse and cold blooded murder. The latest series of violence began on 1 April 2018 when Indian military unleashed forces in the name of ‘operation against militants’ locally known as crackdown in Shopian and Anantang district of Kashmir Valley, killing 13 and wounding 70 Kashmiris. When protesters took to the streets against the atrocities committed by Indian forces, the army fired at them with pellet guns and rifles using live ammunition into the unarmed crowd in the village of Draged-Sugan. People came out in large numbers throughout the valley to protest, more deaths and injuries. Numaan, a university student who was wounded said, “We support the freedom fighters against Indian occupation.” Numaan reflects the sentiments of a generation who grew up seeing only miseries of curfews and deaths. The protest spread throughout the valley and families continued to receive dead bodies while hospitals and doctors were struggling to cope with the injured ones. The of-
ficials confirmed that the injured sustained bullet wounds or pellet injuries. While world was observing Easter Monday, Indian-occupied Kashmir was bleeding. Indian forces continue to use pellets in order to blind a generation in Kashmir. Both pro-Indian ruling parties as well as pro-freedom parties’ leadership raised their voice against the use of pellet guns by the Indian military. Indian army claims that it is a ‘non-lethal weapon’ but doctors treating the pellet victims say it maims a person forever. By now, the valley has had thousands of pellet victims from children to the elderly. Apple-rich southern districts of Kashmir became volatile after 21 year old Burhan Muzzafar Wani, a charismatic youth was murdered by the Indian Army on 8 July 2016 while he was spending time with family after Eid in his village Tral. Today Burhan is a hero whose name is visible everywhere on the walls of Kashmir. According to Sydney Morning Herald, Kashmiri youths have displayed open solidarity with pro-independent fighters despite
the worst counter-insurgency operations in recent times. Thousands gather to attend the funerals when the authorities hand over the body bags. Thousands of Kashmiris hit the streets demanding an end to Indian rule over Kashmir. Most Kashmiris support the freedom movement and participate in street protests against Indian occupation. Atta Malik says that India is using brutal military approach for what is a political and humanitarian problem. Kashmiris either will die or be forced to pick up arms, said Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, a charismatic voice of freedom movement. As usual, the authorities stopped train services and cut mobile and internet connections to stop anti-India protests, a normal practice in Kashmir. Government ordered all schools and colleges are closed to avoid such anti-India protest. Meenakshi Ganguly writes that since in India’s current hyper-nationalist environment, many right-wing groups consider any support for Kashmiri human rights to be an-
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ti-national. Life in Kashmir has changed, women in the Valley were safer and people had safer marriage functions and nightlife. Marriages were celebrated traditionally during late night until 18 May 1990. On that fateful night Mubeena Akhtar (18) a bride was gang raped by Indian Border Security Forces (BSF) on her wedding night along with her pregnant aunt Amina while they were returning home with the barat (marriage party) on bus number JKF 1373. The Guardian has reported quoting International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) intelligence that India operates several torture camps throughout Kashmir Valley. Today history of Kashmir is written with the blood of innocent Kashmiris as rape, torture and murder continue.
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AMUST lets you reach thousands of people all over the world with its website and email newsletter advertising. AMUST also has a strong online presence that includes social media such as Facebook, Twitter, Google+ ISSUE 150 / MAY 2018
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My personal encounters with late Dr Irfan Ahmad Khan Zia Ahmad
Dr Irfan Ahmad Khan, an international figure in Islamic and interfaith circles passed away on Monday 3 April 2018 in Chicago, USA at the age of 86. The funeral prayers were held the next day attended by hundreds of people of all faiths who were touched by his charming personality. My brother-in-law, Usaid Khalil who was in the US at the time attending ICNA annual convention, managed to reach Chicago to visit his family the next day and conveyed the condolences of our family and friends from down under. Irfan Saheb is survived by his wife, Mrs Shamim Khan, sons Farhan and Salman, daughters Nusba, Parveen, Husna, Bushra, Saba and many grandchildren. He lived passionately by the Quran, learning, understanding, explaining, teaching, writing and propagating its universal message. Irfan Saheb authored three books on the subject “An Introduction to Understanding the Quran,” “An Exercise in Understanding the Quran” and “Reflections on the Quran” and was a globe trotter giving lectures, conducting Quranic classes and mentoring students all over the world including Australia. He was born in 1931 at Saharanpur, UP, India and was educated and taught Philosophy at the Aligarh Muslim University. He belonged to the younger breed of Western educated Jamaat-e-Islami members like Dr Zainul Abedin, Professor Nejatullah Siddiqui and Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad who attended Sanvi Darsgah in Rampur to study Islam after India gained independence. In 1974 he moved to USA, residing in Chicago and completed a Masters degree followed by PhD in Philosophy from the University of Illinois and taught philosophy at various institutions in the country. Long before 9/11, he initiated interfaith dialogue and understanding between people of diverse faiths. He was founder and president of the World Council of Muslims for Interfaith Relations, an emeritus board member of the Parliament of the World’s Religions, founding president of the Interreligious Engagement Project for the 21st Century and director of the Association for Quranic Understanding. In the words of his three outstanding students whom he mentored namely Professor Mohammad Ahmadullah Siddiqi, Professor Mohammad Muqim and Imam Abdul Malik Mujahid, Irfan Saheb put emphasis on the following: • Understanding the Quran in Arabic directly is critical for each Muslim individually. • All humanity is one brotherhood. He invented the term Co-Ubudiyah for it. • Sincere service to all in need is a prime
duty of each Muslim. He will go at length helping people in needs. • Standing up for justice and aligning with the oppressed is critical for Muslims. That is one reason he lived mostly among African-Americans. • Working with neighbors of other faith is critical to transforming the society towards Godliness. This was the reason he was so active in interfaith. • Men and women must work as equals. As per sunnah, all guests at his home, men and women will sit together for meals as well as to study the Quran. He was one of the closest colleague of my father, Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad amongst members of Jamaat-e-Islami together with Dr Zainul Abedin and Professor Nejatullah Siddiqui. Always on his toes, mobile, humble man, formally dressed in his sherwani and topi, he attended a number of conferences and conducted courses sometimes with Abbu in India, USA, UK, Malaysia and Australia and pushing Abbu’s wheelchair from venue to venue himself, an act that was highly appreciated by Abbu. I have vague childhood memories of him during the early fifties in Aligarh. But my first formal encounter with him was in 1970 when I joined Aligarh Muslim University after moving from Kashmir at the age of 17. He had a long two hour discussion with me and emphasised the responsibility of learning Quran and thus Islam and being an Islamic activist in addition to excel in formal university studies. Since then I considered him as my mentor and after moving to Australia in 1971, I constantly kept in touch with him and met him at various occasions. In 1981 I attended the annual convention of MSA of US & Canada in Indiana where the organisation was transformed into Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) while representing Australian Federation of Muslim Students’ Association (AFMSA) in my capacity as its External Secretary. I met Irfan Saheb at the conference and later together with other overseas guests visited other US cities as well as Chicago. I remember sitting in a reconciliation meeting between two groups passionately divided on the issue of Ramadan and Eid dates, chaired by Maulana Yusuf, Ameer of Jamat-e-Islami Hind. Amongst heated discussions, Irfan Saheb sensibly commented, “we are the people of Islamic movement and we have many more important challenges to face that get bogged down on moon-sighting.” This was Irfan Saheb at his best with his cool mind and approach to problem solving and dispute resolution. I toured US again in 1992 together with my family travelling all over US and Canada in a seven bed motorhome. I visited numerous Islamic centres, mosques, family and friends arriving at intimated specific times to various destinations in our motor home.
