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New Aussie Ambassador to Saudi Arabia
Mr Ridwaan Jadwat. Manarul Islam
Sheikh Abdel Aziem Al-Afifi, Grand Mufti of Australia with Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohammed, former Grand Mufti at the Ramadan Iftar Dinner held at Star Palace Reception in Fairfield, Sydney on Saturday 26 May 2018. Mobinah Ahmad The Grand Mufti of Australia, Sheikh Abdel Aziem Al-Afifi has assured that he will be working for the benefit of all Australians and warned against any division
being created on the basis of “us” and “them”. “Because we’re all one family and we all have to help each other and work together,” he said. The newly elected Mufti was speaking at a Ramadan Iftar Dinner on Saturday 26
May hosted by him together with the former Grand Mufti Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohammed held at Star Palace Reception in Fairfield, Sydney. continued on page 4
Anwar calls for good governance EID SPECIAL ISSUE
Zia Ahmad The Malaysian leader Anwar Ibrahim has urged active participation of all Malaysians in critical monitoring of the newly elected government and has called for reducing the economic gap between rich and poor in the country. He was speaking at the Iftar Perdana being held at Nurul Hidaya Mosque at Kampung Pandan Kalam on Sunday 27 May 2018. The event was attended by his wife, Dr Wan Azizah, the Deputy Prime Minister together with other Malaysian leaders. “The wealthy are overflowing with riches, and it is different with low-income people, who are further burdened with taxes and price increases,” Anwar said. In keeping with the spirit of Ramadan he called on the government to champion the lot of poor and orphans and ensure that the
Dr Mahathir Mohamed, Prime Minister.
Dr Wan Azizah, Deputy Prime Minister.
country’s future and the interests of its people were looked after. The Malaysian opposition coalition Pakatan Harapan (Alliance of Hope) led by Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Dr Wan Azizah,
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Mr Anwar Ibrahim, PM in waiting.
wife of Anwar Ibrahim were voted into power in a surprise election victory on Wednesday 9 May 2018 winning 121 seats out of a total of 222. continued on page 4
The Foreign Minister, Julie Bishop, announced that the new Ambassador to Saudi Arabia will be Mr Ridwaan Jadwat. Mr Jadwat is a career diplomat and is a Muslim-Australian. He will also have non-resident accreditation to Bahrain, Oman and Yemen. “Australia’s relationship with Saudi Arabia is built on strong commercial ties, shared regional security interests and engagement in international groupings,” she stated. “Saudi Arabia is Australia’s second-largest trading partner in the Middle East, with twoway goods and services trade reaching almost $2.39 billion in 2016–17. Saudi investment in Australia was worth $3.9 billion in 2016.” To indicate how deep the relationship is, Saudi students continue to choose Australia as one of their key study destination, with more than 6,500 enrolled in 2017. Mr Jadwat is a senior career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), and was most recently on secondment as Assistant Secretary and Head of Policy, ASEAN-Australia Summit 2018 Taskforce, in the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C). He has previously served overseas as Counsellor, Australian High Commission, Kuala Lumpur; and Deputy Head of Mission, Australian Embassy, Tehran. In Canberra, he has served as Assistant Secretary, South and Southeast Asia, Americas and Middle East Branch, PM&C; and Director, ASEAN and EAS Section, DFAT. Mr Jadwat holds a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and a Bachelor of Economics (Social Sciences) from the University of Sydney. He will be replacing Ambassador Ralph King who has been representing Australia’s interests in Saudi Arabia since 2015.
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Imams condemn Australia’s “NO” Anwar calls for good vote at Israeli war crimes probe
governance
Zia Ahmad Only US and Australia voted in opposition, 29 countries in favour and 2 against, at the United Nation’s Human Rights Council on Friday 18 May in Geneva, to establish an investigation into Israel’s killing of Palestinians during protests along the Gaza border, as war crimes. More than 100 Palestinian protesters have been killed and almost 3000 injured by Israeli snipers at the Gaza border during the month long protests. The bloodiest day of violence was on Monday 15 May since more than 55 protestors were killed and hundreds injured on a single day. Meanwhile on Tuesday 22 May, the Canterbury-Bankstown Council in NSW has decided to donate $1000 to Gaza as a token of support to the Palestinians suffering from Israeli blockade and violence. The Mayor Karl Asfour and Councillor Bilal El Hayek made the announcement with the following comments by Bilal: “We recognise that, in the global context, this is a tokenistic offer, but it is an offer that is symbolic of what we, as a Community, stand for caring for those who are vulnerable and those that are less fortunate than ourselves. I hope that, in some small way, this draws attention to the issue and raises awareness of the ongoing conflict and human suffering in Gaza. This is particularly important at a time when it appears there has been a disproportionate use of violence against people, people like us, exercising a human right that we enjoy freely in Australia: the right to freedom of assembly and peaceful protest. And I note
that under the Liberal Federal Government, Australia was one of two countries – the other being the US – to vote against the UN Human Rights Council conducting an inquiry
into this event.” Zia Ahmad is the Editor-in-Chief of the Australasian Muslim Times AMUST.
Mufti for all Australians
Question for the Mufti from AMUST. From left: Zia Ahmad, Jane Jeffes, Sheikh Al-Afifi, Dr Ibrahim, Fr Rod Bower. ed out that Australia was a most successful “I’d like to work alongside them in supContinued from page 1 On being questioned by AMUST as to multicultural country and said that as Aus- porting them because I think they’re the how he was going to manage the rivalry tralians we pride ourselves for religious ones that are going to build an Australian sobetween Sydney and Melbourne, the Mufti freedom and interfaith dialogue was very ciety that’s respectful and can live at peace said that he will be a frequent visitor to Syd- important in forming a united front on a and openness with one another,” she said. Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohammed during his ney and in collaboration with the National range of issues. Father Rod Bower who met the new Mufti welcome address talked about his highly enImam’s Council (ANIC) as well as the former Mufti, he will address any issues facing for the first time said that it was a great op- gaging experience during his tenure of sevportunity for political and religious leaders en years six months and half day which he the community in a most positive way. The event, MC’ed by ABC’s Jane Jeffes to celebrate diversity and show that we are found very challenging at times. He said that he will return to his scholarly was attended by invited guests which in- all Australians together. The President of the Uniting Church Ms work, but will remain in a mentoring role cluded politicians, interfaith leaders, government and police officials and Muslim Diedre Palmer said that she was excited to as the former Mufti to advise the new Mufti work alongside Sheikh Al-Afifi to engage work in building a cohesive society in this community leaders, country. Senator Concetta Fierravanti-Wells point- with disenfranchised youth.
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Continued from page 1 Dr Mahathir bin Mohamad, 92 was sworn in as the new Prime Minister of Malaysia and Dr Wan Azizah as the Deputy Prime Minister. As agreed between the two leaders, Dr Mahathir was instrumental in obtaining a swift full pardon for Anwar who was released from Jail mid-May. Dr Mahathir has promised that in accordance with the agreement he will step aside within two years paving for Anwar to take over the Prime Minister’s position after he is interned into the parliament through a by-election. The outcome of the Malaysian election was welcomed in global Islamic circles as well as in Australia. Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad, a Sydney based veteran Islamic leader with close contacts in Malaysia and a long time colleague and mentor of Anwar Ibrahim welcomed the new development in Malaysia. “The credit for this great outcome must be given to Dr Mahathir and the Anwar camp, led by his wife, Dr Wan Azizah who set their egos aside and reconciled in order to safeguard the interest of all Malaysians.” Dr Ahmad, 88, however had some words of warning for Dr Mahathir, “We hope that at the age of 92, Dr Mahathir will show wisdom and not repeat the mistakes of the past regarding Anwar, and as he has promised, transfer the leadership to Anwar as soon as possible.” Dr Daud Batchelor, AMUST columnist from Brisbane wrote, “It is surely a wonderful, epic, ground-breaking event with great benefit for Malaysia and especially the Malays themselves.” Ms Gulhan Eryegit Yoldas, journalist and community leader based in Melbourne said,”We celebrate with the Malaysian people, confident that this new government will be committed to the rule of law, to social justice and equality and work with integrity for the best outcomes for Malaysia.” AMUST columnist, Bilal Cleland from Melbourne wrote, “The new government of Malaysia comes to power with a world of positive support, both inside and outside the country. Malaysia is finally on the move to realise an inclusive and vibrant 2020, different from what has gone before.” Dr Hussin Mutalib, a former professor of political science from Singapore writes, “The results indicate very clearly that Malaysians of all walks of life were fed up with status quo and wanted change. Many still have reservations about Mahathir and his volte face with his friend-turned foe Anwar Ibrahim, but their utter disgust for Najib and the prevalent culture of collusion, corruption and nepotism, made them willing to give the Mahathir-Anwar leadership a second chance.” Professor Jamil Farooqui from India, who spent 25 years in Malaysia teaching sociology at the International Islamic University (IIU) said, “Now that there has been a drastic change in Malaysian politics with the opposition given a strong mandate by people, the new leadership should show good governance by implementing rule of law, equality for all its citizens and getting rid of corruption as a showcase for other Muslim countries to emulate.” Professor Mumtaz Ali from IIU, Kuala Lumpur said,“The recently held Election was fought under the leadership of Dr Tun Mahatir but Sri Anwar Ibrahim’s political party played a big role in the victory of the opposition. His party won altogether 100 seats out of 113. Anwar in fact created a history. Fighting from prison in the past two elections and also in the current election manifested his courage and confidence for justice. Finally he himself will enjoy justice and also I hope will guarantee justice to everyone.” ISSUE 151 / JUNE 2018
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Soft revolution in Malaysia A great inspiration for the world The Malaysian opposition coalition Pa- electoral tactics, for a relatively acceptable katan Harapan (Alliance of Hope) led outcome. by Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Dr Wan It was a victory of good over evil, honesty Azizah, wife of Anwar Ibrahim were over corruption, rule of law over chaos with voted into power in a surprise election a great outcome for Malaysians and an invictory on Wednesday 9 May 2018 win- spiration to the world. ning 121 seats out of a total of 222. This shows that democracy or representaThis was a win for democracy where an tive government with one person one vote is incumbent party in government, with all possibly the best form of governance for its power and advantage against a peaceful transfer of power without fledgling opposition was voted violence and shedding of blood. out of power by a landslide Yes, democracies can misbecause of its highly corfire and the election of Trump rupt track record by popas the President of the most ular voting. powerful democracy has its Zia Ahmad The Malaysian voters, own setbacks, but other aldisplaying an unexpected ternatives have been worst. Assalamu tsunami of people power, Democratic system of Alaikum went beyond race politics governance may not be an and indifference for corideal system where corrupGreetings ruption, opting for diversity, tion, manipulation by the rich of Peace tolerance, gender balance and and the powerful, false propathe vision for a new Malaysia for ganda and vested interests can afall its people. fect the outcome, but this is the best we This is one of the very rare good news have. coming particularly out of a Muslim counThe Western democratic system has its try where generally authoritarian systems own merits where all its citizens are treated exist as a rule, either with absolute monar- equally as one whole with equal votes and chy, dictatorships or nominal democracies where political parties are organised on the with those in power disenfranchising its basis of policies and programs that the votown people to make a change. ers can evaluate before voting. For all its faults, after all Malaysia was Unfortunately in the pseudo-democracies and is a democracy and hence it realised its prevalent in most Muslim countries, voting potential of making a change in a peaceful is done on religious, sectarian, ethnic, tribal way in accordance with the wishes of its or linguistic fault lines. people without any bloodshed. Classic examples are the voting trends in Credit must be given to the Malaysian fledgling democracies in Lebanon, Iraq and election authority to conduct the elections Afghanistan where the system creates more in an impartial way as well as to the pre- division in the population than a united navious government, ignoring some, its dirty tion state.
“It’s more than obvious, Malaysians rejoice the departure of Najib-style policies and politics. The rejoice is widespread and cuts across racial and religious lines. Many factors led to this bigger-than-expected outcome but much of the anger was personally directed at the man himself, Datuk Seri Najib. His economic policies, especially the introduction of the GST, was bitterly unpopular. But the devil that haunts him and refuse to go away was the universally exposed 1MDB corruption issue, JUNE 2018 / ISSUE 151
The results indicate very clearly that Malaysians of all walks of life were fed up with status quo and wanted change. Many still have reservations about Mahathir and his volte face with his friend-turned foe Anwar Ibrahim, but their utter disgust for Najib and the prevalent culture of collusion, corruption and nepotism, made them willing to give the Mahathir-Anwar leadership a second chance. Hussin Mutalib Singapore
Re: “Beware of Despot”
Our attention has been drawn to an article titled “Beware of Despot” that featured at your newspaper at Issue #150 in May 2018. The content of the article is baseless and contorted, that twisted facts. The ‘Global Summit of Women’ recognized inspirational leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in uplifting women and girls, for her immense contribution to women empowerment and inclusive development. As for treatment of Jamaat leaders, they have been tried at International Crime Tribunal (ICT), meeting global standards for dispensing justice. Cases against other opposition leaders have all been pursued in open courts following due process of law. I request you to duly publish this in your newspaper as a rejoinder and apply discretion in ascertaining correctness before publishing such an article in future. Farida Yasmeen Counsellor (Political) and Head of Chancery Bangladesh High Commission, Canberra
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Travel There is a long way to go in setting up representative governance in most if not all Muslim countries and till it is achieved, chaos will exist with instability and suffering amongst its people. The recent events in Malaysia can be a source of inspiration for all these countries to emulate in order to move towards good governance.
Readers comments Subscribe The many years of the linking of Islam and ethnicity in Malaysia and the resultant tribalism have not served the country well. Those of us who watched the level of education and national prosperity rise in that country were long disappointed with the apparently corrupt domination of the legislature and the judiciary by a questionable ruling group. The persecution of Anwar Ibrahim was a sore point with many Muslims throughout the world. PM Mahathir was part of that network and seemed to be an implacable enemy of progressive politics. The depths of corruption displayed by the recently defeated government, the irrepressible character of the family of Anwar Ibrahim and the preparedness of a renewed and mellow Mahathir to take up the struggle against his former party, bore fruit in the election. For the first time, a reforming group of progressive allies was able to remove a welded on ruling group, to the surprise of all. The new government of Malaysia comes to power with a world of positive support, both inside and outside the country. Malaysia is finally on the move to realise an inclusive and vibrant 2020, different from what has gone before. Bilal Cleland Melbourne
AMUST ISSUE # 151 FRIDAY 1 JUNE 2018 16 RAMADAN 1439 - Anwar Calls for Good Governance - Imams Condemn Australia Vote
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Malaysia moving towards an which turned even UMNO’s erstwhile Malay supporters against him. inclusive democracy
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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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Editor-in-Chief: Zia Ahmad Managing Editor: Mobinah Ahmad Graphic Designer: Rubinah Ahmad Chief Adviser: Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad Multimedia Journalist: Zaynab Gul Multimedia Journalist: Faseeha Hashmi Sub-Editor: Mohammed Sinan Siyech Sub-Editor: Aisha Mohsin Columnist: Dr Abul Jalaluddin (Finance) Columnist: Bilal Cleland (Victoria) Columnist: Manarul Islam (ACT) Columnist: Dr Daud Batchelor (QLD) Columnist: Simon Harrison (QLD) Columnist: Anne Fairbairn (NSW) Columnist: Zahid Jamil (NSW) Columnist: Shahjahan Khan (QLD) Columnist: Prof Irfan Shahid (India) Columnist: Imam Malik Mujahid (USA) Promotion: Dr Wali Bokhari Web Developer: Shadow Approved Multimedia: iMoby Productions Printers: Spotpress Pty Ltd Distributers: Abul Fateh Siddiqui, Shujaat Siddiqui, Usaid Khalil, Aamir Ahmad, Ibrahim Khalil, Usman Siddiqui, Zahid Alam, Shahab Siddiqui, Mahmoud Jaame, Mateen Abbas, Rashid Idris, Sakinah Ahmad, Anjum Rafiqi, Hasan Fazeel, Dr Quasim, Ismail Hossain, Hanif Bismi, Zohair Ahmad, Luqman Landy.
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Bilal Cleland One of my favourite Biblical passages was always the Gospel according to Matthew Chapter 25. It dealt with the final judgement when the king will “put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.” The saved, the sheep, are those who are merciful. They are those who assisted the hungry, the thirsty, those in need of clothes, the sick and those in prison. The goats are those who ignored the basic needs of the people and they have a less pleasant destination. This is similar to Hadith Qudsi 18, narrated by Abu Hurayrah (r). The Torah is also clear on the rights of the stranger, the nonJew (Deuteronomy 24). Thus defending justice and the rights of the oppressed holds an elevated position in the teachings of Islam, Christianity and Ju-
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daism. We are now witnessing, on a global scale, the separating of the sheep from the goats. In reaction to the Gaza Massacre at the time of the opening of Trump’s Jerusalem Embassy, when over 60 unarmed demonstrators were killed and some nearly 3000 wounded, some so seriously they will not recover, Turkey and South Africa withdrew their ambassadors from Israel. Qatar and Ireland denounced the killings and the OIC held an emergency summit called by the convenor, Turkey. Many governments were silent or talked about the ‘clash’ or the ‘conflict’ between Palestinians and Israelis, but not ‘massacre.’ Representation at the OIC summit already carries some indication of where the goats are located. The heads of states of Turkey, Afghanistan, Guinea, Iran, Qatar, Kuwait, Mauritania, Sudan, Jordan and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) attended. The prime ministers of Palestine, Kyrgyzstan and Pakistan also attended, while Uzbekistan, Algeria and Sudan were repre-
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sented at the parliamentary and senate level. Saudi Arabia, the host of the 57-member OIC, sent only a senior foreign ministry official. Egypt, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Lebanon, Iraq, Tunisia, Oman, Libya, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Chad, Kazakhstan, Comoros, Maldives and Tajikistan were represented at the foreign ministerial level. The UAE also sent a lower-level minister. Late on Friday, 18 May, the OIC summit issued a final communique calling on the United Nations to launch an international investigation into the killings in Gaza, the creation of an international protection force for Palestinians, and for the OIC to place economic restrictions on any countries, companies or individuals who recognise Israel’s annexation of Jerusalem. It may be found on the OIC website. This communiqué calls for strong action but it remains to be seen which countries will follow up the statements made. This Gaza Massacre is uniting people of good will everywhere, those who seem to fit the description of ‘sheep.’
