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AUSTRALASIAN MUSLIM TIMES
www.amust.com.au ISSUE # 193
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Multicultural News & Views
DECEMBER 2021; JAMAADIYUL OULAA 1443 /
Ahmed Hassan breaks down the Muslim monolith NEWS PAGE 2
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The contradictions between two Americas
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Workshop: The Power of Diverse Voices COMMUNITY PAGE 9
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Plan your marriage before your wedding LIFESTYLE PAGE 13
Abla Kadous: NSW Senior Australian of the Year 2022 Mrs Abla Kadous, President of IWWA, receiving her NSW Senior Australian of the Year 2022 award from Mr Dominic Perrottet, NSW Premier.
Zia Ahmad The President of the Islamic Women’s Welfare Association, Mrs Abla Kadous is the NSW State recipient of the Senior Australian of the year 2022 award announced on Monday 15 November 2021 at The Australian of the Year Awards held at Sydney’s Luna Park in NSW. Earlier this year she won the SBS Lifetime Community Service Medal in March 2021 at Sydney’s International Convention Centre in recognition of the Muslim veteran leader’s services for the community in general and women in particular spanning for more than 35 years. After moving to Australia from Egypt, Abla Kadous, now 72 helped set up the country’s first welfare service for Muslim women – all while raising five children. One of Abla’s greatest achievements, was the establishment in 2000 of the Islamic Women’s Welfare Association (IWWA), a not for profit organisation of which she is President. The organisation helps Muslim women feel welcome and participate in their communities. It offers anti-discrimination forums, school-readiness programs, youth camps, cooking classes and events. It also provides food and other essentials to people in need. Abla currently manages over 50 staff members and volunteers. IWWA has close to 2000 members from over 50 different na-
tionalities and the welfare of the members has always been Abla’s focus. She has won a number of awards in the
past including the recognition as Westfield Local Hero 2020, named NSW Senior Volunteer of the Year in 2019 and received
the Muslim Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017 for over 25 years of service to the Muslim Community.
Faith groups welcome Sydney Statement on introduction of Religious Anti-Palestinianism Discrimination Bill Australian PM Scott Morrison presenting the Religious Discrimination Bill at the Federal Parliament in Canberra, ACT on Thursday 25 November 2021.
Zia Ahmad The Prime Minister Scott Morrison finally introduced the long awaited Religious Discrimination Bill into the Federal Parliament on Thursday 25 November describing it to create “bigger space for everyone in our national lives to be themselves, who they believe, what they be-
lieve, free of discrimination, coercion and judgment.” Earlier on Friday 19 November, the Australian National Imams Council, the Executive Council of Australian Jewry and various Christian and faith organisations and schools jointly released a statement acknowledging the extensive consultation by the government before the bill was presented. continued on page 3
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Shaoquett Moselmane MLC The Sydney Statement on Anti-Palestinianism was released by Australian advocates for Palestine from diverse backgrounds in response to the incessant
violations by Israel, a colonialist settler State, of the Palestinian people’s human, political, economic and national rights under international law, including their right to self-determination and nationhood. continued on page 11
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NEWS Ahmed Hassan breaks down the Muslim monolith NEWS 1-3
Mobinah Ahmad Ahmed Hassan, Co-founder and Executive Director of Youth Activating Youth was announced as the Young Australian of the Year 2022 in Victoria on Wednesday 10 November 2021. The 25 year old Australian, of Somali and Eritrean heritage, reflects with AMUST on the significance of this award, and the representation it has to the wider multicultural community. “This award reflects a proud moment for the whole Muslim, Somali and Eritrean communities. Having more diversity in the Islamic arena is incredibly important, we must have more representation on many different platforms, organisations, committees to make sure that every community is represented well,” said Ahmad Hassan. Ahmed co-founded the not-for-profit organisation in 2014 at the age of 18. “I started Youth Activating Youth to help
Ahmed Hassan speaks in July 2020 in response to negative comments in the media regarding the Sudanese Community. Photo: Darrian Traynor
the most vulnerable young people and provide them with opportunities in employment and education. We have created leadership programs to empower our youth and give them the skills and confidence to be leaders. This award comes with recognition and many opportunities and I’d like to use that for the betterment of the community inshallah,” he said. Often times when it comes to Muslims speaking in the Media, they are mostly seniors and look of a similar heritage. We need more diverse representation not just in cultural heritage, but also age and gender. “It’s incredibly important to listen to our youth. They have a perspective that other people don’t have. The youth offer a unique perspective which is important because they are our future and we look forward to them leading the community. We need to provide the right platforms and foundation for them to succeed,” Ahmed said. There needs to be positive role models for future generations that are not far removed with age. Working amongst youth, Ahmed reflects on his 24 year old journey and shares with us a principle he lives by. “My message to others is consistency. Be committed and dedicated through being consistent. Consistency leads to success, it’s the only way through achieving your goals. Following through with what you set out to do is so important,” Ahmed said. “I have so many people that are mentors and role models that have done great work in different fields: business, sport, arts, leadership. Mentors have a positive impact as they offer guidance and support and assistance where needed. My mentors have been good sounding boards to go to when I need to be heard out and advised,” he said. See Ahmed’s profile on the Youth Activating Youth website. “In five years, I see myself in the same position inshallah and I am excited to see Youth Activating Youth being bigger and better in
time as we grow and provide more support to the community. I would hope to be a better person and a better leader to encourage more people in the community to do more and achieve great things,” said Ahmed. Ahmed is an advocate for Melbourne’s disadvantaged multicultural communities, many of whom were vulnerable to the city’s second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ahmed spoke to ABC News sharing his experience of suffering from the Coronavirus. (20 July 2020, ABC News). Following this, Ahmed received online backlash and hate, when he got COVID and spread awareness for the virus. (The Age, 15 November 2020). Ahmad is a Western Bulldogs Community Foundation board member. On receiving the nomination, the General Manager of Community & Government Relations, Kashif Bouns said “We are extremely proud of (…) Ahmed, and are extremely lucky to have such high-quality people on our WBCF board,” (Western Bulldogs, 27 October 2021). He appeared on Nine News, to showcase the Youth Activating Youth employment program to help disadvantaged Melbournians reconnect with the workforce. “Australia needs to see what
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diversifying the workforce looks like and migrant communities have a lot to offer, they’re very resilient and reliable” said Ahmed. (Nine News) He has appeared on Channel’s Ten: The Project discussing the coronavirus pandemic and how it has hit Australia’s migrant communities particularly hard, and thousands are struggling to make ends meet. Ahmed Hassan, as a young support worker went above and beyond to ensure the very survival of the vulnerable people he’s working with. “You’re not going to get a day off, especially in the pandemic,” said Ahmed. Ahmad Hassan appeared on Q&A on 24 August 2020 for “Generation COVID” after testing positive for COVID and recovered. As a fun question, I asked Ahmed for his favourite chocolate bar. “You’re talking to a diabetic! I do like Snickers,” he said. Follow Ahmed Hassan on LinkedIn, Twitter & Instagram.
It’s incredibly important to listen to our youth. They have a perspective that other people don’t have.
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Ahmed Hassan, Victoria’s Young Australian of the Year 2022.
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ISSUE 193 / DECEMBER 2021
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AMUST
Muslims in NSW denied protection against hate Rita Jabri-Markwell From across Australia, Muslim leaders have written to the NSW Premier, Dominic Perrottet to record their disappointment that the NSW Liberal Party voted down the Anti-Discrimination (Religious Vilification) Bill on Friday 12 November 2021. The Bill would have given equal protections to NSW Muslims from vilification and hate campaigns. The Labor Party put the Bill forward, and the Greens supported it. The vote was lost by 4 votes. All Together Now, an Australian Anti-Racism organisation, along with Muslim Women Australia, Australian Muslim Women’s Centre for Human Rights and Australian Muslim Advocacy Network, joined the Islamic Councils in Victoria, Queensland, and Islamic Societies in South Australia, Toowoomba and Darra in the statement of support for NSW Muslims. Grassroots community advocates also signed the letter. The letter to the NSW Premier dated Thursday 18 November opened with, “The atrocity of the Christchurch terror attack continues to reverberate in the Australian Muslim community. From any perspective, the scale of
NSW Premier, Dominic Perrottet. the atrocity was unprecedented in Australian or New Zealand history in the loss of life and how those lives were taken. The terrorist was
Faith groups welcome introduction of Religious Discrimination Bill discrimination based on many other attribContinued from page 1 The Statement read, “Faith leaders would utes. For the Australian Muslim community welcome the introduction of substantive (among other minority faith communities), this is all the more critprotections for people ical in an environment of faith against faithWhat is the Religious of increasing anti-Musbased discrimination. Discrimination Bill 2021 lim hatred and a proSuch protections are liferation of right wing needed because federThe Religious Discrimination and white supremacy ally there is at present little if any legislative Bill, and associated legislation, will ideology,” Bilal said. ensure Australians are protected “This bill is a proprotection against discrimination directed at from discrimination on the basis of tection from the few religious belief or activity – just as who seek to margina person based on their religious identity and they are protected from discrimi- alise and coerce and nation on the basis of age, sex, silence people of faith belief, and there are because they do not inconsistencies in the race and disability. The legislative package impleshare the same view of manner in which States and Territories have ments key recommendations from the world,” Mr Morrithe Report of the Religious Freeson said. addressed the issue, if He further exat all. This is in con- dom Review to protect religious freedom in Australia and comprisplained,“A Sikh should trast to the existence not be discriminated of Federal legislation es of: which protects against • the Religious Discrimination Bill, against for because of which prohibits discrimination the turban they wear discrimination based on the ground of religious belief nor a Maronite because on certain other attribor activity and creates the office of the cross around utes.” of the Religious Discrimination their neck, nor a MusThe PM said that Commissioner in the Australian lim employee who the bill would provide Human Rights Commission; keeps that prayer mat protection for the first • the Religious Discrimination in the bottom drawer time at a national level, (Consequential Amendments) at the desk at work, overcoming inconsistBill, which amends Common- nor a Hindu couple encies in laws across wealth legislation to reflect the who (are) seeking to Australia and filling changes in the Religious Dis- rent a property, nor as gaps in NSW and SA crimination Bill; and Jewish school seeking where there are no religious discrimination • the Human Rights Legislation to employ someone of Amendment Bill, which will protheir faith if that faith is protections. vide certainty to charities, reli- their preference and the According to the gious educational institutions, publicly stated policy ANIC spokesperson, and the community by clarifying of their school.” Bilal Rauf, “At a Comambiguities in the Charities Act The bill recognises monwealth and NSW 2013 and the Marriage Act 1961, that religious bodies, level, there is generally and inserts or updates objects religious schools must no protection against clauses into the other Common- be free to uphold the religious discriminawealth discrimination laws to tenets of their faith, tion. As a consequence, recognise the indivisibility and and the ethos that many people of faith universality of human rights, makes this school, a who are subjected to their equal status, and the prin- community and is a discrimination based ciple that every person is free recognition of the sacon their religious belief and equal in dignity and rights. rifices parents make to and practices have liteducate their children tle to no legal remedy. This includes in public places and workplac- in accordance with their values and beliefs, and the choices they have made for their chiles. “This Bill is significant in that it brings into dren’s education. The Statement can be accessed here: line protection against religious discriminahttps://tinyurl.com/mrypbxv3 tion with protection which already exists for DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 193
a young man from New South Wales.” “An appropriate response would be to prevent such harm from happening again. Yet more than two years on, Muslims have no protection against discrimination or vilification in New South Wales.” The letter noted that Jews and Sikhs cannot lawfully be targeted by hate campaigns in NSW. However, the Courts have found Muslims are not covered – despite it being the original intention of the law. As previously reported by AMUST, Muslims are one of the most targeted communities by right-wing nationalists. The signatories have called upon the NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet to immediately introduce a Bill to extend the race-based protections against discrimination and vilification to cover the Muslim community. They would like it done in this term of Government. The Parliamentary debate showed that more direct engagement and discussion is needed with the Perrottet Government. Parliamentary Secretary to the Attorney General, Melanie Gibbons, provided the first response from the Government. Despite the shadow of Christchurch massacre, Gibbons couldn’t see the need for the
Bill. Government member for Riverstone, Kevin Conolly, member for Vaucluse, Gabrielle Upton, and member for Mulgoa, Tanya Davies all opposed the Bill, but supported religious freedom. Justin Clancy, member for Albury echoed the idea that NSW should wait until the Commonwealth legislated their religious discrimination bill – a recurrent theme. Government member for Hawkesbury, Robyn Preston, wanted more consultation with the whole community – a possibility if Premier Perrottet makes vilification protection part of a future NSW bill. It appears he is not currently motivated to do that. The message this vote can send to law enforcement, to the whole of society, is hate directed at Muslims is different to hate directed at racial minorities – it’s okay. Messages like these unravel so many other good efforts. It’s a nod from the most powerful to pernicious movements that says, it’s okay – keep doing what you’re doing. The Shadow Attorney General, Paul Lynch, introduced the Bill and explained its purpose. He made a good case for the Bill, and thanked Bilal Rauf from the NSW Muslim community for his advocacy behind the scenes. Local members with multicultural constituencies made impassioned speeches of support: Jodi McKay (Strathfield), Dr Hugh McDermott (Prospect), Jihad Dib (Lakemba), Joe McGirr (Wagga Wagga), Guy Zangari (Fairfield), Julia Finn (Granville), Tania Milhailuk (Bankstown), Lynda Voltz (Auburn), Edmond Atalla (Mt Druitt), Jamie Parker (Balmain). Tamara Smith and Jenny Leong spoke on behalf of the Greens. While they supported the Bill, they also preferred a major overhaul of NSW’s anti-discrimination laws. However, it appears progress will depend on Muslim community engagement beyond the Labor Party. See the Letter to Premier Perrottet here: https://tinyurl.com/yue7ruvj Rita Jabri-Markwell is a solicitor with Birchgrove Legal. Previously she has had a career advising Shadow and Government Ministers, NGOs, and employed as advisor to AMAN, a national body working to secure the psychological and physical safety of Muslims. She currently provides pro bono support and mentoring to AMAN legal volunteers.
COVID-19 pandemic: Omicron poses new threat to travel
Mohamed Ainullah Omicron, the newly designated Variant of Concern of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19 seems to have put a damper on the travel plans during this summer holidays. According to WHO, Omicron is potentially more contagious and has set off alarm bells for a few reasons, the number of mutations it carries, particularly in the binding domain of the protein spike which is where the virus attaches to human cells and also the target for most vaccines, it’s emergence coinciding with a 10-fold increase in cases in South Africa in under a week. South African Medical Association have reported a different pattern of symptoms and, importantly, a more mild disease, especially in the vaccinated. A strain that outcompetes Delta but causes more mild disease maybe the next step on our path to endemicity. The Omicron started spreading around the world from Sunday 28 November, and has
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now been detected so far in Australia, Belgium, Botswana, Britain, Denmark, Germany, Hong Kong, Israel, Italy, the Netherlands, France, Canada and South Africa. The Australian federal government has announced new quarantine rules for Australians who have been in South Africa and several other countries to enter two weeks’ supervised quarantine. Non-Australian citizens who’ve been to countries where Omicron has been detected cannot enter Australia for the time being. At the moment people flying in are required to show their vaccine certificate and a negative PCR test, but they will now be asked to list which countries they have been to in the past 14 days. Two international travellers in NSW quarantine have tested positive to the new Omicron Covid variant, becoming the first cases in Australia. Northern Territory health authorities were also running tests on an international arrival from South Africa who tested positive, and is now in quarantine.