Dr Irfan Ahmad Khan and his wife Mrs Shamim Khan. MAY 2018 / ISSUE 150
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Dr Irfan Ahmad Khan. I informed in writing to Irfan Saheb of my visit to his home in Chicago a day before Eidul Adha, but he forgot to inform his family. His house was full of wedding guests since his son was getting married next day after the Eid prayers. This made Mrs Irfan to panic a little as to where we all would stay. After dinner with his family, Irfan Saheb suggested that rather than going to a motor home park at late night, we park our big camper at the small carpark at Muslim Community Centre MCC that suited us well. Irfan Saheb knocked at 2 am at our motor home and asked me to come with him to do some grocery shopping and take the wedding dress for the bride to a colleague’s home where the bride was staying. He explained on the way that the bride was in fact a revert from Sikh religion and her family was trying all they could to stop this wedding against her will. The wedding took place peacefully at MCC next day after Eid prayers and we had the opportunity to meet a large number of Irfan Saheb’s family, friends, Islamic and interfaith colleagues, Afro-American friends particularly women. We stayed in Chicago for the next four days where Irfan Saheb organised our motor home to be parked and connected at Islamic College of Chicago. He kept visiting us daily and I leaned of his people-skills and capacity to organise and make logistical arrangements for any tasks most successfully. Irfan Saheb visited us here in Sydney in 2004 invited by Abbu to conduct a two week course in the study of Quran. He lived with us and used to go daily on morning walks holding my hands to the surprise and giggles of my daughters. Irfan Saheb was a lovely man, a true humanitarian, highly approachable by young
and old, men or women of any faith or no faith. May he rest in peace and may Allah reward him for the great services he rendered during his lifetime. The following are the selected two messages I received from him, one for his passion for teaching and learning of Quran and the other in response to the publication of AMUST that he regularly received from me. On 10 Nov 2012, at 9:05 am, Irfan Khan<khanairfan@gmail.com> wrote: Dear Zia, I am trying to network the Qur’anic scholars globally. If Muslim people will come back to the Arabic Qur’an, they will regain the leadership of humankind. Understanding the Book in changing situations, with our growing abilities, through direct touch with the arabic text afresh. Your father has written a book which I also want to publish! Irfan On 23 Jul 2016, at 1:24 am, Irfan Khan <khanairfan@gmail.com> wrote: Dear Zia Ahmad, CONGRATULATIONS! I make du’a that Allah helps you in making further progress in serving humankind in general and Australia in particular and develop even better communication within and without your own community! Irfan Irfan Ahmad Khan, Ph.D. Director, Association for Quranic Understanding, Markham, IL, USA. Zia Ahmad is the Editor-in-Chief of the Australasian Muslim Times AMUST.
Dr Irfan Ahmad Khan worked to build relationships with other religions and interfaith groups. WWW.AMUST.COM.AU
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Black Panther movie showing in Saudi Arabia Faseeha Hashmi When the light dimmed and the popcorn came out, it seemed an applause had erupted as the first private screening of the Hollywood blockbuster “Black Panther” launched towards the middle of April in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The private screening was organised in Riyadh, as an invitation-only event, which was attended by both men and women. Public movie theatres have now begun operation, as movie theatres are currently being built all across major cities. For many, this development marked one of the clearest moments of change to sweep the country in decades for the ultraconservative kingdom. It is all part of a major overhaul to the current system, which will soon allow women to drive, go to concerts and fashion shows, and now tuck into a bucket of popcorn in their local cinemas. For many, this represents a new age for the country. “It’s a new era, a new age. It’s that simple. Things are changing, progress is happening. We’re opening up and we’re catching up with everything that’s happening in the world,” said Rahaf Alhendi, who attended the private movie showing. However, these developments will still be subject to government oversight and censorship. Some movies may be delayed in gain-
ing censorship approval. For instance, the highly popular movie ‘Black Panther’ received no censorship to violent scenes but the final scene which involved a kiss was axed. Such censorship, however, may be necessary given that many within Saudi society view such entertainment with scorn. For many Saudi clerics, Western movies and even Arabic films made in Egypt and Lebanon are considered to be sinful. Neverthe-
less, the transformation is a major historic moment for the country. The expected revenue from these developments are also highly anticipated by the government and private enterprise, as it is expected to contribute more than 90 billion riyals ($24 billion) to the economy and create more than 30,000 jobs by 2030. The kingdom says there will be 300 cinemas with around 2,000 screens built by 2030. Yet, to adhere to the kingdom’s norms on
gender segregation, there will be some modifications to the usual movie experience. Saudi Minister of Culture and Information Awwad Alawwad said that, “We want to ensure the movies are in line with our culture and respect for values. Meanwhile, we want to provide people with a beautiful show and really enjoy watching their own movies.” The new movie theatres will also come equipped with prayer rooms to accommodate the daily Muslim prayer times.