Australia cedes its foreign policy in support of a rogue state Dr Daud Batchelor The US and Israel have ‘outed’ in recent weeks confirming their true nature – states that bully nations and disrespect international law and the UN. With Israel’s massacre of 60 Palestinians on the Gaza border, the Palestinian Authority urged the International Criminal Court to investigate Israel’s “grave crimes,” as well as its illegal settlements. Shockingly, Australia jettisoned its cherished value of ‘a fair go’ for the disadvantaged. It was the only country with the US rejecting a UN Human Rights Council resolution to investigate. Aggravating world conflict, President Donald Trump shattered peace hopes by withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal in preparation for US-Israeli war against Iran. European countries united in supporting the deal. IAEA confirmed Iran met its commitments. Bullying European countries is shown by US ambassador Grenell instructing German companies to “immediately” unwind their business dealings in Iran. Trump seems intent on destroying any agreement with North Korea. If the US supported peace, North and South Korea could have settled differences decades ago. The US strategy of remaining in Afghanistan prolongs the “longest war” that could be resolved by Afghans themselves. Iraq Invasion by the US and Australia in 2003 was illegal based on trumped-up WMD charges promoted by the Murdoch media. Mass killings by US forces of defenders of Iraq’s sovereignty need adjudication before international courts. Australia blindly follows the US into failed campaigns such as Vietnam and Iraq, having nothing to do with defending Australia. Malcolm Fraser, Bob Carr, and Paul Keating all spoke against our becoming a ‘client state.’ Keating highlighted that under Malcolm Turnbull and Julie Bishop “the Australia-US relationship has been ‘suborned’ ... [with] a ceding of foreign policy to the JUNE 2018 / ISSUE 151
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Many young American Jews and prominent Israelis have demonstrated and written objections to what is occurring. Christians including the Pope have made their stance against the massacre clear. The UN Human Rights Council, to hysterical Israeli objections, has voted to set up a probe into these recent killings in Gaza and accused Israel of excessive use of force. Once again our nation has been shamed. “The resolution to send a commission of inquiry to investigate was rejected by the United States and Australia, but backed by 29 members of the 47-state UN forum. Another 14 countries, including Britain, Germany and Japan, abstained.” Separating the sheep from the goats on this issue is becoming relatively straightforward. Bilal Cleland is a keen reader, a prolific writer and a regular columnist of AMUST based in Melbourne.
The Nature’s Womb Fazlul Huq From the mother’s womb into the serene hamlet, The freshness of the air, water and the ground, The distant views of the hills and the paddocks, The incessant faint murmur from the bay, The overflowing water and fury of ‘Matamuhuri’. The fuzzy views of ‘Sundrban’ in the scattered light, The slowly fading glow of the evening sky. The fire-flies breaking the darkness of the night, Resting under shade of banyan trees in summer heat. Floated in the ‘lakes’ created by the monsoon rain, Observing the fishes swim in the paddy fields, The gently flowing breeze of the winter days.
US.” Carr spoke about the influence of the Zionist lobby on the Gillard government blocking criticism of Israel’s illegal settlements. “It’s an appalling situation if Australia allows a group of [Melbourne] businessmen to veto Middle East policy.” The US itself has its foreign policy and military programs suborned to Israel’s interests (Mearsheimer and Walt). A similar situation exists in Australia where chairs changed between the Office of National Assessments (ONA) advising Cabinet on foreign affairs and the Lowy Institute for International Policy (LIIP) of which ASIO, Australian Defence Forces and AFP have membership. Allan Gyngell, ONA Director-General in 2009-2013, was also LIIP founding executive director (2003-2009). Frank Lowy is Israel’s major supporter. Zionist influence over Australian foreign policy exploded this past decade. Australian citizens are unaware of the extent Zionists influence policies, even where Australian forces are posted. It seems a prerequisite to becoming Australian PM to have graduated as an AIJAC-run Rambam Fellow and visit Israel. Turnbull, Abbott and Gillard are alumnis. Anthony Lowenstein commented: “Part of softening of politicians to be receptive to the most extreme [Israeli government] views on Israel and Palestine comes from those spon-
sored trips, coupled with weak Palestinian advocacy.” Turnbull recently upgraded relations agreeing to annual defence talks with this country far from Australia’s defensive perimeter. Defending Australia’s sovereignty is being lost more from growing US-Zionist control than with Chinese commercial-political penetration. Harnessing the ANZAC spirit not for Australia’s defence but for remote US-Israel-inspired aggressive wars is a gross abuse of sacred trust. As the US and Israel grow as rogue countries unleashed under Trump’s leadership it will be fatal to just ‘tag along.’ We should call out when the US is on the wrong path and refuse to follow its misguided leadership. Otherwise, Australia will suffer, not least from mental impacts to our Veterans trying to make sense of consequences from being led into the wrong battles not based on defence needs and humane values. Dr Daud Batchelor, holds an MA in Islamic and Other Civilisations and a Diploma in Islamic Studies from the International Islamic University Malaysia, PhD from University of Malaya, MSc from the University of London. Email: daud.batchelor@gmail.com
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The occasional encounter with a deadly reptile, Climbing up a mango, a coconut or a jackfruit tree, Rushing to collect the ‘spoils’ of a violent storm. Playing ‘ha do do’ during the winter nights, Waking up before the break of day at the prayer’s call, And submitting to the Creator in the house of Lord. Breakfast with rice cakes and the ‘juice’ of the tree, In the company of brothers, sisters and the kin. Walking to school along the undulating walkways, Taking lunch to workmen in the paddy fields, Or along with the father to the market place. Would that you knew what that was! A life of contentment and growth in the nature’s womb. 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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Premier of Victoria’s Ramadan Dinner Gulhan Eryegit Yoldas
Studded with Muslim celebrities, almost 500 people including Muslim community leaders, members of parliament, councillors, commissioners from Victorian Multicultural Commission and movers and shakers who have served our communities, this year the Premier’s Ramadan Dinner was the largest ever, held on Monday 21 May 2018 at the glamorous Sofitel Melbourne. The sound of the blessed athan (call to prayer) echoed across the beautifully decorated hall, voiced by non other than our very own football favourite Bashar Houli following the moving recitation of the Noble Quran by a young man Abdirahman Hassan. The event with the theme “Contribution & Belonging” was MCed by VMC Youth Commissioner, Tina Hosseini. Premier of Victoria, Daniel Andrews gave a wonderful speech highlighting how humbled he was by the countless positive “con-
tributions of Muslims to their community, to the economy, in the health sector and in many different ways” He enthused about the importance of sharing our heritage and culture and explained that “Here in Victoria we don’t ‘tolerate’ diversity, we in every respect celebrate it and embrace it and recognise it to be our richest asset.” The Premier announced that $7 million dollars in funding has been allocated for security upgrades at places of worship with $3 million dollars going towards Islamic places of worship. Keynote speaker, Saara Sabbagh, Founding Director of Benevolence Australia gave a very moving speech highlighting how much has changed in the past 10-15 years in Victoria, “a time which has broken the Muslim community.” She reflected back to how this talk of inclusion, belonging and contribution was not around for many of us growing up in Victoria. Saara Sabbagh shared her optimism as she explained how the conversation is now changing from being just about terrorism and why we wear headscarves to having
Muslim community given reprieve on burial shortage at Rookwood
Rachel Thomas The consecration of thousands of new plots at Rookwood Cemetery will help address the serious shortage of burial land for Sydney’s Muslim community. Muslims have been laid to rest at Rookwood since the mid-twentieth century, but the lack of available land has become an increasingly contentious issue. For the formal consecration of 2,000 new allotments, the whole community was represented in the Muslim tradition by Khaled Alameddine from the Lebanese Muslim Association (LMA) and Sheik Yahya Safi at 8.30am on Wednesday 16 May. The additional burial space will provide a short term solution for the Muslim community who can continue to bury loved ones at Rookwood for another eight to ten years. The land was initially provided by the former Department of Primary Industries, who allocated 6,700 burial spaces at Rookwood to the Jewish and Muslim faiths in 2013. This was a good short-term solution, but the Muslim community have since used half their allocated space. Following extensive consultation between Rookwood General Cemeteries Reserve Trust (RGCRT), the Lebanese Muslim JUNE 2018 / ISSUE 151
Premier Daniel Andrews. things like exhibitions at the museum celebrating the whole month of Ramadan. Saara ended her address with a call to action for everyone to speak up for social justice and drive change through advocacy and awareness against injustice. Robin Scott MP, Minister for Multicultural Affairs spoke about having greater gender equality and working with everyone present so that more Muslim women are sitting on boards, in government, private and community leadership positions. She recognised the incredible role of Muslim women in ensuring the success of our multicultural society. The final speaker for the night was the incredibly charismatic and engaging Sheikh Abdel Aziem Al-Afifi, the newly elected Grand Mufti of Australia. He explained that “the month of Rama-
dan isn’t just about eating and drinking. It’s about friendship, sharing and caring and thank you to the Premier of Victoria for this invitation and this opportunity to share food, share values, to talk and better understand one another.” 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.
Association and the Jewish Board of Deputies, the Jewish community transferred their portion of their allocated space to the Muslim community. (Lot 27 was subsequently allocated to the Jewish community). George Simpson, CEO of RGCRT confirmed, “For religious and cultural reasons, burial is the only option for members of the Muslim and Jewish communities. We are now carrying out over 400 Muslim interments per year. This has made the availability of burial space a growing issue and land for the Muslim community is expected to be exhausted within 8-10 years. It was vitally important to RGCRT that we work closely with the leaders of these two communities to facilitate an outcome which provides distinct interment grounds to meet their end-of-life values. “RGCRT is currently seeking to find a new property to address the shortage, however in the meantime we are pleased to have been able to work with the Muslim and Jewish communities to assess their needs and reallocate space to suit their requirements.” The consecration was attended by the Honourable Paul Toole, Minister for Lands, Forestry and Racing, and dignitaries from the Muslim and Jewish communities. WWW.AMUST.COM.AU
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2018 DEAKIN UNIVERSITY EID AL-FITR COMMUNITY FESTIVAL
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Thursday, 21 June 2018, 5.30 pm - 7.30 pm VENUE Central Precinct, Building HF, Level 2, Deakin University Melbourne Burwood Campus 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood Free parking available
Eid al-Fitr is a festival that marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan. It is a time to celebrate with family and friends. Please join us in attending this free community event. There will be cultural entertainment, traditional food and children’s activities.
DRESS Neat casual or cultural attire RSVP Thursday, 7 June 2018
For enquiries please contact: University Events 03 9246 8936 Please note you must register to attend this free event.
Register here: engage.deakin.edu.au/events/2018Eid
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@Deakin Deakin University CRICOS Provider Code: 00113B
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COMMUNITY Chief Judge in Equity at MLN Iftar Mosque Open Day at Toowoomba LIFESTYLE 22 - 26
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Hadi Boustani
Her Honour Justice Ward presenting at the MLN (NSW) 2018 annual Ramadan Iftar.
The Muslim Legal Network (NSW) held its annual Ramadan Iftar on Monday 21 May 2018 at Doltone House, Hyde Park in Sydney. This year the network hosted keynote speaker The Honourable Justice Julie Kathryn Ward, Chief Judge in Equity of the Supreme Court of New South Wales. Her Honour observed that the Iftar is an important celebration for all as it is a reminder of the diversity within the legal profession and Australian society more broadly. In commenting on the current state of diversity within the legal profession Her Honour stated “Our cultural diversity is not yet reflected as it should be in some areas of the profession including the judiciary. Promoting diversity at all levels of the legal profession is uniquely important because law is not an ordinary profession. It is fundamentally concerned with the core values that underpin the conduct of our lives and form the fabric of our society.” Also in attendance was guest speaker, Sarah Malik, investigative journalist and freelance writer who discussed her spiritual relationship with the month of Ramadan and coming to understand its meaning and purpose.
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Past speakers have included The Honourable Justice Stephen Rothman SC AM, Judge of the Supreme Court of New South Wales and The Honourable Diana Bryant AO, Chief Justice of the Family Court of Australia. Zaahir Edries, President of the Muslim Legal Network (NSW) says about the annual Iftar “Our members want not only to be known as a part of the legal profession but also that the profession knows who they are, including what Ramadan means to them. This Iftar lets us share our identity with the profession in a way many might not have experienced” The Iftar is an occasion for the Muslim legal profession to break bread with their non-Muslim peers from legal and non-legal backgrounds alike. Aside from the delicious food on offer the Iftar is a celebration of faith where participants can share a mutual respect for their differences. The Muslim Legal Network (NSW) was founded in 2009. Since that time it has quickly become one of the peak professional associations representing Australian Muslim Legal Practitioners and is excelling in bridging the cultural gap with the wider Australia community. To learn more about the network you can visit www.muslimlegalnetworknsw.com or their Facebook page www.fb.com/muslimlegalnetworknsw
On Sunday 13 May 2018, Muslims from different backgrounds and all walks of life gathered in Blacktown, Sydney, to raise their voices and use their faith to tackle the issue of the cost of electricity. The event, held in Alpha Park Hall, was organised by Sydney Alliance and its Voices for Power campaign and was led by the Alliance’s Muslim community committee, the second successful event for Abdal-Nasser AbuMustafa, head organizer for the committee and his core team. This event involved “table talk” activities as well as a few words from distinguished guests and leaders of the Blacktown region. The program commenced with a talk by Sheik Jalal Al-Chami, Imam from Australian National Imams Council who put his theological input on the movement. Guest speaker Shani from Solar Citizens unpacked the costs of the electric bill and JUNE 2018 / ISSUE 151
where the money is distributed as well as the benefits to switching to solar power. Guests and members were directed to share their own encounters with rising energy costs and their experiences with renewable energy. Sydney Alliance is a union of 40 organisations of varying representation of communities, faiths and associations, working for the common purpose of creating a fair and sustainable city for all. Sydney Alliance is non-party affiliated, political organization that aims to create and strengthen a just civilization. Amongst the active members of the alliance are the Australian National Imam’s Council, National Zakat Foundation and the Muslim Women’s Association. The Voices for Power campaign has taken the voices of citizens from diverse religious and ethnic backgrounds and given them a pedestal to speak on. The campaign has pushed communities to take on positions of leadership to address the rising cost of electric bills and has pledged for equity in the access of renewable energy sources. In this month’s event, the experiences of the Muslims of Blacktown were that of the
The Islamic Society of Toowoomba celebrated Open Day of the Garden City Mosque and the 5th Annual Toowoomba International Food Festival on Saturday 12 May 2018 at the Mosque premises. In spite of very cold and windy morning a large number of people turned up to share food, faith, fun and friendship with the Mosque community.
Hadi Boustani is an Accredited Specialist in Commercial Litigation and Senior Associate with Coleman Greig Lawyers.
Muslims of Blacktown put faith in action
Abdal Abumustafa
Professor Shahjahan Khan
pressures of the high electricity bills, in particular for new migrant families. Participants also shared their lack of or experienced use of solar panels which raised more concerns about the misconceptions of renewable energy sources. The takeaway desires for the group was for renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, to be more accessible for all and not just for home-owners. Sheik Adid Al-Rubai, representative of the Grand Mufti of Australia Dr Abdulaziem Al-Afifi, and also part of the core team for the Muslim community committee, said, “This event has a noble purpose and benefits the wider community and all of Australia, but more importantly, it also shows initiative from the Muslim leaders of Australia. This shows solidarity with the community and that the Muslims and their leaders are really engaged to do their part in the Australian society.” Abdal-Nasser AbuMustafa is Muslim Community Organiser of Voices for Power Campaign for Sydney Alliance. Based in Sydney. Palestinian. Bachelor of Sharia’ah and Master of Prophet’s Speech. Studying Bachelor of Social Work.