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Say NO to the voluntary assisted dying bill 2021 Dr Wissam Soubra Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill 2021 The voluntary assisted dying bill (euthanasia) is currently been debated in the lower house of NSW Parliament and is expected to be debated in the upper house of NSW parliament when it resumes around February 2022. (1) The proposed bill The proposed bill will allow an adult with a terminal illness that will result in death within six or 12 months for a person with a neurological condition (2) to seek physician assistance with dying. If passed, the euthanasia bill, would allow limiting access to people with terminal illnesses.(3) My heart breaks as I recall when my late father was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, he was given 3-6 months to live, however ended surpassing their expectation, and lived for over 2 years with good quality of life, using available treatments. We would have been devastated to know that there would be limited access to treatment due to his medical condition. I ask, how many people would have urgent medical treatment Half “limited” or stopped1early? Page Ad_OL.pdf 25/10/2021 Health professional requirements
As a health professional, we have been trained to treat all people equally no matter what their age, gender, race or health maybe. The bill proposes that health professionals are required to submit a conscience objection every time they decline to provide euthanasia. Many health professionals feel the bill is not necessary, as it may subject the health professionals to unjust scrutiny (4) every time they decline to assist and perform physician assistance euthanasia. Sanctity of life Many people of all walks of life promote the importance of saving lives. Similarly, most if not all religions share the sanctity of saving a life. The Talmud states that, “Whoever destroys a soul, it is considered as if he destroyed an entire world. And whoever saves a life, it is considered as if he saved an entire world”. (5) While the Quran states that “whoever saves one life it is as if they have saved humanity ” (6)
Unsuccessful euthanasia There had been numerous reported cases overseas, where the dosage wasn’t enough and the patient endured significantly more pain and suffering. The bill stipulates that where a patient has “decided to self-administer a voluntary assisted dying substance and has not revoked the decision, the patient is authorised to receive, possess, prepare and self-administer a dose of a voluntary assist12:55 PM ed dying substance that is sufficient to cause death” (7)
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Sign the petition Call to action I urge the broader community to voice their concerns directly to their local NSW member of parliament. Our aim is to help people heal, rather than help them die. Sign the petition: https://tinyurl.com/txwvc5kv We seek a bipartisan support as together, we can make a difference. References: 1.https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/bills/ Pages/bill-details.aspx?pk=3891 2.https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp. abc.net.au/article/100567598 3.https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/nov/12/ voluntary-assisted-dying-perrottet-speaksof-sick-grandmother-as-he-opposes-nsw-bill 4.https://www.sydneycatholic.org/ act-now-on-euthanasia/ 5. Mishnah Sanhedrin 4:5; Yerushalmi Talmud 4:9 6. Quran 5:32
7. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://legislation. nsw.gov.au/view/pdf/bill/34942853-3316-4 064-a4a8-df13aa0512eb&ved=2ahUKEwjkltOKh6v0AhXoyzgGHVjHDRUQFnoECAkQAQ&usg=AOvVaw0QbduP5WSFVL7LDM8hfSgN Dr Wissam Soubra’s love for academia enabled him to start teaching around five years ago at the university of technology Sydney. His has extensive experience working in primary health care as a Podiatrist. Dr Soubra has over 12 years’ experience providing accessible and equitable health care to marginalised populations, including patients with high risk conditions. An award winning, with extensive experience in biomechanics of the lower limb, this has enabled Dr Soubra to work with a great team of professionals and make a revolutionary change in how people think of Podiatric treatment and how they can make significant contributions to many lives around the globe.
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ISSUE 193 / DECEMBER 2021
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The contradictions between two Americas
On Wednesday 24 November 2021 three to excel to the top irrespective of your ethnicwhite males were found to be guilty of ity, race, religion, colour or nationality. the murder of a black man, Ahmaud I remember sharing my thoughts of admiraArbery while jogging in Georgia USA, tion for the US political system with my uniby a jury made up of one black and 11 versity colleagues at the Presidential elections white members. towards the end of 2008 that Barack Conspiracy theories, that the Obama won inspite of being the son defence team had manipulated of a an African Muslim, with his the system to select an overmiddle name Hussein, while the whelmingly white jury in US was still engaged in ‘War order to ensure the acquittal on Terror’. Zia Ahmad of the three white men were But then again I was highfinally put to rest. ly disappointed when Donald Assalamu This episode renders the Trump won the US PresidenAlaikum US to be a place where rule tial election towards the end Greetings of law prevails and gives conof 2016 by the same electorate, fidence in the US justice system who I consider a racist, highly diof Peace to safeguard the rights of all its citvisive, filthy rich but a buffoon not izens. worthy of leading the most successful naAmerica with its representative political tion on earth. system and its various institutions with inWith its domestic record of inherent racism, built checks and balances and being the most long time belligerent but failing foreign poladvanced, powerful and successful coun- icy, war mongering record from the Vietnam try is highly admired by all throughout the war to the so called war on terror resulting in world. the destruction of so many countries in the There is no doubt that the US still inspires Middle East and its unflinching support for an us with the best universities with excellence apartheid settler state of Israel, America has in higher education and leading research, its demonstrated itself as being a place of contramega industrial infrastructure, opportunities dictions.
AMUST ISSUE # 193 FRIDAY 3 DECEMBER 2021 27 RABI’UL AAKHIR 1443 News
- Contradictions between two Americas - Freedom anti-vaxx protests - Capitalism will need to change
Re: When women’s rights are abused, society falters
Leaders have great responsibility whether home or outside and you have to answer for your position. SO if Muslim men can not manage, or be JUST in their homes and family how can they get the leadership of the world by GOD ALMIGHTY. Tahera Chaudhary
Re: Israel’s latest move to silence Palestinians condemned
Its typical of Israel, one of the world’s most murderous terrorist organisations, branding the targets of its crimes against humanity as terrorists. Gary Dargan
Re: Being part of an Australian skin care campaign
Love hijabis making us proud! Mashallah!!! Ami
Re: Prophet’s advice on pandemic and lockdowns
The greatest shock I received so far during this pandemic was the extent to which the most backward voices in the community, covid deniers, anti-vaxxers and natural immunity is enough proclaimers, was that many imams, religious leaders ‘so-called,’ bowed to them or were intimidated by them. That they are a tiny part of the population is evidenced by the rapid take up of vaccinations in the Muslim community once they became available, but even now there are still ignorant voices braying. DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 193
To save people, especially children against Covid-19 contamination and for treatment of sick people, make sure the plasma level of Vit D is high enough and adequate = or above 40 ng/ml , and recommend people to consume Green Coffee bean powder by pouring boiling water over the coffee parts and letting them steep for a few minutes (15-20 min/ without boiling), then strained. 200-400 cc per day is recommended. Dr Mohammad Reza Naghii PhD in Nutririon, Iran
Re: Muslims as part of the underclass?
I am wondering that, assuming Unemployment figures include men and women, a more nuanced approach may reveal a better understanding of the data. Numbers may be influenced by Islam encouraging women to stay in the home. Many women may have unreported part time work ,or businesses on the side, that may also be a factor. The family benefits welfare may also encourage women not to participate in the workforce and spend quality time raising their children. The pursuit or non-pursuit of Riba mortgages may be a factor. Mortgages lock famiilies into double income and fulltime childcare, whereas renting may aallow the wife to stay at home. Sharif Condon
Re: Muslims in NSW denied protection against hate
The NSW Government’s rejection shows they are out of touch with racial and religious vilification, and community. My first real touch with Ismalaphobia was during the Cronulla Riots when then Premier Iemma was very concerned with attacks on Muslims and it still continues today. Do they want to support a fair Australia or continue to avoid being a cross-cultural nation where all are equal and difference is valued and re-
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Community - AMUST Writer’s Workshop - Sakinah for seniors is back
Australia
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- Middle-Eastern bazaar raises the bar - Sydney Statement: Anti-Palestinianism
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- Plan your marriage before wedding - Documentary: Lebanon’s reckoning
Ummah
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- T20 World Cup: Australia wins - 10th All India Business Summit
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- Islam: Mercy and forgiveness - From hobbies to life skills
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Ahmaud Arbery.
- Islamic Finance 101 - Must travel quiz
Thankfully many mosques and individu- spected as diversity is best for the present Re: Webinar on Islamic ethical al imams took a leading role in advocating and the future? deliberation on vaccination
Re: Children & COVID-19: Advice on vaccination
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Readers comments vaccination and facilitating vaccinations with pop-up centres. They saved our reputation from being linked to the Craig Kelly school of nonthought. Bilal Cleland
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- Abla Kadous: Senior of the Year - Ahmed Hassan: Youth of the Year - Omicron poses new threat to travel
EDITORIAL
Our Muslim doctors and health professionals took a very positive role in creating awareness of the need for vaccination. Too many of our community members have ended up in ICUs and on ventilators through vaccination reluctance, much of it fed by social media nonsense. Some of our religious leaders also played a supportive role but unfortunately conspiracy theories were also spread by some who should know better. It was certainly an eye-opener to see how many can be intimidated by loud ignorant voices. Bilal Cleland
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James MEIN AM
The day Muslim’s unite themselves... from the next day Non-Muslim’s will stop denying Muslims rights.... Mohammed K
Re: Changes to Equal Opportunity Act targets religious institutions
What are the limits of the allowable discrimination? Would it be permissible for a religious institution like a school to employ only staff of that religious faith? If the institution is of one particular sect of that faith could they exclude staff of other sects? Would it be permissible for a Muslim school to insist on male staff having a beard -- and not only that determining the type of beard? Would it be possible to discriminate against women taking up leadership positions based on some interpretations of religious teachings? Fadlullah W
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Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in articles, and Letters to the Editor, Website Comments are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Australasian Muslim Times.
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Editor-in-Chief: Zia Ahmad Managing Editor: Mobinah Ahmad Sub-Editor: Nilufer Kurtuldu Graphic Designer: Rubinah Ahmad Chief Adviser: Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad OAM Multimedia Journalist: Mehar Ahmad Multimedia Journalist: Faseeha Hashmi Columnist: Dr Abul Jalaluddin (Finance) Columnist: Bilal Cleland (Victoria) Columnist: Manarul Islam (ACT) Columnist: Dr Daud Batchelor (QLD) Columnist: Zahid Jamil (NSW) Columnist: Shahjahan Khan (QLD) Promotion: Dr Wali Bokhari Web Developer: rubinah.design Multimedia: iMoby Productions Printers: Spotpress Pty Ltd Distributers: Abul Fateh Siddiqui, Shujaat Siddiqui, Usaid Khalil, 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, Luqman Landy.
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Bill impacting Islamic schools in Victoria AMUST
Gulhan Eryegit Yoldas The Andrew’s Government in Victoria has rammed the Equal Opportunity (Religious Exceptions) Amendment Bill 2021 through the Legislative Assembly, and it’s now with the Legislative Council. The proposed amendments directly targets Islamic schools, and other faith-based schools, essentially removing their right to employ Muslim staff without the threat of Government intervention. If passed, the changes could be effective as early as mid-December this year. In the Government’s own words, the changes will affect the employment of ‘priests, ministers, rabbis, imams or other members of a religious order’ – going to the heart of faith communities. (1) This is another example of the blatant aggressive secular agenda the Andrews Government has been pursuing, determined to gradually reduce religious freedoms in Victoria. Islamic school communities are rightfully concerned that with time the Government’s legislation could lead to increasing secularisation of Islamic and other faith schools. Christian Schools Alliance has prepared a campaign website to focus on the Upper House Opposition and Crossbench MLCs which includes a template email at https:// valuedvoices.org.au/viceo/ It’s important that Australian Muslims are vocal in raising their concerns.
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The Bill is presented as being about inclusion and equality, designed to afford greater protections for LGBTIQ students, teachers and staff. However the Bill is also making religious belief, and the right to live out those beliefs, very much subservient to the rights of others, who don’t share those beliefs. This isn’t equality. Parents should have the right to send their children to faith based schools where the staff, their teachers, their peers and the overall learning environment is aligned with the same Islamic ethos, values and beliefs, the observances and religious practices the child has in their home. Muslim students are also free from religious discrimination in Islamic schools where there is no threat of Islamophobia. Faith schools allow children to grow with a sense of belonging and participate more fully and more confidently in society. The Bill removes faith based schools from being able to continue offering a learning environment aligned with their religious ethos. Another area of concern is how The Bill
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impacts Islamic schools in running programs for the school community to increase participation of Muslim women and girls in sport and active recreation. We’re very fortunate that most Islamic schools in Victoria now collaborate with local councils and local sports clubs to run programs where Muslim women and girls from the school community feel safe and welcome to participate in sport and recreation in a way that aligns with their religious observances, without discrimination. Through these school programs Australian Muslim mums and girls are able to participate in ladies only golf sessions, ladies football, girls soccer, girls basketball, Ladies only Pilates and women’s only swimming sessions held in a select number of pools in high Muslim demographic regions, one day a week. These are significant milestones towards improving the overall health of communities in highly diverse postcodes. It’s important that Islamic schools are able to continue running these programs, de-
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signed for Muslim women and girls, without the fear of Government intervention. The final opportunity to raise your concerns is now. The Bill is with the Legislative Council, Upper House and will be considered by the Legislative Council in the last sitting week of the year, 30 November – 2 December 2021. Islamic schools and organisations are strongly encouraged to contact opposition and crossbench MLCs to object to this blatant attack on the religious freedom and to be able to continue operating as Islamic schools and organisations in Victoria. https://valuedvoices.org.au/viceo/ Gulhan Eryegit Yoldas is the president of Whittlesea Interfaith Network and Head of Community Engagement at Al Siraat College. Gulhan has four published books and a robust history of advocacy for gambling industry reform, Interfaith engagement, Muslim female leaders and mentoring young people to be spokespeople for their community.
ISSUE 193 / DECEMBER 2021
UMMAH 16 - 17
EDUCATION 18 - 19
BUSINESS 20
BOOMERANG
SOCIAL 21 - 23
The freedom anti-vaxx protests and conspiracy cults Bilal Cleland
In Melbourne over several days “freedom” protesters carried nooses and a mobile gallows to the front of parliament house and one protester said she looked forward to seeing Dan Andrews “dance on the end of a rope.” Anti-terror detectives charged two men on Thursday 18 November with incitement over threats to the Premier and MPs. Michelle Pini noted of the protest movement, “Chief dog-whistlers cheerleading the fray” included members of the Victorian Liberal Opposition. [Independent Australia, 18 November 2021] Saturday 20 November saw anti-vaccination, anti-emergency powers demonstrations in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Hobart, Perth and Brisbane. PRGuy tweeted: As many as 10,000 protesters have descended on Melbourne today to protest a range of issues including Satanic Ritual Abuse, medical apartheid, medical experiments, imaginary dictators, hoax pandemics, etc. Signs were predominantly QAnon-themed. In Brisbane, mining billionaire Clive Palmer, main backer of the UAP and Craig Kelly, said at the rally he’d rather “go out of business” than listen to vaccine advice from Queensland’s premier – who he called “Palachook.” [Brisbane Times, 20 November 2021] The anti-vaccine protests were already ex-
treme enough in Western Australia for the premier to close his electorate office, due to threats of rape against his staff and the bombing of his office. [Perth Now, 17 November 2021] The decline of the Liberal party from its traditional conservatism into a supporter of radical reactionary politics in this protest movement is dangerous. The weak statement of the Prime Minister created great concern. “Scott Morrison undermines the collective efforts of mainstream Australia by cosying up to extremists making violent threats with dangerous consequences.” [Jim Chalmers on Insiders, 21 November 2021]
Terrorism is a real danger A terrorist act in our law is an act, or a threat, that intends to coerce or influence the public or any government by intimidation to advance a political, religious or ideological cause and causes, amongst other examples, death, serious harm or danger to a person. The Christchurch Massacre is an example. The annual threat assessment 2021 by ASIO stated that ideological extremism takes up some 40% of its current caseload. QAnon is part of that threat: “It has since [2017] amassed millions of supporters, a small portion of whom have been motivated to conduct QAnon-inspired violence, leading the FBI to label it a domestic terrorism threat in 2019.” [Examining Extremism: QAnon Center for Strategic and International Studies USA, 10 June 2021] Not all those taking part are QAnon. The wellness industry has contributed substantially to the numbers of protesters. However the BBC Anti-disinformation
Anti-vaccination protests.