Representations of Islam and Muslims in the Western Media
Dr Jan A Ali
The media is a powerful social agent, with the capacity to influence individual disposition, attitude, and behaviour. Its influence is often deep and far-reaching with the potential to impact on both individuals and groups. Minority diaspora communities such as Muslims in the West often suffer from negative caricatures and portrayals in the media and in the process become victims of exclusionary pressures because the caricatures and portrayals implicitly project Muslims as having “alien” characteristics which do not correspond with Western mainstream values and ethos. Generally, the Western media’s approach to Islam is “orientalist” that essentialises Islam. There is always a recurring language
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such as “Islamic terrorism” and “Muslims extremists” used by the media which ultimately paints all Muslims and Islam with a single brush and in the process devalue and depletes Muslims and Islam’s rich diversity. The essentialist portrayal of Muslims and their faith constructs them as the “alien other”, as puerile, and even uncivilised ethnic groups who need to be securitised and managed. The negative media portrayals of Islam and Muslims have been constant. The basis of this is in the Western understanding of Islam which is Westocentric or Eurocentric. This understanding is developed within the framework of Islam-West relations which is more about the rivalry and political hegemony than about religion per se. Since the events of 11 September and subsequent bombings in London, Madrid, and Bali, Muslims and their faith have come under intense media scrutiny particularly in the West. They have progressively been perceived as culturally alien. Muslim immigrants are projected as peo-
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ple whose culture and values are incompatible with the Western way of living and are a threat to political stability and national security. This kind of understanding of Islam and Muslims is the result of both international and local events. The events form the basis of the view that for Muslims, even those born in the West, religion and politics are interconnected and that Islam is anti-modernity bent on destroying the modern West. International terrorist attacks were undertaken by locally born Muslims such as Madrid and London bombers and the local crimes committed by locally born Muslims such as the 2000 Sydney “Lebanese gang rape” produce a perception that Islam is a purely political ideology and is working towards the destruction of the West. Media research has shown that in the past several decades Muslims have been seen as a separate group from mainstream Australian society and that an underlying assumption exists that consider Islam as a foe because it is incompatible not only with Western values and ideals but the entire Western civilizational project. In Australia, for instance, the events have ignited intense debates relating to Muslim women wearing the niqab (face covering) [often spoken in the media as burqa – a loose garment covering the body from head to toe] and the implementation of shari’ah (Islamic law). The media have been portraying niqab-wearing Muslim women as submissive, uneducated, oppressed, and victims of male violence who need to be rescued and liberated from patriarchal cruelty and shari’ah being draconian and archaic with no place for it in the modern world.
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This is clearly a misrepresentation of Muslims and their faith and it can be said that this kind of misrepresentation has the potential to fuel racism and Islamophobia which have roots in cultural representations of the “other”. It has become typical of some sections of Australian media and certain politicians to portray Australian Muslims and Islam in a pejorative and derogatory way. Some scholars argue that this lead to constructing Australian Muslims as the new “other”. The impact of this has had a detrimental effect on the lives of many Australian Muslims straining the relationship between them and the wider Australian community with many in Australia questioning Muslim commitment and loyalty to the country. In doing so the media reproduces a set of images of Muslims and Islam and these are often images in which Muslims and Islam are depicted as “Other”. They are described as fundamentalists, religious fanatics, terrorists, suicide bombers, and violent. These descriptions are given credence by linking Islam and Muslims to certain contexts such as war, conflict, violence, and disunity and end up becoming Muslim stereotypes. Since Islam and Muslims are presented with these negative descriptions they are then continuingly vilified in the broader society. Dr Jan A. Ali is a Senior Lecturer in Islam and Modernity in the School of Humanities and Communication Arts at Western Sydney University. He is a Sociologist of Religion specializing in Islam with a research focus on existential Islam. ISSUE 150 / MAY 2018
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Al-Beruni: astronomer, linguist and geographer Professor Irfan Shahid
Arabic. He believed that Arabic was a very was prevalent during that time. He said that suitable language for scientific writings. He proof and reason is the soul of any rational also translated Sanskrit books in Arabic and research. He wrote excellent books on a large numArabic books in Sanskrit. Al-Beruni dedicated his written works to ber of subjects almost 70 on astronomy, 20 his mentors and various rulers who helped on geography, 20 on mathematics and 10o on history. He also wrote in study and research. on sociology, medicine, He travelled to Central Asia, Iran and Afghan...proof and reason physics, chemistry, geology, mineralogy, etc. istan and the Middle is the soul of any His most important East. He came to India books are Athar al-baqiwith Sultan Mahmood rational research. ya and al-Quranal-khaliGhaznavi and spent ya, one of the best sourcmany years in India doces of information on the umenting its history, geancient history of various nations; al-Qanun ography, philosophy and sociology. In his last year, he became frail and weak. al-Masudi, on mathematics and astronomy; A series of illness attacked him, and he died Tahrir malil Hind or Tarikh al-Hind, the at Ghazna in Afghanistan in 422AH/1050AD most important book on ancient and medieval India; and kitabal-jamahir on mineralat the age of 80 years. ogy. Contributions He is considered the founder of Indology, Al-Beruni was a rational scientist, he believed in objectivity, experimentation and study of Indian philosophy, religion and culproof. He condemned superstition which ture.