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After the recitation of the Holy Qur’an, President of the Society, Professor Shahjahan Khan welcomed all the guests, speakers and visitors. He was the Founding President of the Society when it was formed in 1994 and it took 20 years to set up the first Mosque in Toowoomba. Hon Mayor of TRC, Cr Paul Antonio praised Muslim community for its contribution to the peace and harmony of the city. He emphasised that everyone other than the indigenous people are settlers or migrants, but each one brings strength to the community. He said that diversity is our strength and hence we must celebrate it like the event of the day. Dr John McVeigh MP, Member for Groom and Federal Minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government, and long-term friend of the Mosque community recollected his connection with the Muslim community and the important role they play in the city and the region. Hon Mr Chris Whiting MP, State Member for Bancroft representing Minister Stirling Hinchliffe of Multicultural Affairs Queensland delivered a message from the Minister including the commitment of the Government of provide fund for events like this that bring people of diverse faith and culture together. Mrs Dorothy Woodside of Toowoomba Inter-faith Working Group spoke about the beauty of diversity among flowers and asked how good would it look if all the flowers were the same. Catholic Bishop Robert McGuckin spoke on his efforts to promote peaceful co-existence among people of different faiths. He always found the Mosque to be a place of welcome. Anglican Bishop Cameron Venables reminded the division within and between religions and asked everyone to learn from the mistakes to be better. Imam Abdul Kader of Garden City Mosque shared his experience with the neighbours who have always supported the Mosque community. He also answered different questions from the audience. Professor Shahjahan Khan is professor of Statistics at University of Southern Queensland, Australia. He is the former President of Islamic Countries Society of Statistical Sciences and Expatriate Fellow of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences.
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Women celebrating Ramadan together Feda Abdo Over 200 women and children gathered for an evening of connection and warmth on Tuesday 22 May at the MWA Women’s Ramadan Iftar in Lakemba. It was a special evening that included adhkar (remembrance of Allah) before Maghrib, outdoor Maghrib prayers in congregation, and a delicious homemade meal that nourished both the body and the soul. One of the highlights of the evening was witnessing the leadership among some of the young girls who have been mentored in the MWA SAYIT Girl’s Youth Program. The SAYIT girls coordinated the children’s program of fun craft activities, a challenging Ramadan quiz, and prize giveaways. It was great to see leadership in action, and the girls did a fantastic job. Muslim Women Association (MWA) regularly organises highly successful events that further it’s objective of creating a safe space for Muslim women. Another successful event this month was held on Tuesday 8 May with MWA Annual Open Day in Lakemba bringing together more than 30 service providers and over 150 women from the local community. The morning included an overview of MWA programs, information sharing, open discussion, children’s activities, as well as fun prizes and giveaways, with the MWA Seniors Support Group stealing the show with their singing and performances. The MWA Open Day was an amazing display of sisterhood, partnership, celebration and fun. For more information about our upcoming events, contact us via info@mwa.org. au, 02 9750 6916 or drop into the MWA Lakemba Office, 47 Wangee Rd, Lakemba, NSW, 2195.
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From Left: Mrs Robina Yasmin, Volunteer Coordinator, SAMAA, Mrs Maha Abdo, CEO, MWA and Mrs Mehar Ahmad, President, Seena Incorporated, Publishers of AMUST.
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COMMUNITY Biggest Morning Tea at Melbourne’s first Mosque LIFESTYLE 22 - 26
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Faseeha Hashmi How do you prefer your tea, maybe with a dash of milk, or with a biscuit or two? Or maybe with a spoon full of sugar or honey and a dash of lemon?. However you prefer it, there’s nothing better than being in good company. On Sunday 6 May 2018, the Australian Albanian Women’s Committee (AAIS) hosted its third fundraising event, as part of ‘Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea’ to support the Cancer Council Australia at the Albanian mosque in Carlton in Melbourne. Bringing friends, colleagues or community together, the afternoon tea was held to facilitate discussion on a particularly challenging and unfortunately common illness, cancer. The AAIS Women’s Committee member Amina Ymer hosted the event and spoke about the importance of Australian families to be conscious of cancer. “Cancer is something that affects everyone in one way or another. As Muslims, we believe that eventually there will be a cure for every type of illness. We (must) use this belief as a beacon of hope in one day finding a cure for cancer,” inspired Amina. Irrespective of your community background, cancer affects people across all cultures. “Cancer doesn’t discriminate and can, therefore, affect anyone, at any age, at any time,” said Amina. Sharing how cancer has touched quite a few members of her own life, Amina said,
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“I was personally touched by cancer when my dad’s twin passed away from bowel cancer roughly 3.5 years ago. My other uncle also passed away from bowel cancer a few months after that.” “It is important for everyone to be aware of their family’s medical history, particularly if a family member has had cancer in the past. Being screened appropriately is important to either catch cancer in its infancy or to prevent it all together. Having said that, it is very common to experience cancer without having any family history of cancer,” explained Amina. According to the Cancer Council, approximately “1 in 2 Australians are diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85.” Celebrating 25 years of life-saving work in cancer research, prevention and support services, now more than ever, it is vital for our community to find a cure for cancer. “Cancer affects people in so many homes and workplaces across Victoria and impacts the whole community. Too many people live the reality of a life affected by cancer,” says the Cancer Council. Sharing their eye-opening stories identical twin sisters, Angela and Marlene, bravely explained how cancer affected their lives. Both ladies were diagnosed with breast cancer within 2 weeks of one another. However, their journeys were both quite different despite them both having breast cancer. The presenters also encouraged female attendees to frequently make use of mammogram screening which is performed freeof-charge by BreastScreen Australia for women over the age of forty. There were over 110 female attendees to the event that included Amanda Stone the previous Mayor of Yarra City Council, Pro-
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The Albanian mosque, Melbourne’s first mosque, located on Drummond Street, Carlton North. fessor Kate Drummond, Director of Neuro- ty. surgery at The Royal Melbourne Hospital, The event raised around $4,400 which and Hana Assifiri, the owner of Moroccan included a delightful array of scrumptious Soup Bar as well as numerous other mem- food donated by local bakeries, a silent aucbers from the Islamic Museum of Australia tion, speeches and games. and Benevolence Australia. “The afternoon tea event was a fantastic This event, however, was made particu- way to raise money and increase awareness larly special as it was held in the Albanian of cancer,” said Lindta who attended. mosque, which has long been recognised as “I enjoyed the silent auction the most. It Melbourne’s first established mosque. was a great way to win a great prize and also “The event being at the mosque is a fan- give money to such a worthy cause,” said tastic opportunity to showcase Melbourne’s Lindta. first mosque and explain the history of the For more information about the Cancer AAIS. For many non-Muslim attendees, it Council, visit www.biggestmorningtea.com. is also an opportunity for them to often visit au or call 1300 65 65 85. a mosque for the first time and learn more For more information on the AAIS or to about the Islamic faith first hand,” explained organise a tour of the AAIS mosque, contact Amina. admin@aais.org.au or www.aais.org.au The mosque which was established in 1969 was constructed as Melbourne’s first Faseeha Hashmi holds a Master of Intermosque, located on Drummond Street, national Relations from the University of Carlton North. Today it represents over 900 Melbourne, with an interest in politics and members of Australian Albanian communi- human security.
CHRIS HAYES MP Federal Member for Fowler
Ramadan Food Rescue helping those in need Zaynab Gul Aysha*, a refugee from Ghana in Sydney and a mother of 2 year-old triplets, is a widow and struggling to make ends meet. Because Centrelink payments don’t cut it for her, she relies on MAA’s fortnightly Food Hampers go to help provide her family with the food they need. Sharon* recently called MAA requesting food assistance. She was struggling without food in the house, and was also out of work. MAA delivered an emergency food hamper to Sharon, and referred her to some companies she could get back into the work force. These are some of the cases that MAA National’s Food Hamper projects has recently handled in Australia. Another initiative is the Community Supermarket which currently supports around 60 families on a weekly basis with food and groceries. They help the homeless, poor, broken families, unemployed, unemployable, sick, refugees, elderly and disabled. JUNE 2018 / ISSUE 151
Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat and groceries are some of the regular items that are provided both in the supermarket and the food hampers. Ramadan Food Rescue: Through MAA’s inaugural Ramadan food rescue in Sydney last year: • 8,500 tonnes of food were rescued from family, community and restaurant iftars • 51 volunteers gave around 445 hours of their time • Deliveries of 16,799 food packs were made to 1,778 households in Sydney With the on-going assistance of partners Brothers In Need and Mountaha’s Helping Hand, MAA National hopes to continue these initiatives and build on these results. This Ramadan, if you’d like to volunteer or support any of these initiatives by MAA National and help needy Australian families, visit www.maanational.org.au or call 1800 100 786 to find out more. *Names changed to protect the privacy of the beneficiary. Zaynab Gul is a university student studying Law and Media at UNSW.
As the holy month of Ramadan comes to a close, I would like to send my warmest wishes to Muslims across Australia and around the world, celebrating Eid al-Fitr. To all Australian Muslims, Eid Mubarak and may you make the most of this auspicious celebration with your family and friends. Phone: (02) 9726 3988 | Email: chris.hayes.mp@aph.gov.au
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$30,000 raised for Aussie scholarship Faseeha Hashmi It’s not every day we reflect upon the desolate state of the Muslim Ummah and actually do something about it. Well, that’s exactly what happened, when a room full of generous Muslims came together to raise funds to do just that. The Sanad Foundation hosted its second fundraiser dinner on Saturday 5 May at the UMMA Center in Doncaster in Melbourne.
Mr Aftab Malik, Keynote Speaker. Recognised as one of the world’s leading Islamic scholars and former visiting fellow at the Centre for Ethnicity and Culture at the University of Birmingham.
The event raised funds to provide scholarships for Australian students to pursue Islamic knowledge abroad. With these scholarships, the hope is for these students to return and serve the Australian Muslim community. The evening began with a graceful Quran recitation by Sheikh Alaa el-Zokm on Surah Insan. This was followed by a speech by Sheikh Abdinur Weli who explained that the Islamic tradition is an oral one, where knowledge was received and transferred through prophetic narrations. Sheikh Weli went on to explain that “most of the time, (in Australia) we have to import (Islamic educators and thinkers) from around the world”. “So why not create and have our own born and bred educators to teach us?” asked Sheikh Weli. In recognition of this deficiency, the foundation’s aim to train and equip people to acquire knowledge from the feet of the people that can trace their theology back to prophetic tradition and bring this understanding back to Australia. Considering this question, the Board of Imams, the Islamic Council of Victoria (ICV) and the Umma Centre have since endorsed the Sanad Foundation for its endeavours. The highlight of the night was the generous pledges made from the audience followed by the auction of donated items. Rallying the audience, the host Mr Zain Kazi roused the shy crowd. Overall, the gala dinner was successfully able to raise over 30 thousand dollars in one night, auctioning the art pieces and a signed
AFIC initiative on moon sighting forum
Ghaith Krayem Do we sight the moon with the naked eye or with instruments? Can we accept sightings from other regions or across the globe? Can we rely entirely on calculations? These are all questions that plague the Muslim community in the lead up to the month of Ramadan each year. Muslims Australia – AFIC, for the first time, brought together religious leaders from across the country to share their views and perspectives on this important issue. This public forum took place at the Yagoona Community Centre, Sydney on Sunday 13 May. The intention of the Forum was not to reach an agreement on one position or another but to start a respectful public discussion on this important issue so that the general public can be better informed. Individually the speakers all had their own views on this issue but there were three common themes that arose amongst them. JUNE 2018 / ISSUE 151
Sr Salma Osman (Sanad Secretary) with Sr Enstar Hamid and her family. jersey of the 2018 AFL Premiership win- lims to seek knowledge) from the cradle to ners, the Western Bulldogs. the grave,” said Mr Malik. “It’s incredible, that a room so small as Stressing the importance of sound knowlthis could raise such a large amount,” noted edge in today’s society, Mr Malik acknowlthe audience member Sumeya. edged that we are living in the era where The audience was so generous in fact, that “Sheikh Google and Imam Wikipedia” one donor even re-auctioned the item that dominate our information landscape. Thus, they were initially seeking to buy, allowing providing us with a “knowledge drought”. the other buyer to obtain the art piece. “We must be careful whom we take The evening was capped off by a speech knowledge from. Indeed, the best form of from the keynote speaker, Mr Aftab Malik. knowledge is prophetic knowledge, which is Recognised as one of the world’s leading Is- predicated on the Quran and Sunnah, (and) lamic scholars and former visiting fellow at we (as Muslims), are here to facilitate the the Centre for Ethnicity and Culture at the transmission of this knowledge”. University of Birmingham, Brother Malik Mr Malik narrated with a poetic fervour, presented an eloquent speech on the impor- “Indeed, it has been said, that knowledge tance of knowledge to guide the community. without action is vanity, and action without “Throughout the Islamic civilisation, the knowledge, is insanity”. best form of worship has been the pursuit For further information about the Sanad of knowledge. Knowledge is glorified and is Foundation, contact: www.sanad.org.au. central to Islam. It is incumbent (upon Mus-
These were: • That there is disagreement on the fiqh issues (jurisprudence) that have been around for hundreds of years and people should not expect these to go away, but it should not a cause of fitnah (division) in the community. • That the Imams and Sheikhs should concede the decision-making process to a central authority with the consensus being that the decision should be made by ANIC and the process should be facilitated by AFIC. • Once a decision is made, regardless of our personal positions, we should accept the decision and follow it so that the community is united. The forum did not change how people make these decisions but began an important discussion that will continue into the future. Muslims Australia – AFIC will continue to work towards uniting the Ummah on this and other important issues that the community faces. Ghaith Krayem is the CEO of Muslims Australia, Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC). WWW.AMUST.COM.AU
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‘Breaking or Making News’ helping us to decipher media spin Faseeha Hashmi In the context of Australia, mass media conglomerates dominate the scene making it difficult for anyone to understand and decode our press landscape. Well, to make sense of it all, a forum event ‘Breaking or Making News’ was held on Thursday 19 April at The Wheeler Centre in Melbourne to unpack the questions on how the media approaches issues concerning race and multiculturalism. Sharing their mass media experiences, the event chaired by the Victorian Multicultural Commission, Ms Helen Kapalos brought together the Editor of The Age, Alex Lavelle; lawyer and social entrepreneur Zione Walker-Nethenda; Vice President of the Islamic Council Victoria Adel Salman and SBS reporter and presenter Sarah Abo to facilitate a dialogue between media, communities, advocates and researchers on the topic of race and multiculturalism in Australia. The event was organised in collaboration with the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission, the Victorian Multicultural Commission, and the Australian Human Rights Commission. The focus was on issues related to the harm of racial profiling on communities, the responsibility of media which can too often amplify the negative views and the importance of holding media to account. The Commissioner of the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission Ms Kristen Hilton spoke about how newly-arrived ethnic communities are adversely affected by media misrepresentation. “The linking of race and crime is nothing new,” said Ms Hilton.
Unfortunately, most newly arrived migrant communities have experienced some form of racism in Australia. Ms Hilton went on to explain that this has been experienced by the Lebanese, Vietnamese and even the Irish community during the time of the first fleet. “The way youth crime has been reported (involving members of the Sudanese community) in Victoria has been extremely disappointing. Young people (from newly-arrived communities) are constantly battling stereotypes.” Lawyer and social entrepreneur Zione Walker-Nethenda explained that these stereotypes are dangerous as they undermine the contributions which migrant communities make to Australian society and disregard a young person’s sense of belonging. “The media is responsible to inform, rather than inflame” however this is not always the case. “It makes it hard to decipher the spin from the reality,” said Zione. Referring to media, SBS news reporter and presenter Sarah Abo said that when it comes to understanding and deciphering the facts, “proximity is power.” This is especially true in the age of social media. Nevertheless, the public should be given the opportunity “to form alternative viewpoints” and “should not be isolated in silos”. “Not all media is fair,” said editor of The Age, Alex Lavelle. The media certainly made some “poor decisions” in its reporting of the issue of Australia’s African migrant communities. In a recent statement by the co-founder of the #AfricanGangs campaign says coverage of so-called street gangs of South Sudanese youths has been a “nightmare” for the community, akin to “media terrorism”. “Today, we have access to tools to be
more hateful. (What we are seeing around the world, i.e.) Trump supporters did not become manufactured overnight,” said Vice President of the Islamic Council of Victoria, Adel Salman. Overall, the Commissioners expressed their hopes to contribute to a better relationship between media and multicultural communities. Victorian Race Discrimination Commissioner of the Australian Human Rights Commission, Dr Tim Soutphommasane ex-
pressed his view encouraging the public to speak up and hold media to account. “Don’t underestimate, don’t discount your voice,” said Tim. “Victoria has some of the strongest anti-racism legislation” and yet, the racism we come to see today is “subtle” but “is (still) holding everyone back,” said Ms Hilton. Tackling these issues is ultimately necessary to foster community harmony and resilience.