Unit warned in 2020 that the anti-vaccination and the QAnon conspiracy theories are merging. It noted that these groups also have a money raising function. [BBC Anti-disinformation unit, 3 September 2020] Josh Roos, Deakin University, recalls that Victoria police warned a parliamentary inquiry into extremism: “online commentary on COVID-19 has provided a recruiting tool for right-wing extremist groups, linking those interested in alternative wellness, anti-vaccination and anti-authority conspiracy theories with white supremacist ideologies.” [Conversation, 21 September 2021] A valuable analysis is in “QAnon and On: A Short and Shocking History of Internet Conspiracy Cults,” by Van Badham.
Capitalism will need to change in order to arrest climate change Dr Daud Batchelor During 2020 due to Covid, global carbon emissions fell 6.4% temporarily. The UN estimates though, emissions need be cut 7.6% every year over ten years to prevent 1.5C global warming above pre-industrial levels. The recent UN/COP26 Glasgow Summit showed Australia hostage to misguided National Party politicians, when most Australians prefer to abandon their legacy of having the World’s highest carbon emissions per person and a huge ecological footprint. We are amongst Earth’s richest populations well able to act appropriately. The scale of environmental impacts (I) such as climate change, can be represented as a function of variables, Population (P), Technology (T) and Affluence/Consumption (A). PM Morrison wrongly focuses just on Technology to achieve net zero emissions while including technologies such as carbon capture and storage, which Andrew Forrest says fails ’19 out of 20 times.’ While population growth is below replacement level, I assure the Government there is no alternative to halt climate change except by reducing our excessive consumption levels. ANU scholar Samuel Alexander (2014) wrote: “We [consume resources of] oneand-a-half earths to sustain the existing global economy. Every year that this ‘ecological overshoot’ continues, the foundations of our existence are undermined. DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 193
Despite this, richest nations still seek to grow their economies without limit. Our growth-oriented civilization is deluded that there are no environmental limits to growth. This is the defining critical flaw in growth economics: the false assumption that economies across the globe can continue growing, while radically reducing environmental impacts to a sustainable level.” Greening capitalism is not enough. The necessary transition requires rich nations downscale radically their resource/energy demands. This realization calls for economic ‘Degrowth,’ meaning a phase of planned and equitable contractions, eventually reaching a steady-state economy (SSE) that operates within Earth’s biophysical limits. Degrowth would liberate us from the burden of pursuing material excess. We simply don’t need so much ‘stuff’ – certainly not at the cost of planetary health and personal well-being. Consumerism is a gross failure, a debilitating addiction bad for our souls. Degrowth, by contrast, involves embracing the ‘simpler way.’ “It is about creating an economy based on sufficiency, knowing how much is enough to live well, and discovering that enough is plenty.” Lifestyle implications of degrowth are far more radical than just “turning off lights, taking shorter showers, and recycling.” But this doesn’t mean we necessarily experience painful sacrifice. The needed revolution is a revolution in consciousness. Most basic needs can be met in simple low-impact ways, while maintaining a high life quality. Through democracy we’d organize our
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economies to ensure everyone’s basic needs are met. We’d reduce our working hours in the formal economy. We’d have less income, but more freedom. Thus in our simplicity, we’d be rich (ghani). We need to create new, post-capitalist structures and systems promoting a simpler life-style. Jason Hickel provided some solutions in “Less is More: How Degrowth will save the world:” 1. End planned obsolescence 2. Cut advertising [it’s hard to re-imagine the good life if we’re constantly bombarded with advertisements insisting ‘nice stuff’ is the key to happiness] 3. Shift from ownership to usership 4. End food waste 5. Scale down ecologically disastrous industries, e.g. fossil fuels, beef In 2014, I presented the talk “Reducing wasteful consumption by waste avoidance using self-improvement (tazkiyah) and contentment (qana’ah) approaches,” which differentiated ‘needs’ from ‘wants.’ It is telling that teachings from the Qur’an and Sunnah 1400 years ago are wholly relevant to solving today’s leading problems of unsustainable consumption of Earth’s resources and climate change. Muslim scholars stress the purifying values of restraining egos and physical/material desires while developing spiritual strength, resilience, and ‘treading lightly’ on Earth. 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.
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The theory has penetrated quite deeply into Australia. “A 2020 paper … revealed that, after the US, Britain and Canada, Australia was the fourth-largest producer of QAnon content worldwide. Australia created more QAnon content than Russia.” It has created “fusion paranoia in Australia, not only with anti-vax communities but also anti-lockdown protesters and anti-migration and antisemitic tropes as well as the community of anti-5G mobile phone tower activists.” [Guardian, 14 November 2021] Cam Wilson exposed one major source of the anti-vaxx agitation in Victoria. It involves a former family First leader and a property mogul. “What separates Janssen and Harris from some other anti-vaccine and anti-lockdown groups is their organisation: building big email lists, growing a social media following and touring the country — all while making money along the way.” [Crikey, 19 November 2021] There may also be votes to harvest from the 10% who resist vaccination against the virus, but if this comes at the cost of fomenting domestic terrorism, it is too high. Bilal Cleland is a keen reader, a prolific writer and a regular columnist of AMUST based in Melbourne.
Alpine meadow, herd of Cows and dwellings held on hilltop Fazlul Huq The alpine meadow is seen to have cover of green over the slanting face and the plain land held in front.As the herd of cows and bulls colored in red and brown, orange and gold, white and black are witnessed to graze in the meadow. As the waterhole shaped like the pond stays in readiness to provide for the cattle at the edge of the slanting face. While the dwellings varied in size and shape colored in grey and black are seen to stand on the hilltop. Dr Fazlul Huq is a retired academic and Editor-in-Chief Emanreserch Journal Of Angiotherapy. He is also the poet “Jujube” at Allpoetry.com with over 35,000 compositions.
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COMMUNITY
NEWS 1-3
BOOMERANG 4-7
COMMUNITY 8 - 10
AUSTRALIA 11 - 12
LIFESTYLE 13 - 15
EM P OWERM EN T T HROU G H FAIT H & K N OWLEDGE
Muslim Girls Grammar School is an exclusive all girls' school 2022 Enrolments now open for years 7, 8 & 9 We will encourage, inspire and empower our girls through faith and knowledge, to seek excellence in character and action. We are the school of choice for Muslim girls in Sydney, fostering a positive learning environment with a culture of faith, inclusiveness & empowerment.
Visit mggs.nsw.edu.au for more information or call 8111 5600
Empowerment through faith & knowledge Excellence in Education
Character Development
Service to Community
A personalised approach to securing excellence, stemming from a passionate belief that each individual is unique and capable of rising above any perceived limitations.
A passionate focus on a values-based education that instils honesty, integrity, compassion and mutual respect within all our girls.
A determination to develop outstanding citizens who are proud of, and contribute to, the social and economic prosperity of our country.
Islamic Education. Reimagined.
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AUSTRALASIAN MUSLIM TIMES
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ISSUE 193 / DECEMBER 2021
UMMAH 16 - 17
EDUCATION 18 - 19
BUSINESS 20
COMMUNITY
SOCIAL 21 - 23
AMUST Writer’s Workshop AMUST
The Power of Diverse Voices Mobinah Ahmad
Ms Mariam Veiszadeh.
Dr Catriona Bonfiglioli.
Mr Zia Ahmad.
Mr Mostafa Rachwani.
share their grievances and contribute towards building a peaceful and harmonious society.” “AMUST promotes multiculturalism, a global outlook, the concept of unity of mankind against racial, linguistic, national and religious prejudices. AMUST promotes dialogue, communication and meeting of people from different faiths, indigenous groups and ethnic communities. AMUST will seek out the truth and boldly raise awareness of injustice, corruption, persecution and abuse of power and wealth and promotes corrective action to build an equitable, fair and just society,” Zia Ahmad concluded. With an excellent foundation for understanding the deep values that AMUST is built upon, the next speaker Mobinah Ahmad, the Managing Editor of AMUST, talked about the importance of representation in AMUST across various cultures, belief systems, age groups, genders and topics. The news platform thrives as representing the diverse views across the Australian multicultural community. “So there’s two strategies AMUST has in terms of increasing representation. One is to make sure we AMUST is represented in the media landscape and also to make sure that AMUST represents the diverse community that we have,” Mobinah Ahmad said. Mobinah spoke about her role within the AMUST team that focuses on diversity and representation to share stories and inspire others to do good work and speak up. For people to even conceive that something is possible, it helps to have it in front of them. We want to be a platform of inspiration to be able to inspire people to do good work, inspire people to contribute their ideas and thoughts,” she said. Mobinah spoke about how it has been difficult in encouraging people to submit as they were shy or humble - and saw promotion as arrogance. But she explains how AMUST navigated this issue and encouraged more submissions. “Unfortunately, we struggle as a community with really opening up about our
“We as Muslims
need to be very confident about the dawah work that we’re doing to inspire others to show that we are making an impact in this world especially in Australia.
Ms Nilufer Kurtuldu.
DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 193
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Ms Mobinah Ahmad.
Ms Mehar Ahmad.
thoughts and feelings and even the good work that we do, being a bit shy about it,” she said. “If you intend to inspire others right to do the good work that you’re doing, then it’s not a sign of arrogance, right. We as Muslims need to be very confident about the dawah (invitation to Islam) work that we’re doing to inspire others to show that we are making an impact in this world especially in Australia. We need to counter a lot of the negative rhetoric about Muslims that exists,” Mobinah Ahmad concluded. Mobinah’s speech recognised the need for representation and inspired writers to share their thoughts. Dr Catriona Bonfiglioli, media studies academic, UTS, discussed how to develop writing skills to report community news by sharing insights from her 15 years of experience as a professional journalist. “Strengthen your capacity, define and check reliable information about learning and following a code of ethics, even if you do not belong to a professional association. Always keep learning, seek training and share your knowledge, keep writing and taking those photos audio and video because everything is very multimedia these days,” said Dr Catriona Bonfiglioli. She imparted advice and tips to emerging writers to encourage them to write more. One of those tips was having writing goals and joining a professional association for writers and journalists. “It is a good idea to join at least one professional association because the networking and the context and finding people to interview and getting opportunities to report, all of those things can come from belonging to various associations,” said Dr Catriona Bonfiglioli. Mostafa Rachwani, a journalist at The Guardian, shared his journey of getting into mainstream media and how to navigate the Australian media landscape. He advised how to use mainstream media to publish news stories and opinions relevant to our community. “It comes down to, honestly, defining what journalism is: Journalism ultimately is storytelling. It can be an extremely intimidating and competitive industry. It’s that way because of how influential it is, how important it is to everything really but also to politics of the land that we’re in an international politics and so on. Media and journalism is the platform on which politics essentially happens. It’s the way we communicate, what’s happening and why it’s happening. The media is used by almost every institution in Australia, and I’d say around the world as part of narrative building and agenda-pushing. Everybody has an agenda. So ultimately, it’s less so much a platform these days, and much more battlefield, where everybody’s scraping for time and attention.
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That kind of thing does miss what I believe is the most important and most powerful part of journalism: it is about storytelling. It is about sharing people’s stories and people’s experiences.” Mostafa Rachwani said. Mostafa talked about there being several opportunities for stories. “There are stories, all around you, and I think it’s extremely one of the most important and interesting parts of my journey has been to realise that I’m just completely used to that story. You know your local mannoush shop has been open for, you know, 30/40 years - that’s a story,” Mostafa said. Mostafa’s speech gave an insight to writers about how to find stories and encouraged them to be storytellers. Building from that, Mariam Veiszadeh, CEO of Media Diversity Australia, discussed the importance of diversity in the media. She highlighted the necessity to promote diverse views. Mariam inspired writers from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to contribute to the media landscape. “We want to ensure that when we are being discussed in the media, or any diverse minority is being discussed in the media that the representation is there, so we don’t have incidences where the vice president-elect is the first black woman, and there is no one that can speak to that point. We know that racism in the media is an issue, and we are hoping to overturn that,” said Mariam Veiszadeh, CEO of Media Diversity of Australia. The event also consisted of educating the writers on the AMUST Style Guide, presented by the Sub-Editor of AMUST, Nilufer Kurtuldu. She explained the AMUST Style Guide and the editing process and advised upon writing structure, writing tips and the AMUST writing conventions. Eesa Bokhari managed the AMUST Kahoot Quiz, which tested the writer’s knowledge of the AMUST Style Guide. The cash prizes were won by Manar Ahmad (First), Soukina Kassir (Second) and Dr Asrar Talukder (Third). President of Seena Inc, Mehar Ahmad, gave a lovely closing speech, reflecting on everyone’s presentations and gave the vote of thanks to the organisers, speakers and attendees. The workshop was inclusive to everyone and had Auslan Interpreters organised by Raian Hoblos from Deaf Muslim Australia, and live captioning. The recorded event is available on the AMUST TV Youtube Channel at https://youtu.be/i2OSVg6BO8Y
“... what I believe
is the most important and most powerful part of journalism: it is about storytelling. It is about sharing people’s stories and people’s experiences.
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AMUST held a highly successful Writers’ Workshop: The Power of Diverse Voices in the media on Sunday 14 November 2021 with an incredible array of speakers and many existing and emerging writers with over 130 registrations for the event. The three hour program included speeches and presentations, Q&A session, Introduction to AMUST Style Guide and a quiz Kahoot quiz competition where top three winners were awarded with cash prizes. The first 50 registered persons who attended the workshop received Prezzee gift cards. With an esteemed panel of speakers who have a wealth of experience in writing, the AMUST Writer’s Workshop educated and inspired existing and emerging AMUST Writers in the multicultural community. The speakers gave insight into how writers can grow and contribute to mainstream and multicultural media platforms to have their voices and opinions heard. Speakers included Dr Catriona Bonfiglioli: Media studies academic, UTS, Mostafa Rachwani: Writer and journalist, The Guardian; Mariam Veiszadeh: CEO of Media Diversity Australia; Zia Ahmad: Award-winning journalist and Editor-in-Chief, AMUST and Mobinah Ahmad: Managing Editor, AMUST. As the founder of AMUST, Zia Ahmad provided an insightful look into the purpose behind AMUST and how it has grown exponentially due to popular demand. He talked about his vision and maintaining AMUST’s reputation by welcoming everyone and ensuring all views are balanced. “While mainstream media largely highlights only negative news of wars, conflicts, crimes, assaults, AMUST turned the idea of news on its’ head by providing the good news, positive aspects of community life and highlighting all the good works that people are doing. And believe me, there is much good work being done, which does not see the light of day in mainstream newspapers. AMUST is embarking on doing so. AMUST brings various sections of the community together by highlighting their achievements to bring about appreciation and cooperation between our multifaith and multicultural community,” Zia Ahmad said. He continued, “Sometimes only the conflicts are highlighted in the mainstream newspapers, but there’s a lot of cooperation and coordination and appreciation of our multicultural community, a lot of positive which goes on, which AMUST tries to highlight. Young people in our community are provided with the opportunity to express their ideas and opinions on current affairs,
Mobinah Ahmad is the NSW Executive Officer of The Australia Arab Chambers of Commerce & Industry (AACCI).
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BOOMERANG 4-7
COMMUNITY 8 - 10
AUSTRALIA 11 - 12
LIFESTYLE 13 - 15
Sakinah for seniors is back and running again AMUST
Faiza Ahmed
Ms Robina Yasmin speaking to the seniors on the Podium.
Ms Anoop speaking to the seniors via zoom.
Ms Samara discussing the wellbeing workshop with the seniors.