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The name of Al-Beruni is counted among great astronomers, mathematicians and travellers of the worlds. He spent most of his life travelling and exploration geographical information. Al-Beruni was one of the genius minds of all times. He is frequently quoted in various books and articles by western scholars and researchers. Al-Beruni has authored numerous books on the various subjects like philosophy, history, chronology, mathematics, astronomy, geography, geology, physics and medicine including travel guides. Some historian estimate that he had written close to 180 books on various subjects. Life Al-Beruni’s full name was Abu Rayhan Muhammad ibn Ahmad. He was born in Khwarizm, Central Asia in 362 AH/973AD. He received the title al-Beruni due to his locomotive behaviour. The literal meaning of al-Beruni is an outsider. He was so fortunate enough to study under the supervision of Abu Nazar Mansur Ibn Ali Iraqi, the prince of Khwarizm who was a great scholar of his time. He helped al-Beruni to travel various places in order to acquire knowledge. He also received mentoring from a renowned scholar, Muhammad ibn Ishaq. At an early age, he mastered various languages like Arabic, Persian, Sanskrit, Greek, Syriac and Hebrew. Al- Beruni authored most of his books in
Some of the ideas which he presented a thousand years ago were discovered in modern times. He deduced values experimentally for specific gravity of metals; knew that the speed of light was immensely greater than of sound; believed that earth attracts everything towards its center; discussed geometrical methods of trisecting angles and eclipse of the moon; calculated the value of the pie; invented calculus of finite difference; simplified stereographic projection in astronomy. He measured the earth’s radius at 3,939 miles and circumference at 24,778 miles which were the most accurate measurements until modern times. 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
A unique way to study Quran and Sunnah Zaakiy Siddiqui
Study Plan
The Australian Mushaf Uswah Academy (AMUA) has been conducting the study of Quran and Sunnah together in a complimentary way as the main resources in understanding Islam. The terminology Mushaf for the Quran and Uswah for Sunnah and Hadith is used for this unique approach to the study of Islam and its practice in daily life. The main idea for using this method is that Islam is a worldview and not merely a religion. It can be considered a religion only in the sense that Allah is The Being that Islam revolves around. Announcement This year we are changing our style of involvement in the study course. The usual lectures on Uswah and Mushaf will be carried on more for self-study instead of discussions in the class. Every class consists of 2 periods. In the first period, we are going to discuss the issues pertaining to the events that occurred in the life of the Prophet during the Madinan era from 0-11AH for the foundation and establishment of the Islamic ideaology, and the second period of the class will discuss and explain the relevant reference of the events in the Quran. Observers are welcome join and contribute with any relevant commentary. For more information, please contact students@amua.org.au. Zaakiy Siddiqui is the secretary of The Australian Mushaf Uswah Academy (AMUA) MAY 2018 / ISSUE 150
Period Events 0-1AH Prophet’s Settlement Brotherhood between Muhajireen and Ansar Constitution of a Federated State 2AH Change of Qibla Battle of Badr 3AH Battle of Uhud 5AH Battle of the Trench 6AH Treaty of Hudaibiya (March 628AC) 7AH The Jews of Madinah and the fall of Khyber The special messengers to rulers of adjacent countries 8AH The violation of the Hudaibiyah Treaty and The Conquest of Makkah The Battle of Hunain 9AH Declaration of Immunity 10AH The Battle of Tubuk The Farewell Pilgrimage 11AH The Last Journey
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A new groundbreaking work on Quran and Astronomy AMUST
Masood Ahmed My book, Ancient Astronomy: Allah’s Narrative describes a journey of imagination, discussion and pondering, from my home in India to downunder, the land of the red kangaroos. This work owes its making to many relentless discourses between belief and skepticism with my friend Peter Morris and thus was uniquely spun. My heartfelt thanks to the Kaurna people, aborigines of Adelaide for their hospitality and great friendship. As an immigrant with an Indian-Muslim background, I was blessed with few precious acquaintances with my first ever atheistic faceoffs in Australia. Here, I learned from the agnostics among Australians their understanding and take on adverse effects of subscribing to any religion and belief in general. Eventually, it led to the inception of this book with Astronomy as the science that is scientifically explored to credit the existence of God, the Creator of the universe. Ancient Astronomy: Allah’s Narrative tackles narrators of science of our age such as Lawrence M Krauss, Neil deGrasse Tyson, Sean M Carroll and Richard Dawkins and would be appealing to students of science, people of various fragmented Religions, atheists or otherwise. The book is a lucid illustration uncovering the mystery surrounding the face of God and faith. It explores religion as the way of life and science to appraise its quality. This book answers the trending assertive of naturalists (atheists) who claim that
nothing from God has thus far reached us. It takes the reader through the sequences from the very beginnings of the formation of earth, its surroundings and the glitz in the dominant sky. It points out the unique position of Prophet Abraham (a) as a peer astronomer who earned a covenant of long poured out blessings on mankind and to whom astronomers today owe their dues. What this covenant means to human societies today and what is the argument of God, the book scans the promise of God to nations and His bestowal of hegemony and legitimacy to rule. How are we performing amidst influential alien jinns (satans) and gatekeepers of heaven, the angels? A mind-blowing telecast is drawn of jinns and the house of angels in the backdrop of cosmos that surrounds us. The book discusses the purposes for the grand scale of the universe as wide and as incomprehensible as it is and why it is at this cosmic scale is derived from the Quran.
Grappling scientific mysteries of time travel and fathoming our next home in the celestial patch, it dispels great misconceptions associated with doomsday that it is not the collapse of the universe as wrongly thought, but it is a collapse of sun’s neighborhood and its neighboring stars. Clearly, it is a book tailor-made to serve people of Christian, Jewish and Muslim faith and it gives reasonings to justify faith in God. More about them at allahsnarrative.com. Masood Ahmed was born and raised in Bangalore and now lives in Adelaide. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and has been designing commercial aircraft structures such as of Boeing and Bombardier. Bred of Abrahamic belief system, he is well versed in brewing clear analysis of the language of the Quran. He is now discovering writing to advance the cause of God as his passion.
Ancient Astronomy: Allah’s Narrative Author: Masood Ahmed Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing. Pages: 336. Availability: Amazon.com
Book Review: Us and Them Muslim-Christian Relations and Cultural Harmony in Australia Aisha Mohsin In recent years, the Muslim identity has emerged as an affirmative blend of Australian and Islamic culture in Australia. The contemporary Islamic culture is now perceived to have its own unique niche and prominence in a multicultural society. The book by Dr Abe Ata, Us and Them: Muslim-Christian Relations and Cultural Harmony in Australia, delivers an excellent account and perspective on what it means to be
a Muslim in a growing multicultural, multi-religious, technological contemporary Australia. The book serves as an excellent resource of essays, both varied and interdisciplinary in nature, that seek to challenge the images of Islam held by both xenophobic Westerners and extremist Muslims. “Australia displays an outstanding record in displaying tolerance and in accommodating an incredibly diverse population. While the cultural and historical differences between Christian and Muslim communities in our society are too great to make a complete reconciliation
easily achieved, given the alternatives, a creative dialogue must continue,” says Dr Ata. The broad and diverse perspectives covered in this project are important and topical and have not been gathered before in published form. They are written by contributors who are members of Muslim community and outsiders, lay and religious, academic and non-pro-
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fessional; Australian and beyond. This in many ways widens the frame of reference, effectiveness of argumentation and style of criticism. About the author: Dr Abe W Ata graduated in psychology at the American University and was nominated as a delegate to the United Nations’ World Youth Assembly in New York. He completed his doctorate at Melbourne University in 1980. He was an Honorary Fellow at the Australian Catholic University (2000-2010) and is currently an Honorary Fellow at Deakin University. His cross-cultural training background, multidisciplinary approach and sensitivity in conducting and interpreting a wide range of research projects are demonstrated in his publication of 15 books including Us and Them: Christian-Muslim Relations and Social Harmony in Australia (2009).