Islamophobia: a reality
Speakers, organisers and attendees of the Islamophobia forum in Canberra. Manarul Islam The Taj Agra restaurant in Dickson, ACT, was full to the brim as the well anticipated forum on Islamophobia commenced proceedings over dinner on Monday 16 April 2018. Titled Islamophobia: Myth or Reality, the event was booked out almost a week before the date and other potential guests were told that they could attend if there were cancellations. Welcoming the guests was Mohammed Ali, President of Forum Australia, the organiser of the event. The Master of Ceremonies was no other than Harry Oppermann, a well known figure in the multicultural and interfaith communities, who, throughout the night, included his own valuable experiences to enrich our knowledge on the subject. He singled out one particular instigator of Islamophobia: “One has to look at the role of News Limited as an organisation, particularly what it prints in the Daily Telegraph, as an incitement to hatred, to racism, to fear,” he remarked. The three speakers were: Dr Mike Kelly, Labor Member for Eden-Monaro; Helen Watchirs, President and ACT Human Rights Commissioner; and Brice Hamack, President, the Islamophobia Register of Australia. Mohammed Ali informed during the discussion that Pauline Hanson, or her representative, was invited to the forum but she declined. Dr Kelly pointed out the role Muslims have played in the harmonious mixing of cultures in Australia as well as the pivotal
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role they have played in addressing violent extremism. “A lot of people know about the Afghan cameleers. Even through the White Australia policy there were Albanian Muslims coming here. We had the wonderful stories of the Turkish, Lebanese, Bosnian Muslims thats been a rainbow of contributions to this country,” he pointed out. He addressed how anti-Muslim sentiment has been used politically, referring to the Coalition’s strategy of using 9/11 and the Tampa crisis when it was down in the polls. Helen Watchirs defined terms such as prejudice and stigma. “Islamophobia is the irrational fear of Islam - irrationalism being at the heart of it,” she said. She pointed out that she is very grateful to those who report harassment or discrimination because then the Commission can do something about it, even if it is an apology or some form of redress. Brice Hamack made the point that it can be a “scary place out there for visibly practicing Muslims” such as women and girls who wear the hijab. He said that it is not enough for Muslims to fight just against Islamophobia but for all minorities. “As long as the Aboriginal community suffers oppression and systemic and institutional racism, so will all other minority communities. It is our civic and religious duty to stand beside them in their quest for justice.” There was a vibrant discussion on the topic after the talks as dessert and tea were served. Manarul Islam is an IT professional, community worker and AMUST correspondent based in Canberra. ISSUE 151 / JUNE 2018
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“The Month of Compassion”
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Interfaith Ramadan Dinner in Melbourne
Gulhan Eryegit Yoldas
An Interfaith Ramadan Dinner - “The Month of Compassion” was hosted by Al Siraat College and proudly supported by City of Whittlesea with an attendance of almost 100 guests on Thursday 24 May. It’s heartwarming to see that every Ramadan now we see more and more communities across Australia gather in acknowledging Islamic traditions and culture through interfaith events. These platforms are a great way to strengthen community ties, network and build community resilience. The event was MC’ed by student alumni Sumaya Mahad Ali and was attended by representatives from several community groups including Brotherhood of St Laurence, Whittlesea Interfaith Network, St. Monica’s College, Uniting Church, Epping Scouts and more. Special guests included Mayor of the City of Whittlesea Cr Kris Pavlidis, Cr Lawrie Cox, Cr Tom Joseph and Victoria Police members including Superintendent Timothy Hansen and Acting Senior Sergeant Daniel Jamison. The Welcome to Country was done by the truly remarkable guest speaker, a local Indigenous Muslim elder of the Wurunjeri, Br Hassan Andrew Gardiner. Br Hassan fascinatingly explained that “there’s been contact between Muslims and
From right: Maria Callipari, Gulhan Yoldas, Mayor Kris Pavlidis, Sondos, Sumaya, Ms Rahat Arain. “There’s been past wrongs and injusticAboriginal people of this land for many hundreds of years. Some of the earliest rock es against aboriginal people... and I find art in the Kimberlys in Northern Australia an affinity between what’s happening with show two-masted ships such as those you the Palestinians now to be very similar.” Br Hassan said. would see in the Nile River in Egypt.” He called for greater awareness and advoHe mentioned the Indonesian fishermen and the Afghan cameleers and the peaceful cacy to right those wrongs. The guests were addressed by the Prinrelationship Muslims have historically had cipal of Al Siraat College, Mr Fazeel Arain with aboriginal people.
and Mayor of City of Whittlesea Cr Kris Pavlidis. Mr Fazeel shared the simple but powerful message that for real change to happen in our communities we must first begin by changing ourselves. “That’s our message of the year, it starts with me,” explained Mr Fazeel. Mayor Kris was proud to state that we have one of the largest culturally diverse regions in all of Victoria and that while on the surface we may be different, as people we, in fact, have a lot more in common than we realise most of the time. In terms of faith, we all have the same value base. She reaffirmed the important message of improving ourselves and improving our community by “Valuing every member of our community and the contributions that they make and instilling a sense of belonging.” Mufti Aasim Rashid gave a motivational speech on the Month of Compassion before the athan and congregational prayers, explaining that each Ramadan we should look to improve ourselves to become more efficient, more diligent, more productive and contribute positively to the world around us. The event included a video presentation on the amazing humanitarian work of Al Siraat SRC and interfaith students under the guidance of Ms Noori Ahmad and Ms Nurdan Ors. The event ended with reflections from guests and poetry by Esma Sure.
Breaking barriers through song and dance AMUST Media The spectacular 16th International Festival of Language and Culture (IFLC) was held on Saturday 5 May 2018 at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Darling Harbour, organised by Amity College and Affinity Intercultural Foundation. The sold out event attracted more than 2,000 guests including politicians, academics, members of the diplomatic corps, community leaders, artists, human rights activists, legal professionals and member of the multicultural community. The audience were taken on a breathtaking multicultural journey across 19 countries, with the help of MCs Janice Petersen of SBS and legendary SBS veteran George Donikian. The three-hour event opened with a special Aboriginal smoking ceremony and dance performance featuring students from Redfern Dance Academy. An Acknowledgement of Country was given by Serena Williams from Barker College.
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Standout performances included a special drum performance from Japan, an impressive martial arts showcase from China and
a heart-thumping Haka performance from New Zealand. A song dedicated to children in custody around the world; “Let them be free” was performed by Australian students. Representing the Premier Gladys Berejiklian; NSW Minister for Multiculturalism Ray Williams commended IFLC for its contribution to the multiculturalism. Senator Kristina Keneally, special guest at the event, commented on the sense of hope and unity that the young performers had instilled in her, remarking on their ability to bring people together. ‘If students from 19 countries can sing and dance together, we can create peace together. Hope for peace in our world relies on young people because they have peace and respect for one another burning in their heart.” she said. “Tonight, we are celebrating the idea that no matter who are parents are or where they were born, what the colour of our skin, whether we are male or female, we are fellow human beings.” A lucky participant won “the door prize”, a brand new Honda Civic, provided by Suttons Homebush Honda as the Major Spon-
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sor of IFLC. The night concluded by the signature song and dance of IFLC – “Universal Peace,” performed by all children and the VIPs who attended the event on the ICC Sydney’s stage. A one-hour-long special highlights video of the event will be broadcasted on SBS 1 in the upcoming weeks. The IFLC promotes inclusion and provides an opportunity for participating students to showcase their culture and tradition with their peers from all over the world. It also gives performers the opportunity to engage in intercultural dialogue on a local and global scale. For the length of the program, student performers collaborated with each other through participating in meaningful social, cultural and educational activities. By giving students the social skills to collaborate with different groups of people, the Festival contributed to their personal growth and offers them the necessary skills and tools to create a better world.
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Medical students rally against harm to refugees Philip Feinstein Dressed in lab coats and scrubs, more than 400 medical students, doctors and community members marched at the #DetentionHarmsHealth march in Sydney on 7 April 2018. “We oppose Australia’s inhumane practice of detaining refugees – a policy directly harming their physical and mental health” said Carrie Lee, one of the march organisers. “Refugees and asylum seekers are a vulnerable population who have experienced trauma including persecution and loss of loved ones. Yet these men, women and children in detention are placed in unsafe, unsanitary conditions and denied adequate health care. Many develop severe depression or suffer deterioration of physical and mental health issues” she added. Medical students enter medicine because they care about people and their health. In recent months, dangerously suicidal children on Nauru were evacuated to Australia for treatment, and only after the federal court ruled this against government opposition. Adele Evans, Project Coordinator for AMSA Crossing Borders, the Australian Medical Students’ Association, Global Health Project, pointed out how it is completely deplorable that our nation, one of the
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most developed in the world, deliberately mistreats refugees. “It goes against my values as a young Australian and a future health professional – I don’t believe in a world where torture is the answer,” she stated. Thousands of Australian medical students and young people shared her sentiments, and together organised the Detention Harms Health march. They wrote letters to the government, networked on social media and organised all of the logistics. Many students caught trains to Sydney from Newcastle, Wagga Wagga, Coffs Harbour and many even travelled from the Gold Coast and Melbourne. All of this speaks volumes about how much medical students care about the health of refugees. They have spoken out for people in detention, even when threatened with imprisonment under the Border Force Act (2015), which aimed to silence health workers and whistle-blowers. “Doctors, medical students and healthcare workers occupy a position of unique trust within their communities. With that trust comes responsibility,” said Jumaana Abdu, a fellow march-organiser and young leader in the Muslim community. “Humanitarian pleas may have been ignored but the scientific fact is undeniable: Detention harms health.” “We marched to assure those stranded on Manus Island and Nauru that they are not forgotten,” said Ms Abdu.
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Project Coordinator Adele Evans summed it up by stating that despite objections from the medical profession, the government has refused to listen, and they have denied responsibility. She added: “They have deprived men, women and children of hope, humanity, and their basic right to health. As medical students, will not remain silent on this issue. If humanity is at the heart of medicine, Australia’s policy towards refugees in detention is the complete opposite.” Word of the march reached people on Manus Island and Nauru, who sent a message of thanks.
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Here is the medical students’ message to the people in detention: We are so humbled. Please know we will not stop fighting for you. We will not stop until offshore detention centres are closed, until you are safe, until your human right to health is upheld. The future doctors of Australia stand with you. We hear you and see you and will continue to advocate for you. You are the heroes of our world. You are the most courageous. We will not give up. Philip Feinstein is a Sydney based writer, musician and activist working for MUSIC FOR REFUGEES www.musicforrefugees.org
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Marking Al-Nakba in Melbourne
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Faseeha Hashmi Demonstrations on the steps of the State Library in Melbourne took place on Tuesday 15 May 2018 and subsequently in other cities of Australia in the wake of killing of more than 100 Palestinian protesters and injuries to thousands perpetrated by Israeli snipers at the Gaza border. This comes as countless funerals are being held in Gaza as Israeli snipers and soldiers open fire at Palestinian protesters, in what has been called the bloodiest day of violence on Monday 15 May since 2014 Gaza war resulting in more than 55 killed and hundreds injured on a single day. This includes an eight-month-old baby who died from tear gas that her family said she inhaled at a protest camp. Frustrations are mounting on the long stating dispute as Israel celebrates its independence at the expense of the displacement of Palestinians. A somber vigil was held on Tuesday 15 May in Melbourne to protest the violence, in commemoration of Al-Nakba (15 May 1948, known to Palestinians as ‘The Catastrophe’). The vigil was organised by the Australian Palestinian Advocacy Network (APAN) to mourn the relatives of Australian Palestinian families who were killed. Tasneem Sammak, a young Australian Palestinian woman who attended the vigil painfully expressed the loss of her relatives. “On Monday night we received news that
Australian Palestinians speak up about the loss of loved ones. my dad’s cousin was martyred at the Gaza borders. His name is Izzidin Sammak, he is 14 years old”, explained Tasneem. Sadly for Tasneem, this is not the first
A Melbourne vigil held in commemoration of Al-Nakba (15 May 1948, known to Palestinians as ‘The Catastrophe’).
time she has received news of the death of her family members from the conflict. “It was raining (at the vigil) and we were struggling to find the words to express the outrage and pain we felt at what we witnessed through our television news feeds”, Tasneem expressed. Those that attended held posters carrying the names of the villagers who were killed from the violence of 1948. At the vigil,“five of us (Australian) Palestinians said some words to commemorate Nakba and express what it means for us on a personal and political level”. “It weighs very heavily on our hearts” she said. Whilst overseas, adding fuel to the fire amidst the violence, only a few kilometres away, the United States opened its new embassy in Jerusalem. For many, Donald Trump’s decision to move the US Embassy to Jerusalem has been a full frontal blow to the peace process and the Palestinian people. The diplomatic rebuff has made it increasingly difficult for Palestinian negotiators to consider America as an ‘honest peace broker’.
Parliamentary Friends of Palestine commemorate Al Nakba
Shifa L Mustapha On Monday 14 May 2018, Mr Peter Russo, Member for Toohey, hosted an evening event on behalf of Queensland Parliamentarians and guests at Parliament House in Brisbane. This was to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the time referred to by Palestinians as “Al Nakba” or “The Catastrophe.” The well-known Guest Speaker was the Mr Bob Carr, former Australian Foreign Minister and Premier of New South Wales. As anticipated his speech was significant, outlining the 70 traumatic years of Palestinian subjugation and oppression. Interestingly his quotations, regarding the actual ethnic cleansing which took place after World War 11 with the influx of European Jews, and during the 1947 Partition, were from Israeli historical sources. He stressed the importance of restoraJUNE 2018 / ISSUE 151
tion of Palestinian rights, and the Two-State solution as being the only hope of peace for both sides, Israeli and Palestinian. Queensland Senator Claire Moore, spoke of her visit and experiences in modern Israel and Palestine. A talented Speaker, she carried the audience with her on her journey, relaying the situation as she perceived it. She noted the very obvious deprecation of those who were overtly Muslim/Arab as it affected their day to day lives. Travelling even short distances took many hours as road blocks and officials created delays which in turn created extraordinary difficulties for those trying to exist in this environment of apartheid. Even as a visiting Parliamentarian she was given no respect due to the fact that she had elected to visit Gaza. If there were any doubts about Israeli officialdom’s highhandedness, or any illusions regarding the Occupation and lack of compassion, these were definitely shattered. The third Speaker, Susan Lamb, until recently the Federal Member for Longman, was unable to attend due to unforeseen circumstances.
Bob Carr & Peter Russo. Speakers were generous in their answering questions from audience. Refreshment time following on gave the opportunity to meet and greet those of like minds. Shifa Mustapha is writer and community worker based in Brisbane.
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According to a recent Crikey article written by John Power, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has been reported to have anticipated an increase of violence in Gaza. Yet, despite this, the Australian Government has remained tight-lipped about the situation. Carefully considering the issue, Ms Julie Bishop’s department has reportedly been closely monitoring the situation over the last few months, despite predictions of unrelenting violence. According to one direct correspondence released by the DFAT, the department was warned that more deaths were anticipated for the April 6th demonstrations by “Israeli countermeasures” following the death of numerous Palestinian protesters on March 30th. The diplomatic cables, which were obtained under freedom of information laws, reveal that the Tel Aviv embassy briefed Canberra last month, about the killing of numerous Palestinian protesters at the Israel-Gaza border. As the rest of the world remains largely silence about the deaths, some call for an independent inquiry by the United Nations to investigate the situation on the ground. Indeed in opposition to the confrontation, for instance, UK Opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn has condemned Israel. He has reportedly stated that Britain should also consider stopping the sale of arms to Israel that “could be used in violation of international law”. Leader of the Australian Greens Dr Richard Di Natale also condemned the Israeli government for its “deplorable”, “disproportionate” and “excessive use of force.” “We are distressed that almost 100 mostly unarmed Palestinian protestors have reportedly been killed by Israeli forces since the end of March on the border with Gaza, including at least four minors and two journalists,” said Senator Di Natale. The Senator acknowledged that the Turnbull Government has repeatedly refused to speak out against Israel’s defence measures which have been violating international law. “It’s well past time for both the old parties to recognise the state of Palestine alongside the state of Israel,” urged Senator Di Natale. The UK, France and Germany had expressed “serious concern and called for the proportionate use of force and respect for the right to protest,” said the correspondence. Australia has officially stated its commitment to a two-state solution in the hotly disputed area.
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Iftars Aroun
A number of iftars were h Muslim and Interfaith organisations, companie Inaugural Graduate House Iftar was held on 26 May.
600 people attended a Indonesian community Iftar at Bentley Community Centre in Perth on 20 May, supported by the Consulate General of Indonesia
Saudi Arabia Embassy Charge d’Affaires Mr Meshel Hamdan Alrogi presents gifts t
Benevolence Australia held their Community Iftar on 26 May in Melbourne.
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Grand Mufti of Australia Sheikh Abdel Azeim Monday 21 May 2018 at the Sofitel in Melbo ISSUE 151 / JUNE 2018
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held all over Australia by h leaders, community es and state government. Islamic Science and Research Academy Iftar in Melbourne on 27 May.
to the former and current Muftis at the Mufti Iftar on 26 May in Fairfield, Sydney.
m Al-Afifi at the Premier’s Iftar Dinner ion ourne. JUNE 2018 / ISSUE 151
Refugees Welcome Australia hosted a community Iftar dinner on 26 May at Ashgrove Bowls Club in Brisbane, Queensland.