After four months, House of Sakinah hosted its most awaited event, Sakinah for seniors in its centre at Mount Druitt on Thursday 18 November 2021. We were once again happy to see the room fill with warm smiles, laughter and cheerful talk of great-tasting food. This event proved to be a great opportunity for the seniors to step outside of their house after lockdown and reconnect with friends. House of Sakinah is a not-for-profit women’s support centre which holds the Sakinah for seniors event every month but due to lockdown restrictions, it had been postponed. To run the program in a safe and friendly environment, we ensured to follow the NSW health and safety guidelines. The event manager for the seniors’ event, Ms Asima Anis, checked the COVID-19 vaccination certificates of both the volunteers and the elderly women attending. Health session for seniors Despite the social restrictions, we still managed to have a wonderful and joyful event. House of Sakinah invited some guest speakers to speak to the seniors about health and wellbeing, especially during COVID-19. We were excited to have Vice Chair, Ms Robina Yasmin, from Multicultural Disability Advocacy Association (MDAA). We value MDDA’s strong emphasis on promoting the rights of people with disability. With a focus on Culturally, Linguistically and Diverse (CALD) backgrounds. We look forward to collaborating with you in future projects. It was wonderful to have Dr Ahad Khan join the event. He gave an informative talk about how the elderly can better manage their health conditions. He also answered
some queries the seniors had regarding the COVID-19 vaccination, particularly the recent booster shots. We were enthralled to have Dr Ling Lim from Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) who joined via Zoom and answered some queries the seniors had about COVID-19. Ms Anoop Johar, WSLHD’s Bilingual Community Education (BCE) Program Officer, also joined via zoom and recommended some strategies how the seniors can deal with stress and social isolation.
Health and wellbeing workshop During the event, one of our dedicated volunteers, Ms Samara organised an interactive health and well-being workshop. The purpose of this exercise was to understand what well-being means to seniors. How they felt during the lockdown and what activities would they like to see at House of Sakinah. As an organisation, we wanted to place them in the centre and listen to their needs. Major highlight The main highlight of the event was when we celebrated the birthday of one our seniors. She regularly came to the monthly senior events and said that it gave her the time to socialise and connect with people in her community. May Allah accept all your heartfelt prayers and bless you with a healthy life, Aunty. Faiza Ahmed is currently studying a Bachelor of Science in Information technology with a major in Business Information Systems Management at the University of Technology, Sydney (UTS). She has experience in IT administration and digital marketing from a non-for-profit organisation called House of Sakinah, a women’s centre for domestic violence victims. She recently joined the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) this year and has become a part of the Accessible Telecoms Project. As a project assistant, she spends her time researching accessibility features on new equipment and devices.
Dr Ahad speaking to the seniors on the Podium.
Dr Lin talking to the seniors via zoom.
Celebrating birthday of House of Sakinah’s senior member.
Australia-wide prophetic biography competition Dr Faroque Amin A nationwide quiz competition was held on Saturday 6 November in Australia on the lives of the Prophet Muhammad (s), his companions and other early Muslim figures to celebrate the month of Rabiul Awwal that presents a special occasion for Muslims marking the birth of the Prophet. This Seerah (prophetic biography) quiz competition aimed to encourage young Muslims to learn about their ideals and predecessors and explore their own history. The online event was organised by the Al Tadhkirah Institute, an education institute under the community organisation Islamic Practice and Dawah Circle (IPDC) that runs Quran lessons in all the major Australian cities including Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide for the young Muslims. Al Tadhkirah believes that only knowledge can inspire a person to become pro-
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gressive, empathetic and civil, which are much-required attributes for a Muslim individual in this world. More than 500 youngsters have participated in this Australia-wide online quiz competition. The contestants were divided into four groups based on their age. From each group, the first, second, third and the next ten winners in the competition were awarded special prizes. A total of 52 contestants from all the groups received the prizes. The organising body has announced that top three winners will receive $300, $250 and $200 from each group. Moreover, the next 10 top winners will receive $50 each, and all participants will be provided with medals, certificates of participation and other gifts. Such an innovative activity organised by Al Tadhkirah Institute, spreading Islamic knowledge among the youngsters born and brought up in Australia, have been highly praised by Muslim families. Dr Faroque Amin works with Suprovat Sydney, a Bengali community newspaper published from Sydney, Australia.
AUSTRALASIAN MUSLIM TIMES
WWW.AMUST.COM.AU
ISSUE 193 / DECEMBER 2021
UMMAH 16 - 17
EDUCATION 18 - 19
BUSINESS 20
AUSTRALIA
SOCIAL 21 - 23
AMUST
The Middle Eastern Bazaar raises the bar Soukina Kassir
“It all started with a non-profit Facebook group I had started online for small businesses in Australia,” Nora Al-Sarray, entrepreneur and event planner, narrates to AMUST. From a virtual Facebook group to an annual, huge Bazaar that saw thousands of people flock to it per day, the power of social media proves itself once more in this era. “When I visited Turkey and Dubai and saw how successful the Bazaars, markets, and expositions were there, I thought to myself that this idea had to be translated into reality in Australia. Little did I know that my little Facebook Group would be translated into a real life Bazaar in Sydney where thousands of people would come to meet, greet, buy and sell,” Nora continues. The first Bazaar started in 2019 and year after year, attendees from Sydney, surrounding suburbs and other cities saw the Bazaar grow, evolve and comprise new events, new businesses and new features. This year’s 4th Bazar, which was held on the 9th and 10th of November at Eden Venues, Edensor Park, NSW, was the biggest to date and included a Fashion Runway for the first time. The Fashion Runway featured 13 businesses from the Middle Eastern community but which catered also to all other communities. It raised the bar for the Bazaar and promoted sales exponentially. “Organising both a Fashion Show and a Bazaar was a huge responsibility but Thank God, it was a success and went well”, Nora
Runway included women of all age groups, backgrounds, and body types. continues to explain. Mrs Al-Sarray also states that she made sure the runway included women of all backgrounds and represented all body types. “I made sure we did not just display one
Nora Al-Sarray, founder, planner and organiser of The Middle Eastern Bazaar age group, one body type, one nationality or one religion. Our runway was a melting pot of different amazing women- a simulation of the everyday women you would see walking in the streets, which are all beauti-
Thousands flock to The Middle Eastern Bazaar
ful in their own way,” Nora asserts. The event was sponsored by 81 businesses from the community in addition to financial sponsors. The program included an exposition of the 81 businesses, a Fashion Runway featuring 13 clothing and jewelry businesses, a raffle with great prizes, a competition for the best dressed, and last but not least, an offering of complimentary finger food. It all ran in accordance with the Governmental Policies of COVID-19. When asked what motivates businesses to participate, Nora states “Businesses sell three times more in The Bazaar than what they normally would do on other days. There are several businesses that actually sell out on the same day,” she tells AMUST with enthusiasm. “I think, now more than ever, it is important to support small businesses and give them hope. I see the Bazaar more than just a business venture. It is a space for connection and networking, for making new ties and new friends. Many people and businesses have met each other via the Bazaar and this in itself makes me happy and keeps me going with each Bazaar,” Nora says with a big smile of content. “What are your plans for the future?” we ask a keen, enthusiastic Nora. “I plan on making the Bazaar even bigger, perhaps collaborating with bigger businesses, working on the fashion shows and escalating the event to a national scale,” Nora explains with excitement. She then turns to me and adds, “Muhammad Ali once said, ‘If your dreams don’t scare you, they aren’t big enough’.” Soukina Kassir (Juelliet) is a mum of two, an image consultant and a former instructor (in Lebanon). Charity and non profit work has always been a passion of hers.
Sydney Statement on Anti-Palestinianism
DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 193
Adjournment speech by Shaoquett Moselmane delivered on Thursday 18 November 2021 in the Legislative Council at NSW Parliament, Sydney. Often the strongest supporters of Palestinians are reflective and liberal Jewish people. Peter Beinart, the editor of the US publication Jewish Currents, has written, “since pro-Israel organisations in the US have made it nearly impossible to discuss Israel-Palestine without addressing questions of anti-Jewish bigotry, Americans of all backgrounds have a responsibility to ask why even blatant expressions of anti-Palestinian bigotry pass almost unnoticed.” To counter rising anti-Palestinianism, there are eight principles. 1. Anti-Palestinianism exists when Palestinian people are denied rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and all other relevant instruments of international law, including United Nations [UN] resolutions.
2. The Palestinian people are entitled to their own State. The Palestinian State is consistent with international law, UN resolutions and over 30 years of international negotiations. This is reflected in the recognition of the State of Palestine by 139 member nations of the UN. Anti Palestinianism is flagrant when this right is undermined by settlements and acts of annexation, both of which are illegal under international law. 3. Palestinians who have committed to non-violent means to nationhood are entitled to all legitimate means of protest and advocacy. Palestinian leaders deserve respect and engagement, not isolation and boycott. 4. As part of the international community, the Palestinian people have an inalienable right to membership of international
“Often the strongest supporters of Palestinians are reflective and liberal Jewish people.
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Continued from page 1 Members of State and Federal parliaments would have recently received the Sydney Statement on Anti-Palestinianism, a document put together by the Arab Australian Federation in consultation with leading community figures and renowned Australian advocates for Palestine from diverse backgrounds. The Statement is in response to the incessant violations by Israel, a colonialist settler State, of the Palestinian people’s human, political, economic and national rights under international law, including their right to self-determination and nationhood. This Statement combatting Anti-Palestinianism quotes nonviolent means and international law and is based on “a just and lasting peace between the parties”. Former Foreign Minister Gareth Evans said of this Sydney Statement, “Its eight principles are all expressed with restraint, seem to me unarguable and are consistent with the ALP’s support for Palestinian statehood.” The statement is necessitated by decades of discrimination against and dehumanisation of the Palestinian people. Blatant prejudice is evident when Palestinians engaged in a peaceful pursuit of nationhood are depicted as terrorists, stigmatised on religious or ethnic grounds, or characterised as an inferior people. Anti-Palestinian prejudice can also target media, institutions, students and academics if they criticise Israel or sympathise with the Palestinian people. Anti-Palestinianism refers to a language and practice that directs discrimination, racism, hatred or violence against the Palestinian people. This abuse can be verbal, explicit or implied, or reflected in violence. At its worst it denies the existence of the Palestinian people, an erasure that facilitates the perpetuation of violence against them and the denial of their right to self-determination. Accusations of anti-Semitism should not be used to shield Israel from criticisms of its oppression of Palestinian people and its defiance of international law.
organisations in line with these organisations’ by-laws, including but not limited to the International Criminal Court, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, Interpol, the International Court of Justice and others. 5. Palestinians have the right, in accordance with international law, to engage in resistance against unlawful policies and practices of the Israeli occupation of Palestinian land. They are entitled to present to the world their case, supported by evidence and legal argument, that Israeli authorities have dispossessed, confined, forcibly separated, evicted and subjugated the Palestinian people. 6. Noting the UN’s recognition of the State of Israel in 1949 was conditional on Israel’s acceptance of the right of return— resolution 194, article 11—Palestinians are entitled to advocate their right of return as part of a just and lasting peace between the parties. 7. Palestinians have a right to their history, including their right to commemorate Nakba Day, and this must never, in any way, be denied to them. 8. International law brands collective punishment a war crime. When a Palestinian is arrested or convicted of an offence by Israeli authorities, there is no basis for Israel subjecting others to collective punishment. Adjournment speech by Shaoquett Moselmane delivered on Thursday 18 November 2021 in the Legislative Council at NSW Parliament, Sydney. Link to Full Sydney Statement on Anti-Palestinianism by AAF: www.arabfederation.org.au/Statement Shaoquett Chaher Moselmane is an Australian politician who has been a member of the New South Wales Legislative Council since 2009 and is a member of the parliamentary Australian Labor Party until suspended in June 2020. He was assistant president of the Legislative Council from May 2019 to April 2020.
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AUSTRALIA
NEWS 1-3
BOOMERANG 4-7
COMMUNITY 8 - 10
AUSTRALIA 11 - 12
LIFESTYLE 13 - 15
T20 World Cup: Australia steal the show from Pakistan
Zia Ahmad
Favourites and undefeated Pakistan during the five preliminary matches of the T20 World Cup cricket tournament suddenly lost to Australia in the semi-final held in Dubai on Thursday night 11 November. In spite of the three Pakistani batmen putting up a respectable total of 4/176 and taking early Australian wickets, Pakistan was beaten in the second last over after a drop catch of Matthew Wade who then hit three consecutive sixes for Australia to reach 5/177. Matthew Wade scored 41 off just 17 balls, hitting three sixes in a row off Pakistan star bowler Shaheen Afridi who took the first Australian wicket and has been bowling most
economically throughout the tournament. “The way we started in the first half, we got the total we targeted,” said Pakistan skipper Babar Azam after the game. “But we gave them too much of a chance at the end of the chase. If we had taken that catch [of Wade], it might have made the difference.” “The way Matthew Wade held his nerve was outstanding, that partnership with Marcus Stoinis [40 not out] was crucial,” Australia captain Aaron Finch said. Earlier Shadab Khan had decimated the Australian top batting line up with a figure of 4/26 claiming the wickets of Marsh, Smith, Warner and Maxwell in consecutive overs. Australia had been struggling at 5/96 despite a quick smart 49 from David Warner, before Wade and Marcus Stoinis’ put a lasting partnership with a flurry of high hitting to finish with a surprising yet magnificent victory. Australia and New Zealand, neither of
whom have won the T20 World Cup, will meet in the final in Dubai on Sunday 14 November local time.
Zia Ahmad is the Editor-in-Chief of the Australasian Muslim Times AMUST.
ICT. However, these programs do not really address the underlying issue of the values which drives the problems in the first place.
students appeared to understand their own emotional reactions and discern the morally relevant factors of a situation, such as not blaming others without knowing their circumstances. Empathy is associated with having a more lenient moral judgments of others. “If you are on technology you can go out of your limits (in the level of inappropriate social media postings) and think that was too far, but you can’t control it because of someone else doing it to you as well.” – Betty reported. Having sound character whilst using ICT, is managing ourselves based on the values of self-control and responsibility, and behaving morally towards others which is based on the values of altruism, justice and having respect. The Digital Moral Framework suggests that moral reasoning, emotions and behaviours play an important role in the moral use of ICT by young people. The two key abilities that stand out are; self-reflection of one’s values and behaviours and critical analysis of the values and practices that mediate the use of ICT. View more on www.drjohn.online
Values in the digital world I have been teaching Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in Australian high schools for over 20 years. I often have conversations with students who encounter challenges in the digital world. Their own attitudes, values and anti-social behaviours, and that of others, could be detrimental to their social engagement with others, their wellbeing and their moral development. I have also seen many wonderful examples of human morality and ethics held by young people. The challenge for young people, however, is two-sided. They need to understand how their values and behaviours affect their activities and others not only in the digital world, but also how the digital world affects the formation of their values and behaviours. ICT can influence them to do wrong things and feel that we can get away with it, without a need to engage their own sense of right and wrong. Young people refer to this as the ‘distance’ between others. ICT could allow us feel exempt from having and exerting moral responsibility. Young People are in the Driver’s Seat Schools attempt to address the misuse and risks associated with the use of ICTs by ‘controlling’ and ‘restricting’ students’ ICT usage. However, as their is open access to personal
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Wi-Fis this could only be achieved only in a limited way. As young people manage their own uses of ICT, individuals play the most significant role in determining their practices, and therefore, this is where the focus should be. This requires fostering moral values that compel self-reflection, critical evaluations of the use of ICT, as well as self-regulation and having a moral agency. Tensions between various approaches to cope with the unethical uses of ICT in schools and in society are difficult to resolve unless schools could define the important values and abilities that students need to have whilst using ICT. These then need to be fostered into their use and their lives.