Publisher: Australian Academic Press; General edition. Pages: 168. Scan and add us to your contacts
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The Covenants of Compassion from the Messenger of Mercy Part 2 Dr John Andrew Morrow Read part one: https://wp.me/p4ICdM-4rM Many of the Covenants of the Prophet can be found, in part and in whole, in classical Muslim sources. If some were not included in complete form it is because the originals were still in existence. Some of them were in the hands of the communities that had received them from the Prophet. Copies of the Covenants of the Prophet have been preserved in Christian monasteries in Egypt, Palestine, Syria, Turkey, Armenia, and Persia. Others were passed down through priestly lines in Jewish and Zoroastrian communities in Egypt, Yemen, Persia, and India. And yet others were preserved as sacred relics in the treasuries of the Caliphs, Sultans, and Shahs of Islam. The Covenants of the Prophet Muhammad (s) were treated as genuine by the four rightly-guided Caliphs, the Umayyads, the ‘Abbasids, the Fatimids, the Ayyubids, the Mamluks, the Safavids, and the Ottomans. They have been authenticated by hundreds of Muslim authorities from the Sunni, Shiite, and Sufi traditions along with hun-
dreds of non-Muslim scholars. The Covenants of the Prophet are recognized by Pope Francis, Patriarch Bartholomew, and Patriarch Bartholomew III, as well as the Holy Fathers from the monasteries of St Catherine, Simonopetra, and St George, among many others. They are officially supported by major Muslim organizations, including the Islamic Society of North America. Readers who are interested in the history of transmission of the Covenants of the Prophet can refer to “The Provenance of the Prophet’s Covenant” which appear in volume 2 of Islam and the People of the Book: Critical Studies on the Covenants of the Prophet. The study tracks provides a meticulous study of hundreds of references to the Covenants of the Prophet over the past 1400 years. The claim that Christians fabricated the Covenants of the Prophet has no credence as the surviving copies were issued, signed, sealed, notarized, and authenticated by the political and religious leaders of the Muslim world; namely, by the Caliphs, Sultans, Shahs, along with their Grand Viziers, Muftis, and Chief Jurists.
In fact, it was customary for Muslim authorities to renew the Covenants of the Prophet on a yearly basis. Copies of the Covenants of the Prophet, in both Arabic and in translation, were pro-
vided by the Caliphs, Sultans, and Shahs to the Christian communities under their rule. Sultan ‘Abd al-Hamid, the last Caliph of Islam, renewed the Prophet’s covenant with St Catherine’s Monastery in 1904.
Abating climate change from the ground up CHANGING TIMES Simon Harrison
MAY 2018 / ISSUE 150
that is the contribution FMNR may have to This is reflected in what World Vision the multi-faith approach to climate change, International President and CEO Kevin operating as FMNR does in multi-faith com- Jenkins said in World Visions 2016 Annual munities and regions. Report: To explain: the more immediate conse“Addressing hunger is a moral imperative quences of climate change are and will be, for major faith traditions, (...) faith leaders experienced in the regions of the world and community; including Christians, Musextending from just North of the tropic of lims and other faiths, are highly committed cancer through to the tropic of Capricorn. A to responding to the needs in their midst”. region where FMNR can assist the most. For Catholics, Pope Francis’ Encyclical The cruellest irony is that this broad band sets out Catholic belief in the sanctity of the encompasses most of the developing, and planet. economically poorer Indeed the similarities parts of our world and afbetween His Holiness fects peoples of all faiths the Popes 2015 Encycand of no faith. lical on Climate Change Islam and This ‘middle band’ of and the Declaration at the planet is also home to the International Islamic Christianity do populations identifying Climate Change Symnot differentiate as being of the Islamposium in Istanbul repic traditions, some 1.84 resent a call to arms in as to faith when billion people, or 75% of respect of climate abatethe middle band. ment: we are custodians it comes to the The band includes alof the planet, our obliissues of the most all of Africa, the gation is the welfare of entire Middle East and the planet and all living developing world significant parts of the things on it. Asia Pacific region: those The Encyclical referidentifying as being of ences Romans and Genthe Islamic tradition constitute 49% of the esis: population of Africa, 90% of the Middle “This is why the earth herself, burdened East and 65% of the Asia-Pacific region. and laid waste, is among the most abandoned Islam and Christianity do not differenti- and maltreated of our poor; she “groans in ate as to faith when it comes to the issues of travail” (Rom 8:22). We have forgotten that the developing world, particularly where it we ourselves are dust of the earth (cf. Gen comes to issues of sustainability and/or cli- 2:7); our very bodies are made up of her elemate abatement. ments, we breathe her air and we receive life
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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
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By 1983, Australian Tony Rinaudo had already spent 3 years in the southern fringes of the Sahara Desert helping poor and famine plagued communities develop sustainable agriculture. Tony was also, by his efforts and his voice, spreading the word of God. During that time in Africa, this unassuming man of faith faced suspicion and hostility in many quarters and his ‘day job’ of replanting forestry had too frequently ended in failure. Many of us, if we are honest, wouldn’t have made it past the first month. During that period Tony experienced a literal roadside revelation that has subsequently impacted millions of people across Africa and parts of Asia. The revelation being that, when it came to parched land reforestation, regeneration was the key and not replanting. He found that many of the trees were simply dormant beneath the ground, their vast root systems still alive - in some cases a century or more after the trees had disappeared. The method to regenerate worked and more than just worked it could have a global impact. Fast forward 35 years later and Tony’s Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR) has built upon that revelation and is now a Division within World Vision having undertaken work in 24 countries across Africa and Asia. It has developed 3 regional support offices and is a technical implementation partner within the African Forest Landscape Restoration Initiative. FMNR is also on the cusp of being a real global offering representing” a low cost, sustainable land restoration technique that combats poverty and hunger amongst poor subsistence farmers in developing countries and creates resilience to climate extremes”: http://fmnrhub.com.au/. Its potential for thought leadership is as big as its achievements to date. Something else is also being revealed, and
and refreshment from her water.” In a similar vein the preservation of the planet’s health and the sustainability of the environment runs through the Quran and the Hadiths respectively: “We recognize the corruption (fasād) that humans have caused on the Earth due to our relentless pursuit of economic growth and consumption. Its consequences have included Soil erosion, deforestation and desertification” also: “The world is sweet and verdant. [you are ] stewards in it, and He sees how you acquit yourselves.” (Hadīth). What Tony Rinaudo has done is not to just regenerate forestry and not just given communities a chance he has highlighted the fact that in times of global crisis we are all God’s children and our faiths bind us to the challenge more than it divides: Just look what you’ve started Mr Rinaudo.