ICV and the Bosnia Herzogovina Islamic Society at Noble Park hosted this iftar on 26 May. It was attended by Muslims from the community and also members of the Australia’s 1st People. WWW.AMUST.COM.AU
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Cheap Dates! Product of Israel? Irfan Yusuf In 1990 I was elected president of my tiny Uni Muslim Students’ Association (MSA). We had no prayer room. Most of our members were Indonesian international students. I could barely understand their accents, nor they mine, making it hard organising activities with them. During Ramadan the other MSA’s with their big prayer halls had organised massive iftar feasts. I contacted one of the Indonesian MSA members. “Listen, guys. We need to put on a big feast. Are you guys ready?” “Brother, I am your sister in faith. I am not a guy,” Siti Aziza replied. “Don’t worry, we have it all ready. You just organise sweets and dates.” Helping me in this gigantic catering task was Aussie-born science undergrad Bill, whose family were from Beirut. Bill and
I shared a scepticism of the Indonesians’ cooking abilities. “Bro, I can’t see this happening. I just can’t trust these Indo’s. They hardly speak English. How can they cater for 200 people? Can you get your mum to cook biryani? But not too hot, ok? I can’t handle all that chilli.” “I can ask.” I asked. Boy was that a waste of time. “Eerfaaan! You is-stupid boy!! I keep tell you learn cooking. What you do when you get marry and your wife pregnant? You is-stupid just like your father. I am soooo sick to death that I …” “Ok, ammi.” “And don’t let Bill make his mother cook. You boys should stop be lazy and is-stupid eediot …” The night before the iftar, I met up with Bill in the library foyer. “Is your mum doing the curry?” “No, she wants me to learn to cook. The usual lecture about future wives.” “Yeah. I get that too. Bloody feminists! Our mums don’t even wear a hijab. Can you believe it? I guess we better ring Siti Aziza.” We didn’t have mobile phones back then.
Won’t you save me some dates?
Instead, we huddled around the public telephone to ring her. “Assalamu alaykum, brother Irfan. We are in the middle of preparing the food and will do the final cooking at the Unihall tomorrow before iftar.” “You will cook at the Unihall? Where?” By now I was frustrated. “Brother, leave that to us. You just make sure you have the sweets and dates.” Like most young male activists, Bill and I spent the next 24 hours procrastinating sitting there catastrophising. In the last hour before iftar, we drove to the nearby supermarket looking for sweets and dates. Bill gave me instructions. “I’ll grab some nice sweets. You get the cheapest dates possible.” Bill hit the cake and chocolate section. I stuffed 5 bags of cheap dates in the basket and went to the check-out. I waited for Bill.
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“Did you get the cheapest dates?” “Sure did. Half price!” “Awesome”. We parked the car illegally and ran to Unihall. Sure enough, Siti Aziza and an army of 80 Indonesian students and their families were busy preparing and barbecuing Satays sticks just outside. Inside, a crowd had gathered. The bags of dates were ripped open and we munched away. While performing the Maghreb prayer, I could hear a little Indonesian girl pick up a date bag and ask her mum. “Mummy, these dates say they are product of Israel. Where is that?” Irfan Yusuf is a lawyer and an award-winning writer and reviewer. He is a PhD Candidate at Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship & Globalisation, Deakin University.
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Illustrated by Faseeha Hashmi. Faseeha Hashmi Ramadan is truly amongst us, and the guarantee of sweet dates to break our fast looms even closer. The sweet and delicious fruit from the tropical oasis, is brimming with much-needed minerals and energy to help stay fit and healthy. It has been attributed that the Prophet Muhammad (s) was reported to break his fast by eating some dates before offering Maghrib prayer. However, if ripe dates were not available, he used to substitute them with some dried grapes. When they too were not available, he used to have a few sips of water. Yet despite being a chocolate-coloured, tender lolly-like substance, there are plenty of other things to look forward to. That is apart from the numerous health benefits to support those with heart disease, skin disease, wound, diarrhoea and labour pain. JUNE 2018 / ISSUE 151
For instance, dates are known to be: • Fat-free, cholesterol-free and sodium-free. • Contain only 23 calories. • Contain vitamin A and numerous B-complex vitamins that are necessary for building healthy body tissue. • Contain 15 minerals, including magnesium, iron, phosphorous, copper, calcium, manganese just to name a few. • A humble date contains more potassium per weight than a banana. • Is loaded with dietary fibre, both soluble and insoluble, helping to ease digestion. • Full of tannins which provide a high concentration of antioxidants, linked with fighting heart disease and cancer. Islam has long celebrated the humble date. In fact, it has been said that the Prophet Muhammed (s) stated that the origin of the Ajwah date grown in Madinah, Saudi Arabia can be traced to paradise itself.
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LIFESTYLE Ramadan stories from Muslim inmates NEWS 1-4
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Dr Salih Yucel
It was in the mid 90s. I was working as a Muslim chaplain in NSW Correctional Centres. A conflict broke out in one of correctional centres in NSW a few days before Ramadan. The management had to collect all unnecessary belongings of inmates for safety and security reasons. I recall a story of a Muslim inmate. It is bit mysterious, but I found it interesting particularly to those who are fasting. I wanted to share this unique story with AMUST readers. The Muslim inmate related his story during my visit after Ramadan to the facility in my capacity as the Chaplain. He relates: “after the conflict broke out, the management collected every item including my alarm clock. I was worried about how I was going to wake up for sahoor (pre-dawn meal). I always fasted during Ramadan in my life. Without sahoor, there was a risk to life to fast during the long days because I was diabetic. I tried to get my alarm clock but due to rules, it was declined. Then I decided to fast and asked Allah’s assistance in my prayer not to face such a risk to. For thirty nights, an hour before dawn a bird would come and peck my cell’s window till I woke up and turned lights on. Then bird would fly away. After Ramadan, I never saw that bird again.”
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According to Islamic jurists, if there is a risk to life, a Muslim is allowed to break the fast or can choose not to fast. However, I believe the devotion of the sincere Muslim inmate and his helpless state was like a petition to God. His prayer was answered in a mysterious way which can be called karamaor divine blessing. It is said that “out of difficulties miracles grow.” The Prophet (s) said: “There are no omens, but the best of it is optimism.” (Bukhari). There is another funny but real story from another inmate. A young Muslim inmate wanted to wake up for sahoor and not to miss his fajr prayer. He said: “It was my habit go bed after 1 or 2 am. That’s why I could not wake up before fajr. I had no alarm clock in my cell. After thinking day and night, I found a way which helped me. I would drink a lot of water before I went to bed. That would compel me to urinate two-three hours later. By such practice, I did not miss my sahoor and fajr prayer.” These difficult situations teach us to find solutions to problems thus developing problem solving skills. Dr Salih Yucel is an Associate Professor at the Centre for Islamic Studies and Civilisation, Charles Sturt University. He worked as an Imam at Redfern Mosque in Sydney between 1987-1992 and then as a Muslim chaplain at Harvard Medical Schools’ hospitals for seven years.
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Ramadan! Nosheen Salima, MD Ramadan is here again! Ramadan is here again! The blessed month is here to bless us again, Let’s earn the blessings all day long again and again Ramadan is here again! The forgiving month is here to forgive us again, Let’s forgive and be forgiven again and again Ramadan is here again! The month of salvage from the hellfire is here to save us again, Let’s show mercy here to attain mercy there again and again Ramadan is here again! The month of giving is here to give us a chance again, Let’s just give up, give in or give away again and again Ramadan is here again! The month of reflection is here to gain wisdom again, Let’s reflect on past, present and future again and again Ramadan is here again! The month of submission is here to submit once again, Let’s seize the month in full submission of our hearts, tongues, intentions and actions again and again Ramadan Kareem!
A Christian reflection on Ramadan Dr Patrick Mclnerney
Ramadan is the Muslim month of fasting. This year in Australia it began on 17 May and will end with Eid al-Fitr (The Feast of the Breaking [of the Fast]) on or around 15 June. Muslims fast from dawn till dusk. During this time, they abstain from eating, drinking and sexual activity. Nothing is to go into the mouth – no food, no snacks, no coffee, not even a sip of water! Nothing “bad” is to come out of the mouth! So Muslims are to refrain from backbiting, gossiping and salacious talk. Fasting during the month of Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It is an obligation on every adult Muslim. However, the elderly, the sick, the pregnant and travellers are exempt. Those who can are expected to “make up” the days of fasting later in the year; others make compensation by feeding a hungry person for a day. Children, of course, are not obliged to fast. Ramadan is not just a physical discipline. It is primarily a spiritual discipline. The abstinence purifies the mind and heart. It is a time of obedience and renewed devotion to God. Muslims observe the five daily prayers, another of the Pillars of Islam, with extra fervour. Many read a section of the Qur’an every day, completing the whole book during the month. There is also Quran recitation in mosques and congregational recitation of devotional prayers. Thus, Ramadan is a time of spiritual renewal.
Observing the Ramadan fast requires discipline. At this time of the year, dawn in Sydney is 5.13am and sunset is 5.01pm – that’s nearly 12 hours without any food or drink! In the northern hemisphere summer, the prescribed hours of fasting are even longer, in some places more than twenty hours! However, because Muslims follow a lunar calendar, Ramadan “advances” about 10 days every solar year, cycling through all the seasons every 36 years. Muslims consider this one of the signs of God’s mercy: that no one bears the brunt of the long summer fasting hours every year, but each takes it in turn as Ramadan advances through the seasons. Experiencing the hardships of fasting is a reminder of the suffering of others: the poor, the hungry, the thirsty, the homeless, the refugees, those treated unjustly. Accordingly, Ramadan is also a time of almsgiving, another of the Pillars of Islam, of sharing a proportion of one’s wealth with those in need. As the sun sets and the azan (Call to Prayer) signals the end of the day’s abstinence, Muslims traditionally break the fast with dates and water. After the evening prayer, families and friends gather in homes for the iftar (break fast) meal. Often they invite people of other faiths to share in the food and friendship. Muslim organisations host iftar meals for religious, civic and community leaders in public halls, sometimes seating hundreds of guests. In turn, some church leaders host interfaith iftar meals for Muslims. We acknowledge the generosity and hospitality of Muslims who host such meals during Ramadan and thank them for the many
“Experiencing
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the hardships of fasting is a reminder of the suffering of others.
invitations we have received. Through their initiative, Ramadan has now become a great season of interfaith relations. In that spirit, we at the Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations, wish all Muslims in Australia and around the world, particularly our friends whom we have come to know, love and respect, Ramadan Kareem, a generous Ramadan. We assure you of our solidarity with you at this sacred time in your religious calendar. We will pray for you daily. This is in accord with Pope Francis’ repeated exhortations to pray for one another, to implore the gift of peace from the One, Merciful, Compassionate God who is the Creator, Sustainer and Judge of all. We encourage Catholics and other Christians to offer prayers for Muslims at weekday and Sunday Masses and other church services. The intercession can be as simple as, “Let us pray for our Muslim sisters and brothers who are observing the fast of Ramadan at this time; that they find grace and favour in God’s eyes. Lord, hear us.” Although fasting in Ramadan is obligatoWWW.AMUST.COM.AU
ry only for adult Muslims – there is no obligation on others, least of all on Christians whom the grace of Christ has freed from the law – we freely choose to fast with you as an act of solidarity. We might not rise for the suhoor, the pre-dawn breakfast, but we will at least abstain from food and drink during the day. We encourage Catholics, other Christians and believers from other faiths to do the same, even if only for a day or two. Perhaps the money saved by skipping the midday meal might be donated to a charity of your choosing, thus making a solidarity also in alms-giving. To all Muslims, we wish you, your families, your mosque congregations, your communities, every blessing from God at this time. Ramadan Mubarak. A blessed Ramadan. 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. ISSUE 151 / JUNE 2018
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The Church And The World
Omar weds Muna
Dr Reginald Naulty
Houssam Afiouni & Khuloud Serdah announce the wedding of their daughter Muna Afiouni to Omar Afiouni, son of Mohammad Afyouni & Lina Alchami. Muna,19, is a full-time nursing/midwifery student and Omar, 23, is a car detailer. The Wedding took place on 15 March 2018 at Ferraro Reception in Campbellfield, Victoria.
Will the church absorb the world so that, over aeons, the world is gathered into its folds, like a medieval city within the walls of deity? Or will the world become the church when the God-trusting enrich society, and make the planet good, song- filled and prolific? Perhaps the two will unite in a vast spreading of light. Ah, say the nay - sayers that will never occur; but never is a long time, amenable to the divine; Religious people are capable of more than steeple and mosques. All the good which they can give has not yet been given; one day it will shine, the glory of the time, no longer concealed, miraculous and real. Dr Reginald Naulty, originally from Adelaide, has taught at Charles Sturt University and has been a prolific writer since 1972.
Photography by Lahza Photography at Monsalvat.
Palestine: Existence
AMUST
Can you hear the Morning Owl Hoot?
Fadwa Tuqan Translated by Dr Anne Fairbairn
I was to the world a wandering question In the closed unknown, its answer was hiding. You wee for me a new ascending light, raised from the darkness of the unknown by destiny. The stars circled with this light, they circled twice, until its unique radiance reached me. Darkness retreated in two convulsions. I found in my hand my lost answer. Oh you, oh you, so distant and so close, don’t speak of fading; your spirit burns too fiercely The universe is mine and yours ours .. two poets, in spite of immense distance, have been joined by existence. Anne Fairbairns Note: My grandfather Sir George Houston Reid became First Australian High Commissioner to Britain. He was voted into House of Commons during World War 1. He was extremely concerned about the Balfour Declaration in 1917. 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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The leaning tower of “Avo”.
Barista Ali-El-Kheir with the African Grey Parrot.
Ibrahim Taha
for its organic and wholesome foods such as the “Avo Stack”, “Grilled Haloumi Salad” and unique desserts like “Baklava French Toast.” However, what is more renowned to this place is the quality coffee that is produced from “Reformatory Lab” roasters. For the coffee connoisseurs out there, single origin blends are available from different parts of the coffee world. At times, you lose count of the coffee beans on show. Morning Owl supports local community and contributes to the wider Australian society. Milk for the coffee is bought from Australian owned companies, supporting local dairy farmers. All tips that are raised are donated to Australian dairy farmers who are struggling to make a living from the dollar-a-litre milk advertised by Coles and Woolworths. Some farmers are paid 55 cents for their
The end of 2017 brought a lot of joy for residents in Auburn, with the opening of the new, “Morning Owl.” A group of brothers decided that the community needed to catch up with the growing brunch trend and opened an exciting café, providing a halal-friendly environment for customers. The manicured garden captures the attention, as seating is placed outdoors amongst beautiful plants and trees creating a warm and natural atmosphere. Occasionally a friend pops in, the African Grey parrot and monitors customers to ensure they enjoy their food. The simple yet creative menu is renowned
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litre of milk, which Coles and Woolworths then sell for a dollar bargain on their shelves. Morning Owl’s tip donation is a small but important step to provide assistance to Aussie farmers and raise awareness of their cause. Morning Owl is the new hidden treasure in the area. Great coffee, great company and a wonderful family enterprise that supports the community. The Owl has awakened. Visit the cafe at 16/17 George Young Street, Auburn Sydney, Australia Follow their FB and Instagram @Morning Owl. Ibrahim Taha is a young, first year student at Sydney University. Ibrahim is involved in many organisations and has keen interest in politics, religion and social issues.
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Jailed Kashmiri leader’s daughter tops class 12 exams
UMMAH Former judge is caretaker prime minister of Pakistan
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Ex-chief justice Nasir-ul-Mulk, who will take over on 1 June and will be responsible for Pakistan’s upcoming general election. Mulk, 68, served as chief justice of Pakistan’s Supreme Court for just over a year in 2014, and holds a reputation for being politically neutral. The opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, led by cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan, welcomed the appointment of Mulk as “a respectable name and a suitable choice for the slot of caretaker PM.” (Courtesy Aljazeera)
The daughter of a jailed Kashmiri leader Shabir Shah has topped the CBSE Class 12 exams in Jammu and Kashmir, scoring 97.8 percent marks. Sama Shabir Shah, a student at Delhi Public School in Srinagar scored 489 out of 500 marks. Sama’s father is lodged in Delhi’s Tihar Jail. He was arrested by the National Investigation Agency or NIA last year in July in a
decade-old case of terror funding. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti congratulated Sama for her performance. “Congratulations to Sama Shabir Shah for securing 97.8% marks in the class 12th class examination. Her hard work & determination has helped her overcome all odds & she is truly an inspiration for the youth of our state,” Ms Mufti tweeted.