Digital Natives – Can students do this on their own? Since young people generally know more about new media environments than most adults do, we must be cautious about constructing teens as natural experts of technology. This assumes that young people naturally know what to do and are able to acquire the abilities to participate ethically and effectively in the digital world on their own. Firstly, this assumes that young people actively reflect on their experiences and can thus articulate what they learn from their participation in the digital world. Secondly, it assumes that they can develop an ethical framework on their own, to help guide their participation. Cyber-Safety programs are the main and only proactive intervention strategies directed towards youth with respect to use of
AUSTRALASIAN MUSLIM TIMES
Digital Moral Framework “If we’re trying to tell someone to have good values, we’ve got to make sure we’ve got good values… If you’ve got values, stick to them.” – Betty (a 14-year-old student). A holistic digital moral framework is needed, which can support moral reasoning, emotions and behaviours – the three aspects of human morality. Integrity in the digital world is having moral expectation of oneself and living up to one’s moral values, based on the values of authenticity, accountability, honesty and trustworthiness. This chart represents the ranking of importance students placed on each of the moral issues they encountered in the digital world. “I am the same on the internet as I am in real life” “I don’t try to look better.” – A student reported. One definition of authenticity, whilst using ICT, is being who we truly are and being consistent in one’s self-presentation. Students often noted that authenticity was important for themselves and their peers, indicating the importance of being consistent in how they portrayed themselves online. “It was not fair to blame others without putting yourself in other people’s shoes.” – Another student reported. The heart is being empathetic towards others and following one’s conscience with respect to one’s actions. While using ICT, some
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“It was not fair
to blame others without putting yourself in other people’s shoes.
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John Bellavance
Dr John Bellavance has worked in the non-profit sector for 40 years. He has completed his PhD in 2018 at Monash University on the role of values in the use of Information Technologies. In Australia he is the national Vice-President of the Universal Peace Federation, which is an NGO in General Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. ISSUE 193 / DECEMBER 2021
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Plan your marriage before planning your wedding Princess R Lakshman You’ve met people who are preparing for their big day. Rarely do you meet people who are preparing for their actual marriage, a lifelong commitment to another human. Their focus usually is on the outfits, venue, catering, guest-list, gift registry, invitation cards, photography, and so on. People forget to ask the tough questions that later begin to frequently emerge in the marriage. This follows the usual regretful thought: I wish I had known this or that about him/her before I got married. It’s important to pause and question if you are spiritually, mentally and emotionally prepared for the days that would follow the few hours of the wedding day glitterati. The following strategies may help you and your future spouse become aware of the different facets of your commitment to each other in marriage. These strategies are for you both to do together in a halal and safe manner. • Meet with a professional counsellor, coach, or a spiritual guide, to openly dis-
cuss expectations you both have from each other in these areas: Love, Relationships, Career, Money, and Spiritual Practice. • Spend time with a mentor couple who has a solid marriage and can share their wisdom with you. • Have regular conversations to discuss these relevant topics: 1. Values – if your values are similar, you feel valued in the relationship. 2. Beliefs – if your beliefs are similar, there is less conflict. 3. Self-confidence – if there is a healthy level of self-confidence, there is no competition, rather everything becomes a collaboration. 4. Mental health – talk about anxiety and how you manage it. 5. Physical health – talk about exercise and how you can plan on incorporating that in your marriage. 6. Emotional health – talk about how you feel about the way anger, suspicion, and jealousy need to be displayed in your marriage. There is a healthy way of expressing these emotions that is constructive rather than destructive. 7. Spiritual health – talk about your Creator and share your inner-most thoughts about spirituality and how you practise Islam daily to be close to your Creator. 8. Trauma – being transparent about trau-
ma means that you will feel safe in the marriage and not feel anxious every time there may be a trigger. Your future partner will be able to understand why you may be acting out and support you through healing from trauma. It’s okay if you don’t wish to share specific details but at least tell your future partner if “something bad happened in childhood”. Falling in love with the person you are marrying is beautiful. Remember though that
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love is a verb and needs to be demonstrated through ways where you value each other, believe in each other, are collaborative in your daily life, enjoy optimal mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health, and respect each other’s trauma triggers, and help with each other’s healing. Princess R. Lakshman is a writer, speaker, qualified clinical nutritionist, life coach and a counsellor. She is based in Sydney, Australia.
Is it worth it to be A Muslim story on emotionally intelligent? mental health recovery Hena Jawaid Different cultures have pre-existing sets of rituals, expectations and behaviours, which affect the human mindset to a great extent. There are different attributes in every culture, both good and bad. However, here I would focus on some aspects of the Southeast Asian culture in particular, which has its major impact on society and its people. One can observe that emotional communication is constricted in these cultures, as emotions are not encouraged to be expressed in healthy ways, especially during difficult times. There is scarcity of role models available in society, who can teach emotional hygiene or or overall emotional awareness. Lack of knowledge regarding one’s emotional state causes shame, guilt and confusion amongst the community. The inability to gauge the intrinsic state of thought can further complicate matters for people, as it camouflages ones’ cognitive biases and therefore a person can be readily influenced from external factors. Cognitive biases are automatic templates of thoughts, which surface out as soon as we come across any conflicting or crisis situations. The a b s e n c e of realization r e garding ones emotiona l s t a t e also forces one to suffer i n silence, n o t to talk about mental health with anyone around them, and prevents them from seeking help from professionals. The understanding DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 193
regarding one’s mental state is crucial in order to deal with multifaceted relationships and issues in ones’ life. Amongst the male gender, cultures stimulate the notion of fake will power by prohibiting crying and by deeming this act as a sign of failure and weakness, which is like adding fuel to the fire. Anger and frustration can be relieved if a person can cry or talk about their challenging feelings and emotions. These cultures cease the doorway of catharsis, which traps toxic emotions experienced within one’s self. Language of expression is an empowering tool, which should be a part of the curriculum in early learning phases for every child. Emotional language and education, if started from an early age, could help impart control to ones’ self and teach them how to express and recognize their own internal turmoil in relation to events, thus, correspond accordingly. This is a very important aspect of emotional intelligence, which needs to be built and emphasized amongst the community, in order for one to excel in this world full of convoluted politics and technology. Hena Jawaid is a mental health professional having trained in Pakistan and US completing 5 years of medicine and then 4 years training in psychiatry. She has contributed to international and national newspapers, magazines and scientific journals on professional and community issues and spends many hours volunteering for various NGOs.
Denise Il I closed my eyes and tried to focus on my breathing. I was experiencing my first panic attack. The first time I noticed something wasn’t right, I was at my cousin’s house. There was the usual witty banter, laughing and catching up as each of us took turns to hold her newborn baby. My sister was delivering one of her hilarious anecdotes, so it was a blessing that all eyes were on her. As my heart started pounding and my stomach had tightened, I wondered whether I had eaten something bad. I tried to hide my shallow breathing while resisting the urge to run out of the room, or house altogether. Over the coming weeks, my symptoms progressively got worse. Shaking, a tightened stomach, light headedness, and uncontrollable diarrhea, was what I was experiencing frequently. It included the debilitating feeling of being out of control. Not being able to breathe became mentally synonymous accompanied with vivid thoughts of feeling stuck, nauseous, and thoughts of imminent death. Trying to block out surrounding sounds and people’s voices became impossible while trying to calm my body down at the same time. Before long, I couldn’t trust myself to drive, be a passenger in a car, or sit in a room full of people without needing to flee from the scene. I couldn’t see my friends, speak on the phone, or go to my parent’s house. I had even sat shaking in the foetal position as the postman continued to knock at the door for a signature. Everything had made me feel stuck. Anything that required focus had become a trigger for my anxiety. Even prayer caused anxiety as I had to stand in the same place for what seemed like an eternity. Then the feelings of guilt, shame and spiritual inadequacy eventually came in, leaving me feel worthless. I couldn’t talk
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about it to anyone, due to my fear of being judged by everyone around me. After years, I reached out to a friend who insisted I seek help through the National Zakat Foundation (NZF), in which I was connected to services through the Muslim community. Only then was I able to speak openly about my life and this condition’s affects. Looking back, I know these struggles were tests from Allah as He tests those He loves, and Alhamdulillah He made me strong enough to push through them. I realised that not only was I living through the hardship that comes with a mental illness like anxiety, but also how alone I had felt during that time. There are so many others within our community that continue suffering silently like I had, and perhaps knowing this would’ve made me brave enough to seek help sooner. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolarism or any other mental illness, know that help is there for those who seek it. Friends, family, and welcoming community organisations like NZF are always there to make things easier for us. People out there do care about you, and are more than happy to lend a helping hand, or an ear to listen. All we need to do is let them know. Based on an NZF client’s story. Learn more about NZF’s Smiling Minds program at www.nzf.org.au/program/smiling-minds or contact us on 1300663729. Denise Il is a writer at National Zakat Foundation Australia, and is based in Victoria.
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COMMUNITY 8 - 10
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Lebanon’s reckoning AMUST
New documentary premiering 1 Dec AMUST Media ‘ENOUGH! Lebanon’s Darkest Hour,’ the winner of the Movie That Matters Award at the 2021 Cannes Film Festival, and one that has received the Award for Excellence for Feature Documentary at IndieFEST, as well as officially being selected for the Cairo International Film Festival, will be launched in Australia on the Wednesday 1 December at Hoyts Entertainment Quarter in Sydney, Australia! A second premiere event will be held for this movie at the Event Cinemas in Parramatta on Thursday 2 December 2021. The Melbourne premiere will be held at The Jam Factory on Saturday 4 December. Other screenings are also scheduled around the country for the rest of December this year. The film is directed by a Lebanese-Australian filmmaker, Daizy Gedeon. It tackles many of Lebanon’s challenging issues that have caused it to erupt into violence and, only last month, to become involved in a regional, diplomatic crisis also.
Ms Gedeon’s access to some of the country’s most prominent political figures is unprecedented. Through incisive interviews with whistle-blowers and experts over the past 5 years, she offers damning evidence of state-level, criminal corruption throughout
the country. Featured interviews include Ex-Prime Minister Saad Hariri, MP Gebran Bassil, Samir Geagea, Mohammed Fneich and the much-maligned Governor of the Central Bank, Riad Salameh. The former Finance
Ministry Director General Alain Bifani and Thanassis Cabaniss, Senior Fellow and Director of The Century Foundation in New York, also share many revealing truths. Ms Gedeon has just returned from a fourmonth international festival circuit tour in Europe, Beirut and the US. Whilst overseas, she urged the 16-million-strong Lebanese diaspora to vote in next year’s elections, which could potentially make-or-break the future of the tiny Mediterranean country. Ms Gedeon says: “We need everyone to get out and vote…especially the expats.” The film was recently screened in Beirut to a group of ambassadors, hosted by the Australian Ambassador, Rebekah Grindlay. It also screened in Washington DC to a sell-out audience including members of US Government, World Bank and the IMF. The film was written and directed by Daizy Gedeon and produced by Patrick Rohr and Ronny Jon Paul Mouawad. Film: ‘ENOUGH! Lebanon’s Darkest Hour,’ View the trailer here: https://youtu.be/AqnQC1Lo2-c Screening details and tickets here: https://fan-force.com/films/enough/ Martyr’s Square in Beirut, Lebanon during the October Revolution in 2019.
Ms Gedeon interviewed ex-Prime Minister Saad Hariri while he was still in office on July 2018.
Spring
Understanding your hormonal seesaw for weight control
Dr Reginald Naulty
Razia Jawad
Blue grey clouds, fortresses in the sky, portentous, impressive, billowing up high, full of rain for the western plains where the rivers swing out around the brown lands beyond the towns, and on to another river, their destination. And the birds come down in flocks, the ducks paddle and frogs croak; the whole world rejoices, kangaroo, wallaby and bird voices, and humanity too, with all its devices. Dr Reginald Naulty, originally from Adelaide, has taught at Charles Sturt University and has been a prolific writer since 1972.
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A ‘mind’ is a terrible thing to waste and a ‘waist’ is a terrible thing to mind! Most women are told to exercise to get rid of their weight and to cut off many healthy nutrients, as dietitians recommend Atkin’s, Mediterranean, Keto, Portion and many other diet plans. This is actually bad advice to give. Exercise only plays a tiny percentage of our daily calorie burning. No doubt, diet plays an essential part to gain and weight loss, however ‘hormones’ are the true culprits behind ones’ weight gain. Most women constantly fight against their hormones. Or in other words, their hormones are in constant stress making their metabolism come to a standstill. Hormones are a chemical substance that act like a messenger molecule in the body. After being made in one part of the body, they travel to other parts of the body where they help control how cells and organs do their work. As an example insulin is a hormone that’s made by the beta cells in the pancreas. When it’s released into the blood, it regu-
AUSTRALASIAN MUSLIM TIMES
lates metabolism of glucose that is used as a source of energy. There are two primary hormones that drive the menstrual cycle are estrogen and progesterone. Sometimes Estrogen is more dominant… other times Progesterone is more dominant. For the first 15 days of the cycle, estrogen level is high. Calendar image days 1-14. In this phase, estrogen helps keep muscles tight and toned… Keeps your fat-storing hormones under control… and increases “feel good” chemicals in the brain… You’re basically in superwoman mode. On other days progesterone moves to the higher position, your metabolism shifts. Calendar image days 14-28. This is when those cravings can hijack the brain…Every bite of food adds an extra inch to the waistline. And your body becomes more sensitive to stress. The more extreme these shifts, the more severe the symptoms. That’s when bloating, breakouts, and those miserable cramps can take over the body. These constantly changing signals can make you feel unpredictable and unstable.
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You can think of your menstrual cycle a lot like a see-saw. A balanced See Saw. Imagine a little girl “A” in pink dress on one side. That’s estrogen. And another little girl “B” in a blue dress on the other side. That’s progesterone. In a healthy cycle, these two girls happily move up and down in a well-balanced routine. While In an unhealthy cylce, one will be disturbed, while the other will be stuck. Other hormones that effect ones’ weight are thyroid, insulin, leptin, ghrelin, cortisol, testosterone, melatonin and glucocorticoids. Recommendation: It is strongly recommended to all readers to regularly visit your gynecologist and endocrinologist before any weight management plan. Endocrinologists have the training to diagnose and treat hormone imbalances and solve problems by helping to restore the normal balance of hormones in ones’ body. Razia Jawad is the Certified Professional Manager in Human Diet and Nutrition and running a charity organisation as President at Karachi, Pakistan. ISSUE 193 / DECEMBER 2021
UMMAH 16 - 17
EDUCATION 18 - 19
BUSINESS 20
LIFESTYLE
SOCIAL 21 - 23
AMUST
Raian Hoblos: A unique success story AMUST Media Raian Hoblos is a fully Deaf Muslim ambassador. She delivers inspiring speeches in AUSLAN, using sign language. She is a good quality and skilled researcher and a strong advocate for women from a Lebanese Muslim background. Raian says, “I am so proud to be an AUSLAN interpreter for a non-Muslim Aussie girl named Katie Eales. It is my pleasure that for the first time, I am teaching her the Sign Language to translate English in to Arabic. She wears a Hijab before joining our zoom meeting with other Deaf Muslims from all over Australia. She is also the AUSLAN interpreter for a Muslim Lebanese woman named Yasmin Dandachi, who states that she is so proud to have two AUSLAN interpreters, which is so wonderful and exciting, and something different as an experience for her. Raian goes further and states, “It is my pleasure that someone from Melbourne named Sherine Mohamed is trying to introduce me with two famous sheikhs. May Allah Bless and reward her for this help.” Finally, for the first time ever, two renowned sheikhs, Alaa Eizcom and Belal Assad from Melbourne, have joined our Deaf Muslim group. Raian explains, “I am so happy to experience this amazing session, where you can have the answers to your questions answered in the live sessions, and be able to understand things easier. Previously, it was so hard and frustrating to find the relevant answers and
interpret them in the Sign Language. They are like a blessing to us, Allah (God) sent them at the right time to join us. It was a big need, and I wanted to welcome our sheikhs and thank them for accepting the invitation to join the session. InshAllah (God-willing), next time they will join us again, as our doors to zoom meetings are always open for them.” Raian advises, “I am a very skilled researcher who links international tourists from the Middle East. Recently, I met a deaf regional Sheikh and new a Sunni/Shia regional Muslims, who are deaf or have hearing difficulty, and their local sign language is hard to understand. However this isn’t hard for me, as they use facial expressions as a part of their sign language to express their own emotions or to describe the emotions of others, through the use of a range of emotions e.g., happiness, anger and sadness etc.” “I love to go overseas and visit different countries, visit Mosques to research the history about the Quran, meet regional Muslims and new deaf people, visit Halal restaurants, shop for beautiful hijabs and clothing, see Ramadan and Eid festivals, attend deaf international conferences, and help set up my business to support the deaf community, which is my dream,” Raian explains. “I was proud that I would be the first Muslim AUSLAN (Sign Language) interpreter for Arabic in NSW, and hoped it would inspire more Muslim Deaf groups in the future to share, grow, be beautiful, friendly, and always be positive, with a smile,” she says. Muslims believe that being disabled is a test from Allah in this life, and therefore it is seen as a blessing.