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Royal Commission on Banking and Financial Service Providers FINANCE Dr Abul Jalaluddin
The Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia established a Royal Commission on 14 December 2017 for an inquiry into the conduct of banks, insurers, financial services providers and superannuation funds. It will also consider how well equipped Australian regulators are to identify and address misconduct in the industry. The Commission is tasked to submit its interim report no later than 30 September 2018 and the final report of the inquiry with recommendations no later than 1 February 2019. Australia has one of the strongest and most stable financial systems in the world and hence, the outcome is expected to be the best experience for customers. All Australians have the right to be treated honestly and fairly in their dealings with banking, superannuation and financial services providers. Financial planning and advice alone is a significant part of the Commission’s inquiry. There are in excess of 25,000 finan-
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cial planners in Australia. More than 2 million Australians pay a combined $4.6 billion a year for financial advice. Findings of Royal Commission So far, the findings of the Commission have been shocking, depraved and unscrupulous which sent shockwaves through the industry, politics and the public in general. These revelations include a bribery and fraud ring in Western Sydney bank branches; myriad of cases around inappropriate lending to customers including issuing a loan to a problem gambler; failing to sack a financial adviser who provided poor advice to a nurse which led her to believe she could borrow $2 million to set up a bed and breakfast; charging financial advice clients “fees for no service” in cases where they acquired the clients from retiring advisers; misleading corporate regulators in 20 occasions; charging fees from the estates of death clients for up to 10 years after their death; redrafting independent legal advice from a reputable law firm several times including scrubbing out a CEO’s name; having sub-standard systems to identify errors and delaying notifications to corporate regulators; failing to get accurate information prior to issuing loans to individuals; selling junk insurance on credit cards to people and paying commissions to mortgage brokers after knowing that it could result in poor
customer outcomes. The Banking Business The bombshells revealed in the Royal Commission stem from conflicts between the Westminster banking system and the recent phenomenon of wealth management businesses. For centuries, banks accept deposits from general public seeking a safe custody for their money. Banks pool the money and lend it to people they assess could eventually repay the money safely. Bankers make their money by charging the borrower an interest rate slightly above what they have to pay to depositors. The banking business of financial intermediation changed in Australia in and around the year 2000 when Australian banks decided to enter the wealth management, financial advice, insurance companies and superannuation funds, creating a significant change in the industry. A wave of takeovers ensued where the
Commonwealth Bank acquired Colonial First State, Westpac Banking Corporation swallowed BT and National Australia Bank ate MLC. Due to the seriousness of the issues revealed in this Royal Commission, there is currently a notable call from the industry pioneers and politicians for radical reforms forcing banks to sell the financial advice and wealth management businesses. Basically, bankers should provide banking services and wealth managers should engage in wealth creation in the market place, avoiding potential conflicts of interest in these two separate lines of business. This proposed reform would prevent enormous financial harm and create much better value for all customers in the Australian financial services industry.
impotent to date etc. Now, in late 2017, the EUCJ heard the following matter: Advocate General’s Opinion in Case C-372/16 Press and Information Soha Sahyouni v Raja Mamisch. Mr Raja Mamisch and Mrs Soha Sahyouni, who hold both Syrian and German citizenship, were both residents in Germany. The couple married in 1999 in the Syrian city of Homs. In 2013, Mr Mamisch expressed his desire to get divorced, his representative pronounced the required formula before a religious court in Syria, which granted the divorce. The divorce was ‘private’ in so far as it is based not on a constitutive decision of a court or other public authority, but on a declaration of intent of the spouses (a Talak), in this case unilateral and followed by a merely declarative act of a foreign authority. Subsequently, Mrs Sahyouni signed a declaration acknowledging that she had received all the payments which, according to religious law, were due to her under the marriage contract and on the basis of the unilateral divorce instigated by her husband and she thereby released her husband from all obligations to her. Mr Mamisch then applied to have the Shariah divorce recognised in Germany. That application was granted by a Higher Regional Court in Munich, holding, in particular, that the ‘Rome III’ Regulation on the law applicable to divorce covers that type of application and that, under that regulation, the divorce at issue was governed by Syrian law. The Rome III Regulation was implemented in 2010 for the enhanced cooperation in the area of the law applicable to divorce and legal separation is a regulation concerning the applicable law regarding divorce valid in 17 EU countries. The Regulation dictates which law should be used in cross-border divorces in Europe. Mrs Sahyouni contested that recognition of the divorce, which was referred to the Court of Justice several questions relating to the interpretation of the ‘Rome III’ Regulation. In his Opinion, the Advocate General of
the EUCJ noted first of all that the ‘Rome III’ Regulation lays down the rules governing conflicts of applicable laws in matters of divorce in the participating Member States, without governing the recognition of decisions on divorce which have already been made. While this seems a bit technical, what it means is that the Advocate General considered that the ‘Rome III’ Regulation does not cover divorces which are declared without a constitutive decision of a court or other public authority, such as a divorce resulting from the unilateral declaration of a spouse which is registered by a religious court. In other words, the divorce pronouncement in a Sharia court in Syria cannot be a divorce validated under EU law. In short, the EUCJ said member states of the European Union must decide for themselves whether to recognise “private divorces”, such as those performed in Shariah courts, and therefore the EU law (the Rome III Regulation) is not applicable. So, a summary of this case is that a declaration of divorce before a religious court (such as that in Syria) does not fall under the scope of the regulation, and said the case must be resolved under German law.