PETITION: Australia, US Condemned For Opposing Probe Into Israel’s slaughter
Muslim refugee rescues dangling child in Paris Israeli snipers on the Gaza border, in May 2018. An online petition has been launched by Australians for Palestine condemning the Australian Government’s decision to vote with the United States to block a UN investigation into the slaughter of more than 100 Palestinians by Israel over the past six weeks during the Great March of Return protests. Since March 30, 112 Palestinians have been killed and more than 13,000 injured, including 700 children, during unarmed protests at the border between Israel and Gaza. “We deplore the action of the Australian
Mamoudou Gassama (right) with Emmanuel Macron, President of France. Mamoudou Gassama, an immigrant from der-Man” and many in France considMali, scaled a building in Paris on Satur- er him a hero. He will be awarded day 26 May night and saved a child who the citizenship of France and had been dangling from the fourth floor of has been offered a job with a building. the Fire Brigade. The act earned him the nickname “Spi-
‘Thank the Party!’ Inside China’s Muslim brainwashing camps
Hour upon hour, day upon day, Omir Bekali and other detainees in far western China’s new indoctrination camps had to disavow their Islamic beliefs, criticise themselves and their loved ones and give thanks to the ruling Communist Party. When Bekali, a Kazakh Muslim, refused to follow orders each day, he was forced to stand at a wall for five hours at a time. A week later, he was sent to solitary confinement, where he was deprived of food for 24 hours. After 20 days in the heavily guarded JUNE 2018 / ISSUE 151
government in voting with the US in opposing the UN Human Rights Council inquiry into the slaughter of over 100 Palestinians in Gaza and the maiming of many thousands,” the petition reads. “We call on the Australian government to join the international community by calling for an immediate end to the eleven year Israeli siege of Gaza, the Occupation of the West Bank and East Jerusalem and the ongoing discrimination and dispossession of Palestinian people.” (Courtesy New Matilda)
Indian media highly biased towards BJP A sting operation by a news organisation called Cobrapost claims to have revealed a deeply engrained bias towards the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) within many of India’s leading media groups, as well as a willingness among some of the country’s most senior media executives and journalists to take money in return for pushing a political agenda. Cobrapost, a small but controversial outlet known for undercover stings, describes itself as a non-profit news organisation that believes too much journalism in India has been “trivialised”. It has dubbed its story “Operation 136” – the figure is a reference to India’s ranking in the 2017 World Press Freedom Index. Their website says its recordings show that some of the country’s leading news organisations are willing to “not only cause communal disharmony among citizens, but also tilt the electoral outcome in favour of a particular party”- and all in return for cash. An undercover reporter from Cobrapost, Pushp Sharma, says he approached more than 25 of India’s leading media organisations, offering them all a similar deal. Mr Sharma says he outlined a three-stage strategy his paymasters wanted to bankroll. First, he proposed the media organisations promote what he describes as “soft
Media Scan Ainullah
camp, he wanted to kill himself. In the past year, Chinese authorities in the heavily Muslim region of Xinjiang have ensnared tens, possibly hundreds of thousands of Muslim Chinese – and even foreign citizens – in mass internment camps. This detention campaign has swept across Xinjiang, a territory half the area of India, leading to what a US commission on China last month said is “the largest mass incarceration of a minority population in the world today”. The internment program aims to rewire the political thinking of detainees, erase their Islamic beliefs and reshape their very identities. The camps have expanded rapidly over the past year, with almost no judicial process or legal paperwork. Detainees who most vigorously criticise the people and things they love are rewarded, and those who refuse to do so are punished with solitary confinement, beatings and food deprivation. (Courtesy SMH)
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Hindutva” – the idea that Hindu faith and values are the defining ideology of India. He suggested this could involve promoting the sayings of Lord Krishna or retelling stories from the Bhagvad Gita, the epic poem that is one of the most holy texts of Hinduism. The next stage would involve attacks on the BJP’s political rivals, particularly Rahul Gandhi, the leader of the main opposition Congress Party. Finally, the plan was to move on to promoting incendiary speeches from some of hard-line proponents of Hindutva, including some divisive radical Hindu figures. The idea of this stage of the operation, Mr Sharma explained to some of the executives, was to polarise voters in the hope that the BJP would benefit at the ballot box. (Courtesy BBC)
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From “Shoa” to “Nakba” AMUST
Catastrophe is Catastrophe in any language Shifa L Mustapha In April 2014 I received an invitation from a member of my extended family to join a pilgrimage to Auschwitz. Hitherto this facet of family history had been to me unknown, unexplored. It was a journey I could not take physically, but certainly it became an emotional journey of further research and illumination. April 2014 was the 70th anniversary of the escalation of the Catastrophe, or Shoa, for the Jews of Hungary which would rapidly deteriorate into genocide. On 2 April 1944 it was demanded that Jews wear the yellow star; on 5 April a law was passed for Jews to be moved into ghettos, this was implemented on 7 April and from thence deportation. By August 437,402 Jews had been deported to Auschwitz-Birkenau. Of this number only 15,000 survived. The situation in Europe Years of anti-Semitism had led to bigotry and apartheid, overt hatred and cruelty, with Jews being regarded as less than animals. Religiously Jews in Europe were targeted, just as we see today with the targeting of Islam, Judaism was tarnished by manufactured tales. Persecution and massacres led to the forced exodus of Jews with many becoming refugees seeking shelter and places to exist humanely; to work and worship freely as is every human being’s right under Heaven. As dreadful as this had been, it reached its zenith with the rise of Nazi Germany under Hitler. As his armies entered country after country, so too began the displacement and continued persecution, ultimately claiming
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On route to Auschwitz.
Palestinian refugees leaving the Galilee the lives of so many Jews and others who fell foul of the Reich. The Shoa had arrived! The Holocaust was now here! Questions to be answered Up to this point I can understand most of this historical outrage – but there are ques-
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tions which must be answered: (i) what was the world doing while thousands were being degraded, persecuted, oppressed, fearing for their lives, ultimately being driven off and taken to death camps? (ii) What of those who had managed to escape, only to be turned away from entry into other countries as noted in US and UK? They were returned to their countries of origin and certain death. (iii) Why were the citizens in their countries of origin so bereft of humanity? Was it because the Jews had been so dehumanised that their lives were no longer of any value? An even greater tragedy Post-war much occurred. Political wheeling and dealing, including a hefty Christian Zionist influence, brought about the decision to bring the Jewish refugees to Palestine. Many thus entered Palestine to start a new life in the land that had been home to both Jews and Arabs for centuries. It is important to note that prior to 1948 there had been peace and respect between these children of Abraham, and that is how one would have hoped it to continue. However a new era had come into play. Reading even documented events by Israeli historians brings to light the ruthlessness of the new arrivals. Palestinian Arabs were tricked, persecuted, massacred or forced to flee their houses and lands. The saddest part is that, as in the writings of a Christian Palestinian peace activist of that era, Elias Chacour, the arrival of the Jewish refugees was greeted by the Arabs of Palestine with sympathy for their “Jewish brothers who had gone through so much.” His villagers, like so many others, even prepared a special welcome for them. [1] It is hard to comprehend how and why the saga of Israel/Palestine could possibly have come about considering the circumstances. How could those from the European Catastrophe now reflect the actions of the Reich upon those wishing no harm? There is now neither time nor space to write of the downward spiral which took place over the years of injustice and retaliation. However a breathtaking pattern has emerged in the mirror-image of events which we now see as the Israeli/Palestinian Catastrophe. Leading up to the Nakba It is now 70 years since the Palestinian Catastrophe. These seventy years have been filled by an occupation which encour-
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aged anti-Arab sentiment leading to bigotry, overt hatred and apartheid. Palestinians, just as their Jewish counterparts in earlier years, have been regarded as less than animals. Persecution and massacres led to the forced exodus of Palestinians, with many thousands becoming refugees seeking shelter and places to exist, humanely, in which to work and worship freely. As we again note, this is every human being’s right under Heaven. Death has come to them often, delivered quite nonchalantly. There are no qualms about killing them as seen this past week– just as it was for the Jews throughout the Shoa, we are now seeing it revisited upon their neighbours. Nevertheless, as bad as the past has been, we are noting an escalation in State-run violence. This appears to be due to the liaison between the President of the US and the Prime Minister of Israel, which may be noted in the shifting of the US embassy to Jerusalem and subsequent killings this month. The questions There are questions which must be answered here also: (i) what was the world doing while thousands were degraded, persecuted, murdered or, fearing for their lives ultimately fled or were pushed into ever-decreasing areas under Occupation? (ii) How is it that so-called religious people can be comfortable with the situation as it is now? (iii) Has it been because the Palestinians have been so dehumanised that their lives are no longer of any value? Has the Sermon on the Mount been forgotten by the Zionist Christian lobby, or is it the fact that even the suffering of Christian Palestinians is negligible? Tragedy and Joy To me, personally, the great tragedy is that those who understand the suffering of pogroms and death camps, who have been victims or children of victims of the Shoa have now become the perpetrators of the Nakba. However, the great joy for me personally is the number of Jewish brothers and sisters in Israel and worldwide who cannot tolerate the injustice of the regime or the killing of the innocent; who stand beside the Palestinians and lift their voices against the outrage being perpetrated against them. Throughout the world there are people of conscience now raising their voices, who are not blind to truth. They who stand for justice stand tall. May they forever remain blessed and a blessing.. Ameen. References [1] “Blood Brothers” p.20 by Elias Chacour with David Hazard, Kingsway Publications Ltd, 1987.
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Alumni condemn attack on Aligarh University Zia Ahmad The Aligarh Muslim University Alumni of Australia has strongly condemned the storming of the AMU Campus, earlier in May, by armed hooligans of a right wing Hindu organisation and subsequent brutal attack by UP police on protesting students. The AMU Alumni of Australia in solidarity with a number of Aligarh Alumni within India and overseas have released statements urging the Indian authorities to investigate this matter, punish the culprits and safeguard the security of the iconic institution including its staff and students. Senior members of the Alumni handed letters of concern, addressed to the Indian President Mr Ram Nath Govind and Prime Minister Mr Narendar Modi on Sunday 6 May to the High Commissioner of India in Canberra, Dr Gondane who assured them that they will be forwarded to the addressees. According to the Aligarh SSP, on Wednesday 2 May, 10 armed militants associated with RSS-affiliate Hindu Jagran Manch and Hindu Yuva Vahini tried to force their way through the University gate, assaulting se-
curity guards. They were shouting slogans and wanted to forcibly remove the portrait of Muhammad Ali Jinnah from the Students’ Union Hall and torched an effigy of him right then and there. The university security with the help of students overpowered them and six of them were handed over to the police who released them within half an hour and refused to enter an FIR against them. The AMU students then gathered in large number protesting in front of the police station and university gate known as Bab-eSyed led by student union leaders. A large police force arrived brutally charged the students with sticks (lathi-charge) using tear gas. This resulted in serious injury to more than 30 students amongst them AMU Student Union President, Mashkoor Usmani, Secretary Mohammad Fahad, former Secretary Mazin Zaidi and many other taken to hospital bleeding from head and limbs. According to University authorities, the extremist Hindu organisations have long been targeting Aligarh Muslim University, a national Muslim icon. The RSS has been demanding to open one of its branches at the campus. However
the portrait row was sparked by demand of Aligarh BJP MP Satish Gautam to remove Jinnah’s portrait from the campus. According to students and university staff, the timing of the attack was to coincide with the visit and a lecture by the former Vice President of India Mr Hamid Ansari, an AMU Alumni as well as a former Vice Chancellor. The program had to be cancelled. His wife, Mrs Salma Ansari was highly distressed by the event that she witnessed on the day and she commented as follows: “We reached AMU for a lecture by Hamid Ansari sahab at 5 pm. Slogan shouting protesters started accusing Hamid Ansari of being the cause behind the Jinnah portrait. Some carrying swords, guns and knives stormed the campus. Police lathi charged the students who were trying to stop the outsiders from entering the campus. The programme was cancelled. A lot of police came. Saw the ugly face of what is happening. Saw the ugly face of the crowd. Very ugly and very threatening. Saw 200 people from the University Guest House. Never saw something like this. Hamid Ansari was Vice Chancellor. Studied there myself. In my own country, I feel like ....am I really safe. Where have we reached? The students
were really badly beaten up by police. RSS members were caught and handed over to the police but the police did not do anything. Tear gas shells, lathi charge landed on the students. Never felt so insecure in my own country.” AMU Students’ Union and AMU Teachers’ Association had complained that rightwing activists had allegedly planned to attack former Mr Ansari but this was cleverly overlooked by almost all media outlets who focused their attention on the portrait of Jinnah and protest by students. The Indian mainstream media portrayed as if the AMU students were fighting for Jinnah’s picture in support of Pakistan while right-wing activists displaying Indian patriotism. The incident was dubbed by the media as the Jinnah-AMU row, rather than trespass on the campus by armed hooligans breaching university security and perhaps a failed attempt to attack Mr Ansari with the help of UP police. The state of Uttar Pradesh is currently governed by highly communal elements of the BJP, with not a single Muslim in governments ranks while Muslims constitute almost 20% of the population in this most populous state of India.
Iran in the spotlight: Trump’s anticipated move Shifa L Mustapha On Tuesday 8 May 2018, the world witnessed the withdrawal of the US from the Iranian nuclear deal, Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), by President Donald Trump. This was done with the usual flourish of his pen and held up for the world to witness as is his usual show-and-tell stance. However, there was nothing of the kindergarten about this action – it was one which holds serious ramifications for the world at large. This move had been signalled in earlier speeches in which he decried the JCPOA and the Obama administration’s efforts as being “the worst deal ever” while voicing his determination to scrap it. At this stage, the other signatories of JCPOA – UK, France, Germany, Russia, China, European Union and UN – have refused to drop the agreement and have spoken against this action. The US is now aligned with Israel, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and the Arab emirates. It was not enough to just scrap the agreement, the Trump administration had to have support and this was sought through ties to Israel and Saudi Arabia. Quite early in Donald Trump’s Presidency this courtship began. He found ready helpers in these regions, with the rise of Prince Mohammad Bin Salman Al Saud and Benjamin Netanyahu Prime Minister of Israel. Both were sworn enemies of Iran, religiously and politically. The Saudi Prince has worked long and hard to bring the Arab Emirates and Bahrain into alignment, while Benjamin Netanyahu has once again brought out his “smoking gun” to the attention of world leaders in an effort to blacken Iran. However, as usual, his theatrics were not wildly accepted particularly when it was discovered that his information was from JUNE 2018 / ISSUE 151
Prince Mohammad Bin Salman with President Donald Trump. before the JCPOA. One of the first indicators was the announcement that the US embassy would be moved to Jerusalem. This was not a move which would inspire peace within the volatile region. Nevertheless it has been warmly greeted by the Mayor of Jerusalem who on 8 May announced the naming of the square adjacent to the embassy as “United States Square in honor of President Donald Trump”. [1] Another very serious indicator was the accusation that Iran was involved in the September 11 attacks on the US. Although the 9/11 Commission found no evidence of Iranian support, still court action was sought and on May 2nd 2018, judgment was made against Iran with a demand for payment of over 6 billion dollars to be paid to the victims and relatives of the 9/11 attack. This is such a curious state of affairs when earlier Saudi Arabia was the focal point and had been accused of funding and supporting Al- Qaeda’s actions. It is notable that earlier this year Saudi Arabia called upon the US Federal Judge to reject the lawsuit holding the Kingdom to account for the same action as has now been levelled at Iran.
Of course the earlier statements and fatawa by Iranian Clerics regarding the inadmissibility for Iran to use nuclear energy for weapons of mass destruction on a religious basis have been labelled lies. How else could the JCPOA be destabilized unless the world at large was convinced of the duplicity of Iran in this instance? However, a paper was released by Iran in March 2014, not by the Iranian Supreme Leader alone, but by all Shi’ite Jurists, on the prohibition of, and the acquisition and use of Weapons of Mass Destruction (including nuclear weapons). Although nuclear energy is relatively new in international terms, nevertheless principles in Islamic Jurisprudence give ample testimony covering this phenomenon a follows: “The most prominent general principles that can be applied to weapons of mass destruction are principles governing differentiation of targets, protection of environment and ensuring safety and security of non-combatants during war and conflict. Since by definition, WMD are indiscriminate, make no distinction between military and civilian targets, have a long-lasting, destructive impact on the earth and the environment, and endanger the health of every-
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one, including those of future generations, one can readily find several long-established general principles of Islamic and particularly Shi’ite Jurisprudence applicable to WMD. Reference in this regard can be made to texts and edicts which are over a thousand years old.” [2] If one is to accept the Iranian stance on WMD as given in the paper of March 2014 as being the belief and principle to which they adhere, then, indeed, we are witnessing the gravest injustice. At the very least the 9/11 accusations against them are hollow untruths. At the most we are witnessing a whole nation being condemned and sentenced to a bleak future, no doubt in readiness for further attacks which may well ultimately create a global war. One may be forgiven for thinking that we, like Alice in Wonderland, have suddenly fallen down a rabbit hole into another dimension. It is as if, in some quarters, wrong is right, lies are truth and truths are lies; that honour is of no account and that lives of so many, from every side, are expendable in order to serve the purposes of those who deem it necessary.