An online zoom event for Deaf Muslims organised by Deaf Muslim Australia.
Raian Hoblos, Deaf Muslim ambassador.
At the Deaf Muslim Australia page, Raian has organised events for Islamic centres, Mosques and Sheikhs. This has been amazingly organised by her using her vast experience. Interpreters for deaf Muslims provides interpreters for events, conferences, meetings, workshops, lectures, prayers, and at mosques. The Deaf Muslim Awareness Australia page on Facebook is a charitable organization which breaks down communication barriers that Deaf Muslims face when establishing and advocating their knowledge in Islam. Her goal is to make Islamic resources fully accessible to the Deaf community through a variety of services including: • Arrange for an AUSLAN interpreter to be present at local mosques for the translation of sermons and prayers. • Arrange for an AUSLAN interpreter to be present at festivals (e.g. Islamic workshops, Eid, Ramadan, Restaurant, Holy night celebrations), conferences, and heaps more. • Setting up Islamic classes with many interpreter services, to address the knowl-
edge and levels of Deaf people. • Raising awareness in the community about the challenges being faced by Deaf people. • Approaching organizers to make their events accessible to the Deaf. • Training interpreters on Islamic terms and signs so that they are able to interpret it in a religious way. • Interpreting the Quran. “I witnessed that we are in so much frustration, however I already see a positive change come about. I would say: “You can see a sense of belonging in this group. They’re also thinking, ‘is this too good to be true? But you can already see the happiness on their faces,” explains Raian. It has taken alot of time, however, good things come to those who wait. Finally, there is a religious organisation tackling the problems faced by the Muslim deaf community when it comes to learning about Islam. The Islamic Education and Community Centre are currently leading the way and changing all lives for the better.
I am a … human! Rabia Rasul
Identity. One word. Four syllables. What is it? For so long humans have questioned their identity and have sought to understand what the essence of their soul and mind are. They have used it as a tool to explore relationships to determine the core of society. What is the common thread that binds us together? For thousands of years, the answer has always been – faith and religion, a shared purpose in the supernatural deity that transcends the earth. While I think religion continues to be a source of stability that provides us with purpose, I think we need to also change our focus. The Australian census is due to be published in just over 6 months’ time. While it reveals many important issues like the condition of the economy and levels of unemployment, the most pressing concern is the growth of religious groups. The 2016 census revealed, that despite being an overwhelmingly Christian nation, no religion was the fastest-growing category, with only 30% of citizens identifying themselves as not believing in a particular faith. Recently, I attended an interfaith event, DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 193
where the discussion was centred around undertaking actions to create a more accepting and tolerant society. One of the speakers stated, that to build a more harmonious society, it was necessary to shift our identity from one that is based on religion to one that is founded on our status as Australians, or to take it one step further, our position as global citizens. While I am not suggesting that we forget about religion completely, as it still plays a significant role within society, there needs to be a shift in the foundation of our identity. Since the birth of organised religion, our conflicts and division have centred around our faith. These divisions have transcended our national borders and have been used as mechanisms to instigate and enable geopolitical conflict. Until this day, the manipulation of religion is still being used both politically and socially to ostracise communities and prevent them from accessing opportunities.
What binds us together, should not depend on whether we believe in a God or a supernatural being, rather, it should come down to our status as global citizens who want to impart positivity. While I am not naïve enough to believe that everyone believes in this cause and know there are some who remain indifferent to this view, I still believe that the large majority want to succeed and empower others to do the same. We all want to be accepted and respected for who we are, and while our faith plays a strong role in that, it shouldn’t form the basis of this belief. Our acceptance in society should not be conditional on our religious or spiritual affiliations. It should be contingent on us being humans who are worthy of respect and equality for that reason, and that reason alone. Identity. One word. Four syllables. What is it again? Rabia Rasul is a university student currently studying political science and law at Macquarie University.
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AUSTRALASIAN MUSLIM TIMES
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Indian Muslim diaspora needs to help Muslims in India AMUST
Dr Aslam Abdullah Scores of Muslim individuals and organizations abroad feel concerned about the deteriorating situation of Muslim community in India. Yet, not a day passes without the killing, lynching, looting, and discrimination against Muslim Indians. The perpetrators include Hindutva bigots shouting Jay Shri Ram outdoing each other in organizing violence and attacking Islam and its religious leaders. Yet, the police support the violent mobs, and the judiciary does not take effective action. Political leadership, by their silence, encourages the organised hooligans and endorses the continued tirage against Muslims. Rape, burning of religious places and holy books, lynching, looting are the common tactics hooligans use to intimidate Muslims. Their purpose is to drive Muslims away from their ancestral homes, occupy their homes, and turn their places of worship into temples. As is customary, Muslim Indians living abroad express shock, raise concerns, and donate to help the victims. During the last 40 years, Muslim Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) have donated over a billion dollars to serve their community in education, rehabilitation, and relief. Yet, they could not establish institutions to empower Muslims politically and economically. Muslim Indians do not have vibrant media, grassroots-based political organiza-
tions, financial consortiums to help young entrepreneurs, and a faith narrative that may inspire the younger generation to rise and claim their rights in a secular democracy. Muslims in India live in perpetual fear, not sure if their claim to their Indianness is valid in the country where they have lived for a thousand years. But, unfortunately, none of what Muslim NRI’s contribute, and Muslim Indians raise in funds helps Muslims regain their confidence in their ability to live as a dignified community within their homeland. The responsibility lies both on religious and modern educated elites. None of them invested in using the tools and the methods to empower their community comprehensively. The religious elites believe that Muslims would overcome their miseries by filling the masajid and accepting the seventh-century interpretation of the Quran and
Sunnah. The modern educated leadership argues that modern education would solve all their problems. Only a few realize that when a community forgets its reasons for existence and its sense of belonging to ideals that made it what it used to be in the past, it loses its self-respect and willingness to survive and face the hardship. Rather than solving its problems, it relies on others to save it from a slow death. It divides itself into factions on non-issues and focuses on negating each other. Each section ridicules the other and considers itself the only genuine voice of the faith and the community. Muslim NRI’s reason for their presence abroad is mainly for their education and intellectual satisfaction. They could have used these resources to provide pragmatic leadership to Muslim Indians through building institutions in India and informing the peo-
ple in their new countries about the Muslim situation in India. Yet on both fronts, they have failed miserably. The poverty level among Muslims in India is stagnant. The education has come mainly due to governmental efforts, with Muslim NRI’s little to contribute. In a country of 1.4 billion with over 200 million Muslim population, about 25,000 religious madrasas and some 300 modern educational institutions are not enough to make Muslims a vibrant community in India. NRI’s could pool their resources to strategise Muslim renaissance in India, and they could use their presence abroad to make people aware of Muslim Indian plight. Yet, the vision of their organization and leaders is myopic. Many can not see beyond their self-interests, or ethnicity, or region. The result is obvious. Despite spending billions of dollars, they are not better politically and economically as a community. Indian diaspora abroad need to think outside the box and boldly take action to protect their communities in India from the ordeal they have are going through. Otherwise, the efforts would be no more than running water in a sieve. Perhaps, it is time Muslim NRI’s who care for their community and have a vision for its empowerment reconnect and develop a strategy to uplift their beleaguered community. Dr Aslam Abdullah is a resident scholar at Islamicity.org. He is also the editor of the Muslim Observer published from Detroit, MI, USA. He is based in the USA and is a trustee of the American Federation of Muslims of Indian Origin. He has taught at several colleges and universities in India, England, and the USA.
Living as Muslims in non-Muslim societies Farid Ahmed How Muslims see other humans? Muslims see other humans as brothers and sisters. Sadly, Muslims however, are often misunderstood. Muslims believe that Allah created the first man Adam, then from him his wife Hawa (Eve), and then from the two, Allah made humans into races, colours, and nationalities. That’s why, Muslims believe that mankind is one large family who needs to look after one another without hate or cruelty, but rather with love and compassion. Are there extra responsibilities for Muslims? Yes, in non-Muslim societies, Muslims must take extra responsibilities. They cannot be complacent and laid back to avoid danger. Living in a Muslim society is much easier, however in non-Muslim societies Muslims face different challenges. If they do not take their extra duties, they may lose their courage, faith, and Hereafter. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (s) lived in Makkah, a non-Muslim society for 53 years. We can learn many lessons from his life. Allah says: “In the Messenger of Allah, you have beautiful example for one whose hope is in Allah and the final day, and who Praises Allah much.” [Al-Quran 33:21] Some extra responsibilities? 1. Be extra confident: As a Muslim, we know that “Muslim” is an honorary title from the Most Honourable Allah, so we feel special about it. We feel confident to say, “I am a peaceful Muslim.”
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Unity in Diversity dinner in New Zealand. 2. Gain extra knowledge in Islam: That will motivate you more and will give you confidence to defend your faith. You can answer questions from non-Muslim friends to remove any misunderstanding. 3. Be one of the extra-ordinary: Be a leader at school, or excel in your studies, best in writing, best in sports, or best in social work helping the more vulnerable. You do it to gain Allah’s pleasure, and through you, Allah will spread goodwill about Islam and Muslims. 4. Make a peaceful home: Make a loving home with sharing thoughts, praying together, eating together, cooking together often, and studying Islam together. Remember! A happy home releases stress
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that you face outside. Share foods, gifts with non-Muslim neighbours frequently. 5. Be extra nice: Be nice in greeting, smiling, caring, helping, and extending your hands to the service of other fellow humans. Niceness can win human hearts and can build harmony in humans. 6. Practice best character: Non-Muslims do not read your Holy Book much, they look at your character. If they see you being honest, generous, polite, and peaceful, then they will think Muslims are good people. Practice best morals for Allah’s sake, then Allah will take your guardianship. 7. Be a peace ambassador of Islam: Islam stands for peace, and a Muslim is an
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ambassador for peace. Be one and teach your children to be the same. It will help you to be a confident Muslim, it will save your Imaan from any compromise, and it will put you into the frontline of Islamic service for mankind. As a result, the true message of Islam will spread, misunderstanding about Islam will be removed, and Allah will grant you huge rewards for your extra responsibilities, Insha Allah (God willing). Farid Ahmed is a survivor of Christchurch attack on 15 May 2019, a peace advocate, author of HUSNA’S Story and Quran teacher in Christchurch. ISSUE 193 / DECEMBER 2021
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EDUCATION 18 - 19
BUSINESS 20
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T20 World Cup 2021: Between Pakistan’s blitz and India’s shame, Australia wins the game Zahid Jamil The Australian cricket team conquered the last remaining frontier in international cricket by winning T20 world cup on Sunday 14 November 2021. Rated among the best cricketing nations throughout the history of the game, Australia had not won the championship in this new format of cricket in past. Ranked number 7 at the start of the tournament, winning the title brought great joy to the team and fans in Australia. The tournament, postponed due to COVID-19 crisis in India and rescheduled to be held in oil rich gulf states of UAE and Oman, created enormous interest in the subcontinent as arch rivals India and Pakistan met in the group match on Sunday 24 October Packed stadium with many celebrities in attendance from both nations, Pakistan achieved a phenomenal victory, thrashing India by ten wickets. Pakistan won the toss and put India into bat and restricted them to 7-151 with Pakistan’s fearsome fast bowler Shaheen Afridi taking three key wickets. The opening pair of Pakistan Babar Azam (68 not out off 52 balls) and Mohammad Rizwan (79 not out off 55 balls) dwarfed Indian batting performance with a great display of beautiful shots and an unbroken partnership to win the match with more than two overs to spare. Geo-politics of South Asia meant that the two teams had not played against each other for quite sometime and again the Pakistan haters in India calling for India not to play against Pakistan in this world cup. The defeat was unbearable for the Indian fans and saffron party BJP followers created havoc on social media. The only Muslim player in the team, fast bowler Mohammad
Shami was targeted as being a traitor as his last over proved expensive. Several senior cricketers including captain Virat Kohli defended Shami and applauded his great heroics for his nation in past. Kohli was emphatic in his statement “To me, attacking someone over their religion is the most pathetic thing that a human being can do. Everyone has the right to voice their opinion over what they feel about a certain situation, but I personally have never ever even thought of discriminating (against) anyone over their religion. That’s a very sacred and personal thing to every human being. People take out their frustrations because they obviously have no understanding of what we do as individuals…..” The strong stand of captain caused more furore among Hindutava forces. Kohli was targeted to the extent that he received online rape threats for his 9 months old baby daughter. No institution in today’s India is untouched by Hindutava influence and nepotism. Currently Board of Cricket Control of India has Jay Shah, son of India’s Home Minister Amit Shah as the Secretary whose competency is questioned by many.
Many people raised eye brows over India-Afghanistan match and wondered if the match was fixed in an attempt to give India a chance to reach semi-final. Cricket in the subcontinent has been marred by such controversies for the past couple of decades where illegal betting market in India is understood to be worth $150 billion a year. Pakistan team continued to do extremely well, winning all its matches to reach the semi final. It was the only team who remained undefeated till the semi-final stages. In semi final against Australia, they again scored a highly competitive score of 176 for four wickets. Australia was in trouble early in their innings with captain Aaron Finch claimed by Shaheen Afridi in the first over. For much of the inning, Australia was short of target till Mathew Wade and Marcus Stoinis steadied the ship and Wade rose to the occasion by hitting three sixes in the 19th over, thus securing the spot in the final for Australia. The Pakistani players fell on their knees, shattered as Australia robbed them of a place in final in closing stages. Imran Khan, ex0cricket captain and current Prime Minister of Pakistan tweeted “To Babar Azam
tional lives within the boundaries of Islamic laws, not only a family but also the community will benefit at large. They stressed that with the world changing at a startling pace, minority communities must loosen the shackles on women, letting them pursue their entrepreneurial goals in a more free and welcoming environment. All the entrepreneur women were high on praise for Maeeshat’s initiative to bring them together and recognise their entrepreneurial skills and hard work. Talking to the media persons, they said the programme had successfully encouraged them to take their ventures to the next level. They were also of the opinion that programmes like this would spur many more
women into entrepreneurial activities within the community. Maeeshat Media’s Director and group Editor, who was also the programme host, expressed his gratitude and satisfaction over women entrepreneurs gracing the momentous occasion. He said Maeeshat is committed to connecting minority women entrepreneurs across the country, showcasing their skills, and giving them expert advice so that they are enabled to leap forward in their businesses. Sania Sami, Research Scholar, IISWBM, founder of Indian Institute of Research and Co Organiser said “During the last two decades, women’s entrepreneurship has been
& the team: I know exactly how all of you are feeling right now bec[ause] I have faced similar disappointments on the cricket field,” remembering the memories of the 1987 World Cup semi final when Australia had beaten Pakistan in a closely contested match in Lahore. The renowned Australian batsman and current Pakistan team batting consultant, Matthew Hayden, has been impressed with the togetherness and the spirituality of the team. Hayden said that one of the biggest aspects of this Pakistan cricket team is the way they are all united and how all the players are focused on their ultimate goal. While talking to Fox Cricket, Hayden revealed that the entire team has an unbelievable discipline and he has not seen any team in the world that spiritually bonds the way this Pakistan team does. He said that the way the whole team prays in unison is one of the most incredible experiences of his life. “Every day there is this unbelievable discipline. You can be walking to the lift, and there will be prayer time and at the base of the lift, there will be the whole of the team praying in unison. It’s a phenomenal cultural experience for me personally,” Hayden stated. “Inside the changing room I’ve never seen a more disciplined and more humble approach to winning,” he further added. Pakistan team has won many hearts despite not being able to make it to the final. Let us hope that South Asian teams will keep performing at their best and their fans will learn to understand sport and not indulge in despicable behaviour of hate and malice against each other. Zahid Jamil is an engineering post graduate from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) and runs a financial planning practice based in Sydney. He heads South Asian Muslim Association of Australia, SAMAA: samaa.org.au.