In Australia, the courts will examine all factors before applying a judgement from another foreign jurisdiction, especially in regards to divorce. Some of the main issues to be examined would be fairness to the parties, right to adequate and capable representation, adherence to any International Charters and Conventions (such as Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women), the best interest of the children, duress and lack of free consent, judicial competence of the foreign court, as well as general consonance with Australian laws. As an aside, it should be noted that most Islamic countries have now banned triple Talaq. Till next time, Masalama and Ramadan Kareem/Mubarak.
Dr Abul Jalaluddin is an Islamic Finance expert, taxation advisor and a regular columnist for AMUST. He is based in Sydney.
Private vs Public Divorce: Where does a Muslim divorce stand? Hyder Gulam
This article is about divorce in the Muslim marriage context, with regards to a recent Court of Justice of the European Union (EUCJ) ruling. Now, a quick background check. Divorce for a Muslim marriage can be generally categorized into 4 categories. These are: (1) Talak, (2) Khuluk, (3) Taklik and (4) Fasakh). Talaq comes from the Arabic word, which means, “to release” or in this case, “to divorce”. In this divorce, the husband rejects his wife. Talaq allows the husband to apply for a divorce without having to prove that his wife has done wrong. The divorce is effected simply because the husband no longer wants his wife and has rejected her. Khuluk also comes from the Arabic word, Khula, which is the right of a woman to seek divorce from her husband. In return, she is required to compensate her husband, normally through monetary means. In contrast from Talaq, the wife is also required to prove that her husband has done wrong and breached either Taklik or Fasakh. There is an exception however, if her husband permits her to file for a divorce. Taklik is derived from Arabic, which means a conditional divorce, and can be seen as a conditional marriage stipulation, like a pre-marriage/nuptial agreement. Should a woman apply for Khuluk, she will have to prove that her husband has breached the Taklik before the divorce is valid under Shariah. The last form of Muslim divorce is through Fasakh. This dissolution of marriage can occur under any valid reason and it means to annul the marriage. Generally there is a non-exhaustive list of grounds where a marriage can be annulled, and include failure of the husband to provide his wife with maintenance for 3 months, the husband was impotent at the time of the marriage and is still
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Hyder Gulam, AMUST Legal Editor, is a lawyer, an accredited mediator, qualified nurse 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. ISSUE 150 / MAY 2018
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The Australian dream of home ownership Ibrahim Taha It was once a common Australian aspiration to be able to own your personal home, the Australian dream of home ownership. However, this long-held aspiration is diminishing as the Committee for Economic Development of Australia (CEDA) reported that Australia’s housing affordability issue might continue for decades to come, with too much demand and increasing supply problems, causing a housing crisis. Qartaba Homes has emerged as an innovative way of aiding Australians by reviving the Australia dream of home ownership through an “interest-free” alternative to the mortgage-based system that exists currently. Established in late 2010, Qartaba Homes has successfully delivered approximately 200 lots and expect to handover 350 lots in 2018. This has boosted confidence and gave encouragement for future development. Since then, Qartaba’s projects have expanded throughout Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales. It has gained the reputation of providing the “First Ever Interest-Free Housing” in Australia, supported and funded by entrepreneurial individual investors who want to assist families especially from migrant backgrounds. Qartaba Homes has utilised top engineering firms such as BG&E and Orion Consulting as well as architectural firms like Dickson Rothschild Architects to build homes of optimal standard. Khurram Jawaid, director of Qartaba Homes says, “We are passionate about ensuring all Australians are able to own their own piece of land. We offer interest-free
House under construction.
Arun and Gina outside their newly built house in Qartaba’s project. Directors of Qartaba Homes (Khurram Jawaid, Wajahat Rana and Dr Kashif Aziz) land purchase for anyone able to buy land Therefore, Qartaba Homes provides a housing, to rectify the current system which on installments.” “halal” alternative to the current orthodoxy. has caused much angst and difficulty for The focus on being interest-free has meant The growing popularity of alternatives like families. the Qartaba Homes complies with Islamic Qartaba Homes represents the fact that IsQartaba Homes offers a glimpse of hope finance of not charging interest and thus is lamic financial institutions are becoming in- and has revived the Australian dream of a 100% Halal Housing Solution to the prob- creasingly embraced in the West, particular- home ownership to almost 1000 families lem of housing affordability. ly in Britain, which has more Islamic banks within next few years. The importance of Halal housing cannot than any other Western country. To learn more about Qartaba Homes, be overstated. The modern system of bankQartaba’s development underway in check out their website: ing and finance, based on an interest-based Schofields qartabahomes.com.au/ or Facebook: mortgage has posed a challenge to modern Qartaba Homes is an innovative solution www.facebook.com/QartabaHomes/ Muslim families and couples who struggle to Australia’s housing crisis, which will re- Ibrahim Taha is a young, first year student to reconcile this permeating system with main a challenge for generations of Austral- at Sydney University. Ibrahim is involved in their faith, which deplores the consumption ians. This innovative social enterprise repre- many organisations and has keen interest in of usury or “riba”. sents a step toward a world of interest-free politics, religion and social issues.
Get your startup started now!