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Ethical Values and Maqasid al-Shari‘ah in Meccan Qur’an Hakan Coruh It should be noted that the affairs of Islam are founded on the following order: Meta-physical principles, akhlaqarea, ‘ibadat (Worship), social regulations (law, trading). Moreover, the three principal themes of the Meccan revelations of the Qur’an are “Allah and his unity (tawhid),” “the coming resurrection and judgement,” and “righteous conduct.” Therefore, Muslims need to properly understand the concept of akhlaqand apply it in their daily lives. Akhlaqis the plural of qhuluq in Arabic, meaning “character and temperament of a person”. There are various aspects of ethical duties and responsibilities such as human’s duties towards himself/herself, physical, spiritual such as taqwa, hilm, hikmah, ‘iffat, honesty (sidq, istiqama), modesty (tawadu‘), ethical duties in family, social ethical duties and responsibilities, and ethical duties related to business and commerce (Cagrici, Ahlak, DIA). There are various verses regarding the many aspects of akhlaq. The Qur’an should be considered to be an ethics and theology book. As Muslims, we need to re-discover the universal principles of Meccan period and central akhlaqvalues of the Qur’an in the contemporary period. Muslim scholars produced many works on akhlaqand moral ethics throughout the Islamic history. ‘Adududdin al-Ijī’s (d. 756/1355) Akhlaq ‘Adudiyya (Risalat alAkhlaq) can be given as a great example from the literature. Various super-commentaries have been written on it, and Tashkoprizade’s Sharh al-Akhlaq al-‘Adudiyya is one of the well-known glosses. In the first chapter, al-Ijī focuses on the topics of theoretical ethics (nazarī akhlaq)
and discusses the soul’s (nafs) major functions such as intellect (‘aql), savage passion (qhadab), and animal appetites (shahwat), their excess (ifrāṭ) and deficiency (tafrīṭ), and the middle way (i‘tidal) of these three powers and the virtues when they are on the middle way (See, al-Ijī, Risalat al-Akhlaq). For example, ‘deficiency in the power of intellect (al-quwwa al-‘aqliyya) is stupidity and foolishness (ghabawat), and its excess, perfidious deception and over-meticulous-
ness in trivialities (jarbazah), and its middle way is wisdom (hikmah). Deficiency in the power of animal appetites (al-qawwa al-shahawiyya) is apathy and want of appetite (khumūd), while its excess is profligacy (fujūr), which is to desire whatever is encountered whether lawful or unlawful. Its middle way is uprightness (‘iffa), which is desiring what is licit and shunning what is illicit. Deficiency in the power of savage passion
(al-quwwa al-ghadabiyya) is cowardice, that is, fear of what is not to be feared and delusive imagining (jabānat, jubn). Its excess is uncontrolled anger (tahawwur), which is the progenitor of despotism, domination, and tyranny. And its middle way is courage (shaja ‘a), which is giving freely of oneself with love and eagerness for the defence of the laws of Islam and the upholding of the Word of divine unity. In summary, the Straight Path (al-ṣirāṭ al-mustaqīm) is justice, consisting of the blending and summary of wisdom (ḥikma), chastity (‘iffa), and courage (shajā‘a), which are the mean or middle way of the three degrees of man’s three powers.’ (Nursi, Signs of Miraculousness, trans. S Vahide) Meccan Qur’anic verses also indicate the primary objectives of the Shari‘ah (maqāṣidal-sharīʿah). According to Imam Shāṭibī (d. 790/1388), an Andalusian muslim scholar, there are five main purposes of the religions. They are protection of religion, protection of life, protection of progeny, protection of the mind and protection of wealth. Following maqāṣidmethod, a number of new values could be developed in response to the needs of the modern world. For example, Ramadan al-Bouti (mercy upon him) emphasises the necessity of including the concept of freedom (hurriya) as the sixth purpose of the religion (al-Bouti, Davabitu’l Maslaha). In this month of the Qur’an, we can read and contemplate on the Qur’an by considering these universal values and akhlaqprinciples of the Qur’an. Hakan Coruh is of Turkish background. Graduated from Ilahiyat and then completed Masters. After he came to Australia for a PhD at the end of 2009. After completing his PhD in 2015, he started to work as a lecturer at Centre for Islamic Studies and Civilisation, Charles Sturt University. He is still a lecturer and research supervisor for HDR students at Charles Sturt University.
‘The Qur’an Contains No Doubt’ The empirical testing of the claim Dr Rashid Raashed Passing the authenticity test is the end-game for all scriptures. It represents the crucial linchpin that holds together the veracity and reliability of a revealed religion. Without a verifiably authentic scripture behind, a religion is reduced to popular myths and legends of convenience. This is how it works: The source of revelation is God, who besides being the Omni-Potent and the Omni-Present, is also Super-natural in all His attributes. The human limitations ingrained in empirical learning, as habit, nature and process, is never sufficient to comprehend God the Unlimited fully, in all His attributes and functions. Logically, thus, the attempt to discover the Unlimited by the limitation of experimental knowledge, is bound to be futile. Worse still, is to deny as existing, what is beyond human capacity to experiment, explore and discover. Short of this approach, nothing would befit the human handicap other than a ‘poor short-sighted creature’! In contrast to this however, the human reaction ‘to deny the unknown and undiscovered to him, at a time and space given, has never been a new phenomenon’, the Qur’an argues. Instead, the right course of action should have been to wait for the experiment to prove true’[1]. Both the utility and interaction of the Qur’an and its Messenger in relation to their audience, have JUNE 2018 / ISSUE 151
been uniquely narrated as follows : ‘The warning and caution of the Qur’an will only work on those who hold themselves responsible to their own conscience. As well, those who live constantly accountable to the Most Merciful, in their own space of time and recounting’[2]. One would thus, be compelled to conclude that in holding the human being accountable to their own conscience and logic, nothing would come close! To acknowledge this and embrace it readily, will only make humans live true to their scope and ability. To doubt the existence of God, is a precursor to doubt human’s own existence as a privileged race over other animals. For humans to be the beneficiary of reason and logic, takes us to accept the existence of a benefactor-planner, who devised him into existence. The Qur’an depicts the Almighty God to be that Benefactor-Planner. In various ages, God has both guided and communicated with humans, through human prophets. Adam, Abraham, Jacob, Moses, Jesus and Mohammad, may peace and blessings of God be upon them all, represent the established chain of such prophets. Denying this would amount to the denial of glaring sun in midday. Through revelations, God intends to guide the humanity according to His desired action path. Both the choice and authority for this lie with God Himself, as the sole Creator of humans and the Sustainer of their lives on earth. Although, faith in such a God becomes an eventual part of it, for a responsible, systematic and critical thinker, there is no logical escape from it either. In the name of science or otherwise, denying the long chain of prophets and the legacies of their
scriptures would amount to denying the human history on earth. Empirically thus, also, there can be no logical escape from the God equation. For those who care, the belief in a revealed religion must stand for something much more substantive than the legend behind the Santa Clause and the Jingle Bell Christmas Carrols! To settle for any less would be a child’s play. Human thoughts and their conjectures on the other hand, albeit limited in their scopes and nature, must not be adopted in the name of science, as a pseudo God. Instead, the humanity would do much better acknowledging this limitation and celebrating its consequences. Science and innovations lie in the roots of human nature, by default. This is what makes a human head different to that of other biological species. Not only that the Qur’an acknowledges this but also encourages all efforts invested behind the science and innovations[3]. We know that not being known or discovered is never the proof of not being there. Of no less importance though, is to embrace that a discoverer is never a creator. The role of the empirical science is to discover the universe. But the real credit rests
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with the Creator of what has been discovered by the science. The relationship between the two is that of a beneficiary to a benefactor. The human race is the prime beneficiary of a precisely planned and functioning universe. The right question therefore is to ask, who is that matchless benefactor and planner? The Qur’an is both keen to ask this question and provide answers to it. To honour and acknowledge that Benefactor, is to be a grateful human. It is only within the realm of discovering the complex universe, the nature around and their functionality, that the human intelligence has made some notable strides. [1]. The Qur’an 10:39. [2]. The Qur’an 36:11. [3]. The Qur’an 88:17-21. Continued in next issue #152 or read full article online at https://wp.me/p4ICdM-4P4 Dr Rashid Raashed is the Chairman, Leadership University College (Bangladesh) & Director/Secretary, Islamic Financial Services Australia (IFSA) and is based in Sydney.
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Al-Zarqali: Astronomer and inventor of clocks Professor Irfan Shahid Al-Zarqali was one of the several great scientists produced by Islamic Spain. He advanced the study of astronomy through his extensive observations. He stated that Planetary Orbits are elliptical and not circular. He was also a mechanical engineer and maker of precision instruments. His public water clocks and advanced astrolabe have been highly admired. Life Abu Ishaq Ibrahim Ibn Yahya al Naqash
Al-Zarqali’s advanced astrolabe.
AL-Zarqali was born in Qurtuba (Cordova) in 420 AH / 1029 CE. In the west, he was known as Arzachel. Al-Zarqali means the blue-eyed. He belonged to a family of craftsmen who made several mechanical devices. He inherited his family skill. He stayed at Qurtubauntil he completed his education. He then moved to Talita (Toledo) where he entered the service of its Sultan al-Mamun. His Job was to make instruments for the astronomers of al-Mamun who were engaged in a major research project on astronomy. With hard worked and being highly talented, he soon became the director of the project. He spent a long fruitful year at Toledo, where he conducted extensive observations, made mechanical devices and astronomical instruments, and wrote a number of books. His water clock of Toledo attracted huge attention. Jewish scholar Moses ben Ezra wrote a poem about it. He left Toledo in 470 AH/ 1078 CE when it was repeatedly attacked by Alfonso VI, and went to Cordova where he continued his research. He died in Cordova in 493 AH/ 1100 CE Contribution Al- Zarqali wrote several books on astronomy and astronomical instruments and the most famous of his books is the Toledan Tables. It deals with various aspects of astronomy, like the determination of the right ascensions, the equation of sun, moon and planets, ascendant, parallax, eclipses, the setting of planets, theory of trepidation, tables of stellar positions, trigonometrical tables etc.
The Toledan Tables was translated into Latin by Gerard of Cremona (d. 1187) and was highly popular in Europe and in the Islamic world. His other works were also translated into Latin and Hebrew from the twelfth century onwards. In fact, some of his works are preserved in their Latin versions only, the Arabic originals having been lost. He influenced a number of Islamic and European scientists, like Johannes Kepler and Regiomontanus. Al-Zarqali stated that the orbits of planets are elliptical a n d not circular five centuries before Kepler (d. 1630). He established that with reference to stars the solar apogee is variable. He determined the longitude of the Regulus; presented improved trigonometrical tables of sines, cosines, versed sines, secants and tangents; calculated the obliquity of the ecliptic at between 13.13” and 13.5”; pre-
sented the stereographic projection of the sphere on a plane etc. Al-Zarqali constructed an advanced version of the astrolabe used in Europe for a long time as sphaea (from al-Sahifa). However, his two public water clocks set up at Toledo evoked great admiration. They consisted of a precise lunar calendar and two vessels which gradually filled while the moon was waxing and emptied as the moon waned. They were fore-runners of the clocks and planetary calendar machines of the seventeenth century Europe. The clocks were in the use until 1133 when they were dismantled by orders of Alfonso VII to find out their workings but could not be restored. 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
Upcoming conference on “Islamic Schooling Renewal - A Focus on Pedagogy” Ramila Chanisheff The 3rd Annual Australian Islamic Schooling Conference with the theme “Islamic Schooling Renewal – A Focus on Pedagogy” will be held on Tuesday 10 and Wednesday 11 July 2018 in Adelaide, South Australia organised by Centre for Islamic Thought and Education, University of South Australia. Pedagogy can be defined in many ways, narrowly as a way of teaching or a methodology of instruction, and more broadly as a framework for conceptualising what is meant by approaches to schooling. A critical reflection on pedagogy within the field of Islamic schooling is timely as we move beyond the establishment phase and embrace an era characterised by renewal. If one considers the provocation that pedagogy is never politically neutral, a unique lens for exploration exists in the field of Is-
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lamic schooling given the complex politics of Muslims and Islam in popular Australian media as well as in other contemporary Western contexts and the intersection with contemporary schooling contexts, sometimes criticised as neoliberal. How much progress has been made in the area of pedagogy within Islamic schooling? What is an Islamic pedagogy and what does it offer to the field of Islamic schooling? Are our current pedagogies responsive to the educational context and the needs of Australian Muslim students? How does pedagogical practice in Islamic schools align with AITSL teacher standards? How equipped is the field of Islamic schooling to manage necessary pedagogical renewal? These are just some of the questions that Islamic Schooling Renewal – A Focus on Pedagogy will tackle over two conference days, as it examines pedagogy and Islamic schooling for Muslim students from a whole-of-life and whole-of-community per-
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spective. With an impressive line-up of international and national speakers from specialist disciplines and diverse sectors, Islamic Schooling Renewal – A Focus on Pedagogy is sure to offer valuable and practical insights into the future of pedagogy in Islamic schooling in the West. The conference will critically explore pedagogy and Islamic schooling for Muslim students from a whole-of-life and whole-of-community perspective. Topics and themes of presentations will include the following but not limited to: • Conceptualisations of pedagogy in Islamic schooling • Pedagogy – theory and praxis • Pedagogical leadership • Politics and pedagogy • Pedagogy, identity and citizenship • Critical pedagogical perspectives • Culturally Responsive Pedagogy • Professional learning communities – pedagogical conversations • Pedagogy and implications for curriculum and assessment • Professional learning and teacher educa-
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tion The 3rd Annual Australian Islamic Schooling Conference: Islamic Schooling Renewal – A Focus on Pedagogy will be held on Tuesday 10 and Wednesday 11 July 2018 in Adelaide, South Australia. For more information please contact cite@unisa.edu.au or 08 8302 6919.
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The Covenants of Compassion from the Messenger of Mercy Part 3 Dr John Andrew Morrow Read part one and two: https://wp.me/p4ICdM-4rM Although the Covenants of the Prophet were common knowledge to educated Muslims throughout most of Islamic history, knowledge of them faded after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire in the early 20th century. While the works of Hamidullah and Miyanji were familiar to some Muslim scholars, it was only after the publication of The Covenants of the Prophet Muhammad with the Christians of the World that knowledge of them became widespread. The publication of the book in 2013 inspired the Covenants Initiative, an international movement that calls upon Muslims to abide by the spirit and the letter of the Covenants of the Prophet as they are in perfect agreement with the traditional teachings of the Qur’an and Sunnah. The Covenants Initiative has been signed by over three hundred Muslim scholars, intellectuals, and activists. The movement helped inspire the Marrakesh Declaration on the rights of religious minorities in the Mus-
lim world as well as the Fortenberry Resolution which condemned ISIS for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide. Fourteen hundred years after the death of the Prophet, these Covenants demonstrate that the indiscriminate killing of innocent civilians by extremist groups and the destruction of their religious buildings represents a gross violation of the teachings of the Qur’an and the Prophet, including the Prophet’s letters and Covenants. Indeed, these Covenants can serve as a source of inspiration for the establishment of insuperable harmony between the three Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The Covenants of the Prophet can strengthen tolerance, goodwill, and better understanding between faiths. They represent a genuine call for reconsidering the deteriorated relationships between the three religions. These findings serve to promote peaceful coexistence, respect, and care beyond mere tolerance. In fact, they shed light upon the nature and policy of the Prophet vis a vis how to govern diverse groups and maintain relationships among other people, both of which are completely in line with the Prophet’s life
and teachings. Whether it is the Constitution of Medina, the letters or Covenants of the Prophet, or the Qur’an, these teachings represent a practical example for how to build peaceful
and successful relationships between different faith communities in the contemporary world.
Zakat: divine welfare system Dr Jan A Ali Islam is built upon five pillars: faith, prayer, alms, fasting, and pilgrimage and is therefore considered more than just a spiritual system. Among these pillars zakat is at the third position. It reveals Islam’s acknowledgement of the existence of poverty in society and therefore highlights an obvious relationship between charity and poverty. This is a dialectic relationship in which charity is seen to lead to the alleviation or eradication of poverty and poverty in turn lead to charity. Zakat as a means of support and relief for the poor and needy is a divine commandment. It reflects Islam’s strong focus on social and economic justice and serves to provide, through the enforcement of social obligation, fiscal measures, and legal responsibility, a fair and equitable redistribution of wealth. Its fundamental function as a social justice practice is to, through an equitable growth for all members, alleviate affliction and maintain harmony and stability in society. Zakat is an annual financial obligation prescribed to all financially capable Muslims and is a basic institution that seeks to fulfill the needs of the poor and needy in the form of an established socio-economic security system. Of course zakat is not the only institution in Islam for the purpose of alleviating or even eradicating poverty as other institutions such as waqf (religious endowment) and infaq (charity to please God without asking for any favour) also exist. However, it is worth noting that zakat which is clearly prescribed in the Qur’an and sunnah (tradition of Prophet Muhammad (s)) is the most important and prominent institution of social justice and charity in Islam expressly designed as a tool for addressing poverty and fulfilling the needs of the poor and needy and, therefore, the central focus of this paper. Zakat is an Arabic term which means “growth”, “increase”, “that which purifies” JUNE 2018 / ISSUE 151
or “alms”. One will find that the reference to zakat is made over two dozen times in the Qur’an. At three places in the Qur’an God issues specific command on the payment of zakat whilst twenty-seven times zakat and prayer are mentioned together. In one place in particular zakat is mentioned with prayers in the same sequence of verses, “those who humble themselves in their prayers” (Qur’an 23: 2) and “who are active indeed in charity” (Qur’an 23: 4). These two fundamental religious practices are clear indicators of the significance of the vertical relationship between Muslims and God founded on prayer and charity, on the one hand, and the horizontal relationship between Muslims through dispensing part of one’s wealth to another, particularly to one in need, on the other hand. Paying zakat, therefore, on the part of Muslims is an act of worship and obedience to God. It is for this reason the horizontal relationship is considered by Muslims to be worship, albeit in lower form, because it shows one’s concern for others, both at an individual level as well as at the level of the ummah (community of believers). Zakat is an obligatory or legal almsgiving and seen by Muslims as part of their service to God. God commands the believers to give charity regularly and freely with a particular emphasis on concern for the poor, the needy, and the wayfarer.