10th All India Business Summit 2021 focuses on women entrepreneurs
AMUST Media The 10th All India Minorities Business Summit and National Brand Awards for 2021, an initiative from Mumbai-based Maeeshat Media was held at Kala Mandir, Kolkata on Sunday 14 November 2021 attended by hundreds of business leaders, delegates, entrepreneurs, social workers from across the country. The summit provided a great opportunity for the participants from minority communities to come together on one platform to exchange their ideas, opinions, and strategies to drive up business activities both at the personal and community level. Although such types of summits from Maeeshat Media are being organised on an annual basis since 2010, this year, it gave special focus on ensuring the participation of women entrepreneurs. As many as 15 women entrepreneurs working in different fields marked their presence at the event and got the opportunity to showcase their business models to a larger audience in a special segment called “Women Entrepreneurs Showcase 2021.” As the women entrepreneurs started interacting with one another, several issues afflicting women entrepreneurship came to the fore. The biggest obstacle for them is society’s attitude of discounting women’s ability to work beyond the household chores, let alone set up a business. According to them, people fail to understand that if they are allowed to lead aspiraDECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 193
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recognized as a vital source of economic growth. Today women have made their existence felt in society by occupying prominent positions in the economy. Women entrepreneurs, like men, have success stories to tell about their business ventures, and they are not trailing men in a male-dominated world.” “Because the concept of an entrepreneur is not gender-specific, an entrepreneur can be either male or female. The summit also provides an opportunity to fifteen women entrepreneurs from across different niches of the business field to showcase their businesses between the attendees and motivates other women to take up entrepreneurship as their career option” Sania Sami added
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The neglected core of Islam AMUST
Mercy and forgiveness Professor Shahjahan Khan
When any person comes in contact with a Muslim, he/she should find through the behaviour, words and actions, of the Muslim that Islam is a religion of compassion, mercy, forgiveness, love, respect for the human dignity and public welfare. These key principles of Islam should be engraved in the character and person of every Muslim reflecting genuine concern of Muhammad (s), for the humanity. Sadly, the words and actions of some Muslims are far from mercy, respect and forgiveness. Their actions and speeches often wrongly portray Islam as a religion of cruelty, wrath, revenge, oppression, torture and punishment. They forget that Muhammad (s), was sent to save people from oppression and punishment and give the glad tidings of hope, forgiveness and mercy, and Muslims should be reflecting these values in their behaviour. Even where punishments are mentioned in the Qur’an, these are normally associated with a call to repentance, reformation and forgiveness. Mercy and forgiveness It is worth noting that, sadly, many Muslims seem to be unaware (or fail to notice) that the word that occurs most frequently in the Qur’an is mercy. All except one of the 114 chapters of the Qur’an begin with ‘In the name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful’. In addition, the name Al-Ghafoor (The Most Forgiving occurs in more than 70 times together other names from the same root, such as Ghafir and Ghaffar. The meaning of the Arabic word “ghafara” is to cover, to hide and from it comes the
meaning “to excuse,” “to pardon,” “to remit” and “to forgive.” Other names frequently mentioned in the Qur’an are Al-`Afuw (The Pardoner, Al-Tawwab (The Acceptor of Repentance and Al-Haleem (The Clement). Islam is a way of life from the Most Merciful and Compassionate Allah and transmitted and implemented by one who is known as the mercy of the universes, Prophet Muhammad (s), yet often the behaviour and priority of some Muslims give an opposite impression that Islam is all about harsh punishment, patriarchy, suppression of women, ignoring the rights of minorities, and killing innocent people. Aren’t these Muslims just scaring people and tarnishing the image of Islam by promoting violence and cruelty rather than mercy, hope and protection? Islam is a religion of peace, justice, and seeks public safety and welfare. Every innocent person must be safe from the hands and tongue of Muslims. Actually, a Muslim should be a safe refuge for any human being, upright, just and protecting rights of people of other faiths including the right to worship. According to the teachings of Prophet Mu-
hammad (s), Muslims must not denigrate the reputed gods of people of other faiths, and protect their places of worship. This reality is far from some of the terrible actions the world has witnessed from a few people who sadly call themselves Muslims. Doesn’t the Qur’an prohibit Muslims to suspect or spy on others to find their faults? Didn’t the Prophet try to ignore the faults of people rather than punishing them? Does Islam promote love, care, forgiveness and mercy, or hate, enmity, revenge and cruelty? Prophet Muhammad (s) even forgave a non-Muslim who urinated inside his Mosque in Madinah, and allowed him to leave unpunished after the insulting act. Can’t the Muslims today practice this sunnah of patience, mercy and forgiveness? Sometimes it seems Muslims of today, rather than inculcating within themselves the values of mercy, compassion, kindness and forgiveness, focus on aspects of more superficial Sunnah related with outer appearances rather than working on the necessary inner changes which would then be reflected in righteous actions and practices.
Mercy surpasses wrath Through His messenger, Allah communicated: Allah’s mercy surpasses His wrath (Bukhari #3194). ” Allah has divided mercy into one hundred parts; and He retained with Him ninety-nine parts, and sent down to earth one part. Through this one-part, creatures deal with one another with compassion, so much so that an animal lifts its hoof over its young lest it should hurt it” (Bukhari #6000). Every chapter (except one) of the Qur’an starts with ‘In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Most Gracious’ and its first chapter introduces Allah as ‘the Most Merciful, the Most Gracious’. So Muslims should be practicing, proclaiming, promoting, reflecting mercy (to everyone) through their words and actions unconditionally. This would ensure that Islam is a religion of mercy and forgiveness as Allah loves to forgive. Sadly, words and actions of some Muslims are far from mercy, rather the opposite of mercy. Their actions often wrongly portray Islam as a religion of cruelty, wrath, revenge, oppression, torture and punishment. They forget that Prophet Muhammad (s) was sent to save people from oppression and punishment and give the glad tidings of hope, forgiveness and mercy, and Muslims should be reflecting him in these qualities. The Qur’an says, ‘do not despair of Allah’s mercy.’ (39:53) Although, there are penalties in the Islamic legal code for certain crimes under very strict conditions, Muslims should practice ‘kind speech and forgiveness’ as these are better than charity followed by injury’ (2:263). 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.
From hobbies to life skills Hena Jawaid
As a student counsellor, I work with students of different ages, classes, and backgrounds. I have discovered some pivotal findings amongst young kids which, I presume, can reasonably affect the quality of their life in the future. Children who are encouraged by their parents to engage into different body and mind activities develop external and internal sets of living skills in the early stages of their life. • Movement or physical based activities – karate, swimming, basketball, and dancing etc. • Intellectual activities – reading and writing clubs, sci-fi and STEM activities etc. External skills are namely confidence, social skills (interaction & communication), presentation (self-carrying skills) whereas internal skills include self-awareness, self-esteem, resilience, and self-image. Having a range of activities in children opens the door of gaining adulthood life skills which is crucial in this complex world. Most individuals today fail to develop either their external or internal set of skills due to various constraints: 1. Controlled parenting 2. Limited avenues of joy 3. Prolonged periods of inactivity or pressured activity which kids do not enjoy. It is important for a child not only to keep going with a pleasurable routine, but also to
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have a breadth of options to help him or her manifest self-preferences and priorities. Here I have mentioned various life skills, however would like to emphasise and highlight the importance of self-awareness, as I have personally observed numerous benefits of this personal trait.
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The significance of having self-knowledge can never be undermined in any way. Most people in their teenage or adulthood consult mental health consultants as they are not able to understand their own emotions whilst dealing with difficult people in their lives.
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The early onset of self-awareness offers more insightful orientation to a person about explicit and implicit emotions in relation to any event, people, and experiences. It also restores one with the introspective trait to deal with constellation of multifaceted emotions without any external assistance. Emotional mindfulness is significant and extremely effective in saving a person from further complications in their future. We are already conscious that this is a world requiring high emotional intelligence. One who is emotionally mindful cannot only control his or her behavior, but can also anticipate behavior of others around them and therefore be in a better position to influence others. On the other hand, most of life’s troubles arise when one is not emotionally informed and hence, is prone to confusion, stress, and vulnerability. The childhood phase is the most important part of ones’ life to build and nourish this particular capacity. This should be emphasized in schools and early learning centers also, in order to reform educational curriculum and well-being frameworks to help provide robust opportunities of love, care, and space for actions to a child. It can be the best way for children to thrive and grow whilst having a dynamic set of life skills, ultimately helping them to live a purposeful life where they can positively influence their community and contribute to society at large. ISSUE 193 / DECEMBER 2021
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The most merciful, the most compassionate
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Read the full version
Dr Asrar Talukder Disclaimer: I read the Quran in the light of science, philosophy, ethics, and public policy. This is not a theological discussion, but some rational thinking shaped by the Quran. Imagine someone unfamiliar to Islam, opens a copy of the Quran and reads from the very beginning. The first two names of Allah, he or she will learn are the most merciful and the most compassionate. As if Allah wants us to know first and foremost these two of his 99 names. In Arabic, every word has its three root letters. The Arabic words for merciful and compassionate, both have the same root letters, which are r-h-m. It means womb of a mother. As a human being our first contact with the world is the womb of our mother, where we have been completely wrapped up by her love and mercy. Secondly, Allah has given us the responsibility for the stewardship of our earth and environments. And how we
should be, Allah says in the Quran that, “We have sent you (O Prophet) only as a mercy for the whole world.” (Quran 21: 107) The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed to us an inconvenient truth. Our total lockdowns were a respite for the environments. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA) report, in 2020 alone there was around 5.8% less emission of CO2, the highest single reduction since the second world war. In 2009 due to the global financial crisis, there was another similar event of reduced emissions though at a much smaller scale. Our economic calamities appear to be a blessing for our environment. How long will we be able to sustain this anti-environmental economic growth model? As a Muslim, we should ask ourselves, “Am I a mercy to me, to the humanity and the environment?” We must know one thing that all our mothers know very well; being a mercy is not a painless journey. Motherhood comes through labour pain. Often, we confuse between pain and harm. Medical procedures are sometime painful. Otherwise, it would be harmful. It seems easy to understand but not so easy to practice when it comes to our public policy debates.
Before the pandemic, in Australia there had been an unprecedented bushfire calamity preceded by another severe drought. “Corruption has appeared throughout the land and sea by [reason of] what the hands of people have earned so He may let them taste part of [the consequence of] what they have done that perhaps they will return [to righteousness].” (Quran 30: 41) Every natural calamity has its physical causes, mostly the consequences of our overuse of the environment. The calamity is not a divine punishment per se, but a severe
warning as well as an opportunity. If we realise the consequences of our irresponsible activities in time and repair them before it is too late, the calamity will be a blessing. We Muslim won’t be able to do this alone. It requires our collective human efforts. Read the full version: https://tinyurl.com/53t27erm Dr Asrar Talukder is a marine geologist and a passionate community activist. He is based in Perth, Australia.
Donation to Afghani Refugees Faisel Essof At a recent presentation ceremony held on Friday 19 November 2021 at Milperra School (QLD), Muslim Charitable Foundation (MCF) made a donation of Backpacks, Lunch Boxes, Drink Flasks, Laptops, and Vouchers for School Shoes to 20
Afghani School Children and their Families. Federal MP Graham Perrett was on hand to present the items to the parents. All this was made possible with donations from the local community for whom we make dua that Allah reward you all abundantly.
Parents Beware: One in five children are vaping Philip Feinstein Banning of cigarettes is coming, and banning of vaping could be next . . . . Children as young as 12 have succumbed to the new trend of smoking: Vaping. And the internet is an easy source for them to obtain the product. “Despite nicotine not being in all the products, different popular flavours are prevalent as a drawcard for kids” said Philip Feinstein, manager of the Smokenders stop-smoking program. “Which young kid is not drawn to fruity flavours like bubble-gum and passionfruit?” he asks. Around 14% of 17-year-olds have tried an e-cigarette which contains nicotine, with around 32% of these students having used one in the past month. It now looks like a new section of children are taking up vaping. Despite the Australian government now banning nicotine products, vaping devices can be bought from many stores without a doctor’s prescription. And users have a choice of things to insert, including nicotine and marijuana. Meanwhile . . . . DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 193
1) e-cigarettes are flooding the Australian market with most coming from China. 2) e-cigarettes have nicotine in them, but the active ingredient level is not monitored. The result is that someone who was smoking a low nicotine level of cigarettes (e.g. 0.8mg/nic) will now take in up to 9 times that amount. 3) Whether the vaping is from an e-cigarette or another vaping device, when the smoker thinks they have consumed all the product, they could keep on puffing, not realising what they are now inhaling. Substances like lithium and silicates can cause cancer. Prof Emily Banks, epidemiologist with Australian National University, researched vaping products. “We have information about impacts like seizures and other health issues among some users, she said. Regarding the use of vaping to stop smoking cigarettes, she said, “For most smokers, e-cigarettes are not effective tools to assist them to quit, and the majority of people who vape in Australia are not using the products as smoking cessation devices.” In backing Prof Banks’ view of smoking cessation, Feinstein stated: “People do not smoke cigarettes just for the nicotine intake – a smoker will use cigarettes when stressed, bored, lonely, angry, and other emotional situations. They also smoke with
triggers like a coffee/tea, beer/wine, after a meal, and many more situations.” Professor Banks added: “Vaping advocates say people using e-cigarettes are using them to quit smoking, but it simply isn’t true.” Another furphy is about the level of nicotine for those people vaping. “Just like cigarettes have different levels of nicotine, the same applies to vaping” commented Feinstein. “There are no controls at the moment with regards to levels of nicotine when vaping.” Greg Hunt, Minister for Health, has brought in restrictions on the importation of nicotine for vaping. Vape users now need a doctor’s prescription, followed by a visit to their local pharmacy. However many doctors are reluctant to issue prescriptions. Meanwhile petitions to reverse the Greg
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Hunt decision are failing. “It is harder to quit smoking than to get off heroin” says Philip Feinstein. “Heroin is a physical addiction, whilst smoking is physical, psychological, emotional, social and is also used following mental triggers. That is why ‘quick-fixes’ like patches, tablets, gums, hypnotherapy and vaping have very little success.” People wanting to quit smoking need to address all the issues in order to succeed. To stop smoking, contact: Smokenders Australia on 1800-021-000 Free-Call – www.smokenders.com.au Smokenders New Zealand 0800-041-000 Free-Call – www.smokenders.com.au Philip Feinstein is a Sydney based writer, musician and activist working for MUSIC FOR REFUGEES www.musicforrefugees.org
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Islamic Finance 101 Fasten seat-belts:
Must travel quiz
Muhammad Lambat What is Islamic Finance? For many Muslims, not getting involved with Riba (usury) is as far as Islamic finance goes. Although avoiding Riba plays a significant part in Islamic finance, there is more to Islamic finance than this. Let us get into the basics, the factors involved and the reasoning behind these rules. Islamic finance follows Islamic principles and jurisprudence, which is designed to promote social and economic justice. There is great focus on partnerships when it comes to Islamic finance, which means that for both parties in any transaction, profit and risk should be shared equally. This eliminates the ability of one side taking advantage of the other. Conventional finance’s interest-based framework puts most of the risk on the borrower, which is the very opposite of Islamic finance. This brings us back to Riba and why it is prohibited in Islam. So what is interest? It is a rental or leasing charge to the borrower for the use of an asset. Interest benefits the lender, who charges interest at the borrower’s expense. This causes an imbalance, where one side wins and the other loses. In Islam, money is viewed as a means of exchange and has no real value in and of itself. Hence, money is not allowed to be made on something which doesn’t hold any real value. Instead, Islam encourages making money out of an asset, which holds its own value. Gharar (excessive risk) and Maysir (speculation) are also problematic in conventional finance. Derivative contracts such as futures and options are examples of Gharar and Maysir. These contracts involve uncertainty as
they aim to predict the future price of an underlying asset and they lead to one party benefiting at the cost of the other. Islamic finance safeguards us from falling into excessively risky or speculative investments and requires that all terms are clear before either party enters a contract. Why is it important? As Muslims, it is important for us to follow Islam in all aspects of our lives. By understanding what we can and cannot get involved with, we guarantee that we earn a Halal income. Islamic finance is not restricted or beneficial only to Muslims. Its transparent model encourages being ethical and moral, both of which will further enhance our communities and economies. Where do I start? We are fortunate to live in a world where there are numerous options for Muslims to store and grow our wealth. As an alternative to conventional savings accounts, Shariah-compliant savings accounts allow you to earn profit rather than interest. Investing in Shariah-compliant assets such as Halal stocks and property is another great way to grow your wealth. For Muslims looking to purchase a house through Halal means, Islamic mortgages are a great alternative to conventional mortgages. Islamic finance is becoming more widely recognised, and better options and alternatives to its conventional counterparts are being developed. I for one am very excited to witness the rapid growth in the Islamic finance industry over the coming years. Muhammad is the founder of Muslim Investing – an Instagram blog built with the idea to create a community of financially literate Muslims. Through the Muslim Investing page, he shares content to educate Muslims on ethical investing and Islamic finance. His aim is to create awareness around the misconceptions of finance in Islam in a simplified way.