Houssam Bizri Initiating a new business with the proper resources and trained personnel always seems like an excellent idea. The trend of establishing a startup business in Australia and to become global has become a widespread practice over the years, and a majority of the entrepreneurs are stepping in and stepping their entrepreneurial skills by establishing startup businesses. The process of starting a startup business may sound exhilarating to few of us but, with proper training and proper use of the digital tools available; having your startup started has become a fairly easy process. Several online and inclass sessions are introduced to train the entrepreneurs just like yourself to shape up their startup businesses, and few of these training elements include the following facets: • Startup in e-commerce, digital marketing, social media website design, App design, growth hacking, eLearning and more. Startup with e-commerce Employing e-commerce is an effective way to give your startup a kick start. Using
the tactics and facets of e-commerce is an ideal way to put your business out there to its target audience if you are still figuring out the costs and resources required to initiate a startup business. There are several ways to push your business to an online platform that even requires you to sell your products via a direct sales strategy, create affiliate websites, and handle shipping for a merchant. Startup with digital marketing Digital marketing is a modern derivative of marketing, and it caters to dealing with the implementation of a marketing plan on a digital level. Digital marketing is evolving at an accelerated pace, and it proves to be an excellent tool for the promotion of a startup business to its target audience. Resorting to the tactic of digital marketing requires the entrepreneur to establish a strategy, backed up with digital innovation, to make it appealingly attractive to the prospective customers of the startup business. Startup with website Websites constitute to make excellent sources for conveying the story, history, background, and services of a startup business to its user. A majority of the startup businesses rely on websites or micro-websites to make a business engaging and likable to a visitor and to connect with the corresponding audience. Startup with e-Learning
5 TYPES OF STARTUPS
E-commerce Digital marketing Website e-Learning Blogging
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In leading organizations, a majority of the employees are subjected to training and development to become more familiar with their roles and responsibilities pertaining to the organization. However, on the contrary, the entrepreneurs handling startup businesses are required to incorporate e-learning into its strategy to become more familiar with their involvement and responsibilities in their businesses. Startup with Blogging Blogging is considered to be an effective tool that enables the entrepreneurs to establish their startup businesses and to promote them to their prospective customers. By adopting the strategy of blogging, an entrepreneur can inform its target audience on the benefits of the products and services offered by him. Startup Ummah Since January this year, a new initiative was founded by Houssam BIzri called Startup Ummah (http://startupummah.com), which saw a number of successful events take place in Sydney, Melbourne, New Zealand and Dubai. The initiative was to bring
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local entrepreneurs and startups to discuss what they have learned along the way and what advice they could give to others by creating networking and a new startup eco-system for our ummah. All the events were well attended and generate new opportunities for many. New training programs in “Digital Strategy for Startups” available face to face and online are available. This Ramadan, make plenty of duaa for your success, plan early with clear intention, train-up and start-up!
Houssam Bizri is an EDUpreneur. Director, Bizri Digital Academy and Founder Startup Ummah (http;//startupummah.com) Houssam is an award-winning Educational Designer with a demonstrated history of working in the higher education industry in the areas of online teaching and learning. Skilled EDUpreneur with a good track record in assisting StartUps and SME’s with online digital solutions, strategies and implementation. Houssam graduated with a degree in adult education (UTS), masters in Business and Technology (UNSW) and Masters in eLearning (UTS). He is a strong believer in lifelong learning. AUSTRALASIAN MUSLIM TIMES 35
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Colouring activity
Cut out the checklist below and stick it to your fridge!
MY RAMADAN CHECKLIST My name is ____________________________________ and these are the good deeds I performed to please Allah (swt) during Ramadan of the Hijri year 1439! Put a tick in each box for all the good deeds you have completed for each day of Ramadan. Deed
Date
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9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
I fasted today I prayed all 5 prayers I read Quran I prayed tarawih I gave charity (even a smile!) I prayed tahajjud I told the truth I wasn’t mean and didn’t fight I helped my parents I was good to my brother/sister Courtesy of IslamicComics.org
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Waleed & Susan Nemat Kharboutli Nazeem Hussain Saara Sabbagh Young Achiever The Project Vogue Australia VMCC Award Awards Nominee
Waleed Aly and Susan Carland were both listed in Game Changers 2018 in Vogue: “The pair, who are known as power couple in the Australian media, met when they were 16-years-old and have welcomed two children together. Successful, intelligent, and unafraid to voice their opinions, Aly and Carland have been praised for singlehandedly changing Australia’s perception of Islamic culture.”
Nemat Kharboutli, Secretary of MWA, was a Community Service Award Nominee for the NSW & ACT Young Achiever Awards 2018 presented by Ray Williams MP, Minister for Multiculturalism. A great role model and inspiration to all! We are so proud!
Usman Iftikhar
Nazeem Hussain appeared as a guest on Channel 10’s The Project :”making sure he won’t miss the birth of his first child, what to expect at his new show and if funny is the new sexy!” Nazeem toured around Australia doing the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
Saara Sabbagh received a Victorian Multicultural Commission Champion award. The VMC’s new Multicultural Champions program acknowledges Victorians who have been instrumental in breaking down barriers between culturally diverse communities. This award is a recognition of Saara’s contribution of 30 years of community service and supporting Saara in her leadership role.
Amani Haydar
Tasneem Chopra ABC Radio
Commonwealth Young Person of the Year
Archibald Prize Entrant
Zakir Khan Comedy Tour
Tasneem Chopra hosted the ABC Saturday Afternoon Show: Science, Arts & Comedy – a digital radio treat. In this epsidode, Tasneem canvassed: women in science & the EPA (Dr Andrea Hinwood), mobility in weather, refugee music programs, what to expect when you’re expat-ting (Saeed Saeed), #SammyJ and a live performance from #Maya. Through many platforms including radio, Tasneem maintains her personal and professional experience inform her broader outlook on our social landscape as issues impact upon minorities and the disadvantaged.
Australia’s Usman Iftikhar Awarded Commonwealth Young Person of the Year. Usman Iftikhar is the CEO of Catalysr - a business that helps skilled migrants establish businesses in Australia. This award is a top Commonwealth honour in London to recognise outstanding contributions to the community. Prince Harry gave Mr Iftikhar the Commonwealth Young Person of the Year award at a forum in London attended by hundreds of young delegates from across the 53 member nations of the Commonwealth.
Amani Haydar’s paintings are often of women with tears running down their face. They illustrate the pain and grief she feels over the murder of her mother Salwa Haydar, 45, by her father Haydar Haydar in 2015. But Amani’s entry into this year’s Archibald Prize at the Art Gallery of NSW is different. It’s a self portrait — in it she stares back at you, defiant, strong and proud. “This painting is about me reclaiming that story from the headlines, from the reports and giving it my own voice and telling it in my own words,” Ms Haydar said.
Comedian Zakir Khan held a comedy tour in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane between 14 April - 22 April. Zakir Khan is an Indian stand-up comedian, writer and presenter. Zakir has a diploma in Sitar and is a college dropout. He became a known face in India’s standup comedy circuit in 2012 when he won the title of ‘India’s Best Stand Up Comedian’- a comedy competition organized by Comedy Central. Besides performing at many stand-up comedy shows, he has also done ghostwriting and produced radio shows.
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