It is clear that zakat is an Islamic welfare and social system and one of the five pillars of Islam under which Islamic social and economic justice practices operate. Zakat involves giving a fixed portion of one’s wealth to the poor and needy and according to Sunni majority Muslim scholars there are four rates of zakat that depend on the type of assets one possesses. The most common is a fixed rate of 2.5% on capital income (cash, gold, silver, sellable goods, and receivable debts). On land crops that are produced from rain or spring water or water extracted from the river the rate of 10% zakat applies and the rate depletes to 5% when the crops are produced from animal powered irrigated water. For resources existing underground, the Hadiths is unclear, but the scholars of Islam consent to 20% zakat on hidden “treasures” and 5% on extracted minerals. The recipients of zakat are determined by God Himself in the Qur’an. In the Qur’an, God says: “Sadaqat [here it means zakat] are only for the fuqara (poor), and miskin (the needy), and those employed to collect (the funds), and to attract the hearts of those who have been inclined (towards Islam), and to free the captives, and for those in debt, and for Allah’s cause, and the wayfarer. A duty imposed by Allah: and Allah is All-knower, All-Wise.”(Qur’an 9: 60). This verse identifies eight categories of
heads who qualify to receive zakat funds. These are: 1. Al-Fuqara (those living in absolute poverty), 2. Al-Masakin (those who are unable to meet their basic needs), 3. Al-Amilina Alaiha (the collectors and administrators of zakat), 4. Al-Muallafatu Qulubuhum (non-Muslims who show attraction or inclination towards Islam), 5. Fir-Riqab (people attempting to free slaves), 6. Al-Gharimin (people consumed by overwhelming debt who need to meet their basic needs), 7. Fi Sabilillah (those engaged in the cause of Allah), and 8. Ibnus-Sabil (wayfarers). There are other Qur’anic verses (Qur’an 76: 8; Qur’an 51:19; and Qur’an 70:24-25) and the sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (s) that identifies orphans, destitute, and prisoners of war as people who also qualify to receive zakat. As a process of wealth redistribution, the collection and redistribution of zakat is a substantial exercise to alleviate poverty.
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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.
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Amity Parents tour of Japan 2018
We started off in Osaka and from there travelled to Kyoto to discover its historical and cultural charm. In Kyoto we visited breathtaking temples nestled in the mountains. It was here in Kyoto where men and women were dressed in the traditional Kimonos. Among our experiences in Kyoto were visiting the 1000 red arches and a relaxing river cruise, taking in the city and endless riverbanks and parks lined with cherry blossom trees. We cannot forget the fresh taste of sushi, although some struggled with the chopsticks. Next, our journey took us on a one-hour flight to Tokyo, where we were pampered
Zena Marbaani The Parent Relations Department at Amity College organised a tour for parents to Japan from 28 March - 3 April comprising of 11 people who toured the cities of Kyoto, Osaka, Yokohama and Tokyo. Spring sunshine, cherry blossom trees and picturesque snapshots of nature all around. This was the daily encounter for the lucky Amity College parents who left behind the hustle and bustle of Sydney to jet set off to Japan in April. The group of parents had a jam-packed itinerary stretching over 5 days.
for 3 days in the luxurious Intercontinental Hotel, Yokohama. We experienced Tokyo by day and also had the chance to see the bright city night lights. It was in Tokyo where we experienced a ride in the fastest train in the world, the bullet train. We were also fascinated by watching the busiest intersection in the world. The group was taken back in time in the Samurai Museum followed by scaling heights for a birds-eye view of the entire city of Tokyo. In both cities, we had the pleasure of visiting our sister schools, as well as the current construction site for Horizon International
College near Tokyo. We were hosted by the Osaka and Tokyo Turkish Cultural Centers for breakfast and tea. Every night a host family would spoil us with delicious Turkish cuisine, dessert and tea, where stories and laughter were shared into the late hours of the night. A truly amazing experience, filled with memories that are forever etched into our minds. A special thank you goes out to Gurkan Gurbuz, the Parent Relations Manager at Amity College who organised such a memorable trip. Zena Marbaani is parent as well as a teacher at Amity College based in Sydney.
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We will be at the Multicultural Eid Festival at Fairfield Showground on July 8, so come to speak with us.
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The immersive world of Virtual Reality AMUST Media This week marks the tenth year for the popular 2018 Sydney Vivid Festival which sees major landmarks, such as the Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, The University of Sydney and other landmarks illuminated with light projections. Houssam Bizri has a number of public lectures scheduled under the banner “ Vivid Ideas” in collaboration with The University of Newcastle Sydney campus. One of the featured vivid lectures titled “The Vivid World of VR” was presented on Friday night 25 May with near full capacity of attendees from the general public. The session focused on the history of virtual reality technology taking participants on a journey with plenty of amazing video examples explaining the differences between Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Mixed Reality (MR) and how they are being currently deployed in industries. VR, Why Now? Houssam explained that initially, the VR technology was constricted to the gaming industry, which has, however, changed with major tech and mobile giants such as Samsung and Apple releasing new hardware to mainstream with devices that are already VR ready. He stressed that VR/AR/ MR in few years will soon be embedded in our everyday lives while technology hardware costs become cheaper and people become more adaptable to using it. While there will always be sceptics by questioning the effectiveness of using such
Houssam Bizri conducting his lecture “The Vivid World of VR”. new mediums, Houssam showcased that shifts in technology that reshapes and enMark Zuckerberg founder of Facebook, in hances our environments and the way we one of his lengthy interviews talked about live, now, VR/AR/MX is the new wave. why he invested $2 billion to acquire Oculus the VR company back in 2015. VR in Industry All major large corporations such as Goog“The future of e-Commerce will be v-Comle, Apple, Facebook are investing big in VR merce” technology which is shaping future trends. In his public lecture, Houssam demonstratHoussam spent the last two decades in the ed how VR has already been utilized in many technology spaces and he illustrated to the industries such as education, medicine, engiaudience that in the early nineties we moved neering, defense, aviation, business, commufrom using mainframe computing to desktop nication, construction, design, entertainment, PC, then the Internet was born which took us gaming, manufacturing, marketing, sports, to mobile and social computing. travel, while retail shopping and the fashion Within every decade there will be major industry are taking to the technology with
speedy open arms. In late 2016, eBay launched what was known as the first virtual reality shopping center. The e-Commerce giant teamed up with Myer (Australia’s largest shopping chain) to offer immersive and virtual shopping experience. By using an iOS or Android app along with a Google cardboard headset users can shop virtually using the app promising a better shopping experience than the normal online shopping. Another example discussed was of IKEA and Apple who teamed up in 2017 to create “the next big thing in retail,” by collaborating on the development of an app that puts IKEA furniture right in your home. Last year, hundreds of augmented reality enthusiasts were who played Pokémon Go on their mobile phones, ended up near the IKEA store in Rhodes by following the characters across the mobile device GPS to locate, capture, battle, and train virtual creatures, called Pokémon, which appear as if they are in the player’s real-world location. Just imagine how future virtual marketing efforts along with gamification and AR could lure shoppers to a specific shopping center or to an area to increase traffic. Where to next! Houssam will be conducting one more public lecture for 2018 on VR and plans to run the same lecture for Startup Ummah after Ramadan. Want to know more? Contact Houssam directly or check the Startup Ummah website for more details: http://startupummah.com.
Religious vilification: a test case analysis Hyder Gulam This month’s edition of AMT I want to discuss one of the most profound legal cases in Australian Muslim legal history. That case was Catch the Fire Ministries Inc & Ors v Islamic Council of Victoria Inc [2006] VSCA 284. First, as by way of background, the introduction of the Racial and Religious Tolerance Act 2001 (Vic) (RRTA) marked a distinct shift in Victoria’s approach to racial and religious vilification. This was particularly evident in regards to religious vilification, as prior to this Act there existed no criminal or civil offence of religious vilification. The object of the RRTA were: 1. to promote racial and religious tolerance by prohibiting certain conduct involving the vilification of persons on the ground of race or religious belief or activity. 2. to provide a means of redress for the victims of racial or religious vilification. The Islamic Council of Victoria v Catch the Fire Ministries Inc. (herein ICV and CTFM respectively) was really a test case for the RRTA. The ICV, as the peak Muslim organization in Victoria, complained that the Catch the Fire Ministries, a Pentecostal religious organisation of which Pastor Danny Nalliah and Pastor Daniel Scot were public officers, had breached the RRTA. The parties without resolution attempted conciliation before the case was heard at in the tribunal and court. The case extended over three years. The ICV alleged that there had been three breaches of the RRTA. • Comments made by a Pastor of the church at a publicly advertised seminar discussing Islam were found to be “essentially hostile, demeaning, and derogatory to all Muslim people... and in general Muslim religious beliefs and practices”. • Articles in the Summer 2001 edition of JUNE 2018 / ISSUE 151
Catch the Fire Newsletter entitled “rise Up or Pay the price”, were found to have portrayed Islam as the ‘enemy’ who planned to take over Australia. It was determined that the material incited hatred against Muslims ‘as it engendered fear and created the impression Muslims are seeking to take over Australia.’ • An article published on the CTFM website in 2001, entitled, “An insight into Islam by Richard”, was found to have implied that “Islam was an inherently violent religion and it was not possible to separate Islam from terrorist groups”, suggesting that ‘Muslims endorse the killing of people based on their religion.” On December 2004, at VCAT, Judge Michael Higgins that Daniel Nalliah and Daniel Scot were found to have breached the RRTA and CTFM were found to have authorised and assisted vilification. An application for appeal on 16 grounds
was made after the conclusion of the VCAT case. Three Justices of the Victorian Supreme Court of Appeal found that the Tribunal had erred in their interpretation of the relevant part of the RRTA (section 8) and the case law used to substantiate this interpretation. This led to the Court of Appeal overruling many of the legal justifications for the decision, and restructuring the test to be applied in deciding whether section 8 of the Act had been breached or not. Significantly, the Victorian Supreme Court of Appeal, whilst outlining what it believed to be the relevant law and tests to be applied, refused to make a final ruling upon the issue and instead referred it to be reheard in VCAT. However, the parties settled out of court and the case was never reheard. As a postscript, a Parliamentary Internship Report by Andrew Roe for Luke Donnellan, Member for Narre Warren North,
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2009 surveyed Victorian religious organizations’ perceptions of the RRTA. The key findings have been that: “Religious bodies fell into two broad camps on whether Victoria needs the RRTA or whether it should be repealed, the Uniting Church, Islamic Council of Victoria, B’nai B’rith Anti-Defamation Commission, and the Catholic Church supporting the Act, with Catch the Fire Ministries, and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints opposing the Act.” Hyder Gulam, AMUST Legal Writer, 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.
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COMMUNITY 9 - 15
AUSTRALIA 16 - 19
CENTREFOLD 20 - 21
Colouring activity To:
EID MUBARAK From:
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ISSUE 151 / JUNE 2018
LIFESTYLE 22 - 26
UMMAH 27 - 29
TOP 6 Ramadan Memes
EDUCATION 30 - 33
TRAVEL 34
BUSINESS 35
TOP 5 Tweets #Gaza
#SOCIAL
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AMUST
App Review: Muslim Hub
VIDEO
To Watch
AMUST Media
Randa Abdel Fattah on QandA
Lawyer and author, Randa Abdel-Fattah appeared on QandA on 21 May discussing the recent Gaza massacre where Palestinian Protesters were murdered by the Israeli Army. She used her platform to put the protests into context of the conditions Palestinians are suffering under and didn’t hold back her excellent points and passionately spoke about the dehumanisation of Palestinians. “Where do I start? Let’s start with why Palestinians are protesting in Hamas... in the Gaza strip. I think it’s important to put this into context if we’re really to make sense of this conflict. They are protesting a brutal siege. They are an open-air prison – the largest concentration camp in the world, as it has been described by a prominent Israeli sociologist. They are about 1.8 million people in a size of about 355 square kilometres. There’s about 41km by 10-12km. They have a blockade for the last 11 years. Israel described it as economic warfare, where they were calculating the number of calories that Palestinians could live under, just short of starvation. They have a population of 75% under the age of 25. 51% of those are children. 97% of the water is poisonous. It is undrinkable. And why is that? Because Israel denied them a water desalination plant and bombed their water treatment facility in the 2008 and 2009 siege. And this is the dehumanising rhetoric that we get when it comes to the Palestinians. That when they protest against something that we would all protest against, they are considered terrorists, and they are blamed for their own murder, as Julie Bishop implied in her tweet, where she put first, before any criticism of Israel, that the Palestinians should exercise restraint. So she is clearly siding there with people who are using expanding bullets on children, on people who are protesting, people who are 700m from a perimeter fence. So, yes, I’m angry on behalf of Palestinians that it takes us this long for the world to wake up. Wake up to what’s happening to Palestinians under our watch. It’s a shame. It’s a disgrace that Australia voted against something that doesn’t even need an investigation. It’s no mystery. It’s no mystery what happened. There’s live testimony. There’s video evidence. There’s photographic evidence. We don’t need another investigation, and then what’s going to happen after that? Nothing. Nothing.”
MuslimHub is a community catalyst It is designed specially for the Muslim communities. It enables Islamic organisations & masjids to update their followers instantaneously. Features – All Eid Salah locations collated in one page – Find Eid Salah locations based on suburb – Introducing “Next Iqamah Around Me” – Worlds first mobile app functionality to list iqamah times around your location – Progressively adding all masjids in Sydney – Bug fixes Reviews muwaaz ahmad “May Allah always keep this project active and bless the people involved” Akram El Sabrouty “Great application ! I hope to see Arabic interface in the future. Thank you” Mohamed Mohamed Alamsa “Great App” Mukhlis Mah “Excellent App Well worth the download inshallah. Let’s build and connect our community!”
The video has been seen 37 000 times, in the video, she speaks at 4:15. Video: https://www.facebook.com/ abcqanda/videos/10155255684866831/ JUNE 2018 / ISSUE 151
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#SOCIAL
NEWS 1-4
BOOMERANG 5-8
COMMUNITY 9 - 15
Nazeem Hussain
Dr Mehal Krayem launched her book Heroes, Villains and the Muslim Exception: Muslim and Arab Men in Australian Crime Drama, on Thursday 03 May 2018 at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). The event was hosted by Melbourne University Press Academic and the Australian Association of Islamic and Muslim Studies Inc. Mehal Krayem completed a PhD in Communications at UTS. She is a researcher and academic concerned with race, gender and religion. Mehal’s current research projects tackle issues of bystander racism, as well as immigration and social cohesion.
Comedian, Nazeem Hussain was the subject for an Archibald finalist, Melissa Ritchie. Melissa Ritchie is a figurative artist and Archibald finalist. Her paintings are a satirical celebration of the sitter, vivid, colourful and vintage in design. The painting shows Nazeem with an open jar of Vegemite, smearing some on his face. He commented on Instagram, “The incredibly talented @melissaritchieart painted me for the Archibald Prize!! I am super honoured to have been her subject - her work is peerless, and she really ought to win! #Archibald”
Rugby Australia launched its new brand campaign #PartOfMore which showcases Rugby in a whole new light. The series also showcases inspiring women such as Raja from Sydney whose family has found acceptance through their local Rugby community Raja and her family of five from Sydney shares how Rugby connected them to the wider community. On the field there’s no social status or identity – it’s just about how good you can play. Raja believes Rugby has the power to bring people together irrespective of where they come from.
Dental Care Guildford
Ramia Sultan
Abdul-Rahman Abdullah
ABC
Local Business Award
Dental Care Guildford won the category of Health Improvement Services for the second time at the Cumberland Local Business Awards on 29 May 2018. Dental Care Guildford reflected on their award and wrote on Facebook “We are finalists in the Cumberland local business award for health improvement. Thank you so much for the support. We were winners in 2017 and feel humbled and happy to be nominated again. Running a business is very hard yet moments like this make it very rewarding. Thank you so very much for your support.”
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CENTREFOLD 20 - 21
Raja Daniel Arzani Archibald Subject Rugby Australia Hyundai A-League
Mehal Krayem
Melbourne Uni Press
AUSTRALIA 16 - 19
Lawyer, Ramia Sultan was interviewed for an ABC article on Ramadan. Sitting in her office in Sydney’s southwest, Ms Sultan said apart from the important spiritual aspect of the month-long fast from dawn to dusk, it is all about planning ahead for her three school-aged children, aged 11, 9 and 7.” “There is a bit of panic that goes with the beginning of Ramadan, with questions like how are we going to cope? How are we going to juggle everything we that we normally do throughout the day?” Ms Sultan said.
AUSTRALASIAN MUSLIM TIMES
UNSW Galleries
Featured artist Abdul-Rahman Abdullah is involved in a new art exhibition in Sydney that explores the contemporary Australian Muslim experience. He said he hoped the viewer will “see the complexity, the diversity (and) the different ways that a Muslim artist might express that”. The Khalas exhibition at UNSW Galleries in Sydney features works across a number of mediums. A group of 15 artists has explored the contemporary Australian Muslim experience in a new exhibition.
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Daniel Arzani is an Australian professional soccer player. He plays as a central midfielder and winger for Melbourne City Football Club and the Australian national team. He was featured in a Hyundai A-League. video reflecting on his plans for the future. He is a potential Socceroos player for the World Cup in Russia 2018. Having been born in Iran he is qualified to play for both Australia and the country of his birth. He moved to Australia as a child and has grown up through the Australian structure.
Koshari Korner CMRC
Koshari Korner won the Multicultural Business Award on 16 May 2018 from the Community Migrant Resource Centre (CMRC) The award was given in recognition for their outstanding success, passion and dedication to the growth of their business. “We were honoured to receive this award last week at the Multicultural Business Awards. What a ride it has been since we started the Koshari Korner almost two years ago! We thank all of you for your ongoing support” ISSUE 151 / JUNE 2018
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UMMAH 27 - 30
JUNE 2018 / ISSUE 151
EDUCATION 31 - 33
BUSINESS 34 - 35
#SOCIAL
SOCIAL 36 - 39
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