Christine Osborne Now that we have been cleared for overseas travel, how much have you learned during Australia’s COVID lockdown? Or how much have you forgotten? Armchair travellers should score well, but nothing compares with the thrill of a lift-off. Up, up and away. Allow for 5 minutes to complete the below quiz: 1) An Australian passport is valid for: a) Three years (b) Five years (c) Ten years 2) Which is considered the Pacific Island where time begins? a) Fiji (b) New Caledonia (c) Tonga 3) The legendary African city of Timbuktu is in: a) Mali (b) Morocco (c) Nigeria 4) The Badshahi Mosque in Pakistan is located in: a) Karachi (b) Islamabad (c) Lahore 5) Well-dressed travellers will know these streets… (a) Bond Street (b) Condotti (c) Kalverstraat (d) Faubourg St Honore 6) Where is the world’s current tallest building? (a) Abu Dhabi (b) Bahrain (c) Dubai (d) Doha
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8) The Nabataean city of Petra located in: (a) Jordan (b) Iraq (c) Saudi Arabia (d) Iran 9) Name the capital city of the State of Texas: (a) Houston (b) Dallas (c) Austin (d) Fort Worth 10) From which London station does Eurostar leave for Paris? (a) St Pancras (b) Victoria (c) Waterloo (d) Paddington 11) The miraculous zam-zam well is located in…? a) Jeddah (b) Makkah (c) Madinah (d) Jerusalem 12) Rembrandt’s Night Watch is seen in the…? (a) Louvre (b) Riksmuseum (c) Prado (d) Tate Britain Christine Osborne is the author of many books on Islamic countries including Pakistan. She is also the CEO of www.worldreligionsphotolibrary.com a multi- faith collection specialising in the mainstream faiths. She has visited more than 30 Muslim majority countries. Answers: I) Ten years, 2) Tonga, 3) Mali, 4) Lahore, 5) London, Rome, Amsterdam, Paris, 6) Dubai, 7) Bali, 8) Jordan, 9) Austin, 10) St Pancras International, 11) Makkah, 12) Riksmuseum Amsterdam
Is creative thinking a key to success?
Henna Jawaid
Information is used as a weapon in the world today to control people and to direct their thoughts or to shape one’s mindset according to demand. In this age, we require critical and analytical skills more than ever. Thus, it can be inferred that rote learning is the educational mode of yesteryear. Nowadays, creativity is inevitable and one has to think out of the box. Problem-solving skills are more stressed than working on pre-existing operating systems. Environment, architecture, engineering and medicine all these fields require extensive set of approaches to deal with existing problems like landfill, traffic jam, road traffic accidents, health problems secondary to GMO and processed foods, incidents and prevalence of chronic illnesses like hypertension and diabetes, manufacturing dilemmas where industry requires cost effective measure (mechanical work replacing manpower for robust output).
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7) Gamelan is the traditional ensemble music of…? (a) Singapore (b) Bali (c) Myanmar (d) Sri Lanka
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Everywhere around the world, professions and businesses are emphasizing on educational styles. It is underscoring new methods of learning which can prompt independent thinking within a person so that people can turn out to be more thoughtful , reflective, productive and creative than ever. Independent and innovative thinking is imperative with passage of time. We are in a world where the consequences of our past actions is putting the survival of future generation on edge. For example plastic products, car fumes, processed food, nuclear experiments and tree consumption etc. The out-of-the-box thinking is a capacity which can be cultivated by both parents and teachers together. It cannot be a sole responsibility of a school. Parents can encourage children to take part in library-based activities like STEM clubs, reading and writing clubs and science projects. Socialisation is another great opportunity to be creative. Interaction and resulting conflicts are great tools to develop confidence, self-reliance and self-awareness attributes through range of challenging situations. ISSUE 193 / DECEMBER 2021
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KIDS DEEN TIMES Weekly Deen classes continue These Deen classes were started in July 2021 and are continuing every Saturday and Sunday. These Deen classes have students from all over the world, USA, Canada, UK, India, Pakistan and from Australia. The Saturday class timings are 9:00 am and Sunday class timings are 6:00 pm Sydney times. The link for joining Kid’s Zoom meeting is Meeting ID: 821 7610 1682 Passcode: DEEN Any child younger than 11 years are welcome to join these classes. During these classes the kids learn about Prophets’ stories, daily duas and important moral stories for their character building. On Some days kids play Kahoot or some other Quiz games. There is usually short surah and learning hadith session at the end as well. Although Emaan N Malik is facilitating all Deen classes, but other kids are also given equal opportunity to participate and contribute during the class. All kids who are very regular and contribute during the classes receive surprise gifts via mail.
All about Emaan Malik and the Dawah Project Message Cards That was written By Emaan Malik to spread them throughout the Neighbourhood.
Ruth (left) was very excited to have receive a card with a hadith written by Emaan on it.
Short Messages that was Witten in the Cards are as shown.
Hawa Emaan N Malik is nine and a half years old and is a student of year 4, and she lives in New South Wales, Australia. She started hosting and facilitating classes few months ago. It was during this time when Sydney, Melbourne, and most of the countries around the world were in lockdown. She is extremely passionate to run Deen classes every week.
She has memorized 30th Juz of the Quran and is in the process of memprising the 29th Juz. She is also learning Arabic and Urdu languages in addition to her regular education at school. Her aim is to become Hafiza (to memorise the entire Quran) and to serve Allah’s Deen and His creations. She also wants to become a doctor so that she can help sick and can make their lives better. She wants to build a big school overseas to support poor girls to get education
easily. She has started doing Dawah projects and is spreading the message of goodness, love, and care by spreading the words of our beloved Prophet (s) to neighbors and friends. Her mother is also a doctor and is serving the local community. Please look forward to the Dawah Project further and any new project that has yet to be host by Emaan Malik in the future.
Salat Time Charts
Controlling your temper Draw by Momina Ali
Drawn By Umar Anas
Maria Saad Temper is when something you don’t like happens to you, the Shatan uses that to anger you. When you become angry perform wudu, anger is from Shatan, Shatan was created from fire, fire is extinguished only with water. A Companion asked Prophet Muhammad, “advise me,” the Prophet replied: “Don’t get angry.” Maria Saad is nine years old. DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 193
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Drawn By Maria Saad AUSTRALASIAN MUSLIM TIMES
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Social Spotlights
Muslim Women’s Association of SA
@MuslimWomens AssociationSA We held another sewing workshop last month for our SETS ladies! We taught them how to use electric sewing machines as they have only had experience using hand-operated machines before. This time, they learnt how to make face masks and used the leftover fabric to make pillowcases The workshop was conducted by professional dressmaker, Mahboba Bahmani, who did a wonderful job of inspiring our ladies to practice and improve their sewing skills! We look forward to sewing you at the next one!
Unity Grammar
@UnityGrammar
Our new community service prefects for 2022 Bilal Fahda and Lujeyn Ahmad today arranged for delivery of sleeping bags donated by our families to the homeless community in Sydney. Since 2018 the school has delivered over 500 sleeping bags to homeless Australians distributed by our partners at Brothers In Need and the The Rev Bill Crews Foundation. Covid may have impacted on our programs but it has not stopped our spirit of service and giving!
Subhi Bora
@subhi.bora
I never thought I’d see the day when a piece of #Uyghur and #Uzbek culture would be on the front page of a major newspaper. This one’s for all the Central Asians out there but especially for my Uyghur fam. We still have a really long way to go when it comes to appropriate Uyghur (or even more generally Turkic) representation. I hope this piece has a positive contribution to that in some small way. Aina (the journalist) and I were able to get «Turkic” included which was great. And I tried getting East Turkistan printed instead of Xinjiang. Or at least “so called autonomous region in current day northwestern China. .” Which unfortunately didn’t happen. I hope this will change in future. I hope it will be common knowledge that calling our homeland “Xinjiang” is using the colonisers language and not ours. It carries trauma of an active genocide and detracts from our identity. It’s like if someone were to call Palestine “Israel.” —— Thanks to @ainajkhan for the words. @isabellamelody for the photography. @beni.lab for the initiative. @sonyimin for mailing the print copy to me all the way from the US. And my family for the support.
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United Muslims of Australia (UMA)
@UnitedMuslims OfAustralia We would like to congratulate our very own Sheikh Shadi Alsuleiman, President of the Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) and the United Muslims of Australia (UMA), for being internationally recognised for the 3rd year in a row as one of the 500 most influential Muslims around the world by The Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre publication “The Muslim 500: The World’s 500 Most Influential Muslims”. May Allah reward him and keep him steadfast. https://themuslim500.com/profiles/ shady-alsuleiman/
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Islamic Womens Welfare Assoc.
@islamicwomens welfareassoc Thank you to our volunteers, @ozharvest Multicultural NSW and @ourcbcity for your commitment to helping those needing assistance in our community. Making sure our community is fed and protected!
ISSUE 193 / DECEMBER 2021
UMMAH 16 - 17
EDUCATION 18 - 19
BUSINESS 20
TOP 6 Memes
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VIDEOS To Watch
Tweets
#AhmaudArbery
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Is the vaccine halal?
Is the vaccine halal? Should we be taking it? Is it safe? COVID 19 has made such an impact on all of our lives. The vaccine is an opportunity to ease the situation that we’re going through. But there is so much misinformation and confusion. If the vaccine is injected into me, I have a right to know what’s in it. We want to know if there’s anything in the vaccine that is haram (forbidden) and is a considered halal (permissible). The Pfizer vaccine was proudly co-developed by Turkish origin Muslim scientists. Muslim doctors and medical experts scientifically confirmed that Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines do not contain any prohibited substances or ingredient. Islamic scholars and leaders from around the world have endorsed the vaccine and encourage Muslims to take it. None of the currently available vaccines contains gelatin or any animal products. The Australian National Imams Council gave a fatwa, an Islamic verdict, that the vaccine is permissible. The Australian Fatwa Council consulted with Muslim doctors and medical experts who specialize in vaccines and viruses, seeking clarity on the composition of the Covid vaccine, according to Islamic law. The Covid vaccine is permissible, as there is no known religious harm attributed to being vaccinated. Nor does it contain any forbidden substances. The vaccine is necessary if there is any possible risk of harm to other humans due to non vaccination. There is a religious obligation to preserve human life that has been honored by Allah the Almighty and Allah knows best. Learn More at health.gov.au. ANIC Press Release and Fatwa: https://tinyurl.com/vaccinefatwa Video: youtu.be/LFlOYPiECRg
DECEMBER 2021 / ISSUE 193
Daniya Syed recognised in parliament
Congratulations to Unity Grammar’s Vice Captain Daniya Atif Syed and Unity Grammar for being acknowledged in the Australian Parliament! A huge achievement only a few accomplish in their lifetime! Daniya Atif Syed was acknowledged for her contributions to robotics and STEM including representing Australia with her school. Daniya was also acknowledged for her prolific charity and volunteer work with the school and numerous other community organisations and defending the human rights of people everywhere. Earlier this year Daniya won the following awards Anne Stanley, Member for Werriwa, NSW, said, “I would like to congratulate Daniya Atif Syed, a 17-year-old Bardia student who was named the 2021 Western Sydney Young Woman of the Year at the 2021 Western Sydney Women Awards. Daniya attends Unity Grammar, which is an excellent and innovative school in my electorate. I’ve had the privilege of visiting Unity Grammar many times and speaking to students, including Miss Syed. Daniya is an inspiration to our community. Her proud parents told me that she is passionate about new and emerging technologies and is developing several solutions to help people with disability or who are older. The award acknowledged her charity and volunteer work as well. Daniya has received a number of other awards this year. Many congratulations.” Video: fb.watch/9yu56BuWWg
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What is Omicron?
Can we travel now?
Omicron is the latest COVID-19 variant (first reported on 24 November 2021 in South Africa) by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
It is important you find out about the restrictions and conditions for the place you are travelling to. You should do this before booking or leaving your home.
It had several mutations, and early evidence suggested an increased reinfection risk. It has also been identified in Botswana, Belgium, Hong Kong, Israel and many more countries. A number of countries around the world have now decided to ban or restrict travel to and from southern Africa. Australian states and territories have announced NEW measures for international travellers entering Australia in response to the Omicron #COVID19 variant. All flights to Australia from nine southern African countries - South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Lesotho, Eswatini, Seychelles, Malawi and Mozambique have been suspended for two weeks. Urgent genomic testing is underway in NSW to determine whether two COVID-19 POSITIVE overseas arrivals that landed in Sydney are carrying the new Omicron variant.
Masks must still be worn everywhere, except for in your home. It also applies to public transport, all workplaces, shopping centres, libraries and secondary schools. Even if you wear traditional or religious garments, you still need to wear a fitted face mask in designated settings. There are face masks available that can be worn with traditional and religious garments. If you are wearing a face covering, it is recommended that you wear your face mask underneath.
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How to stay safe at the Mosque Recommendations to Mosque attendees • Wear a mask properly and keep it on at all times whilst at the mosque. • Do not attend the masjid if you are or anyone around you is ill, even if it is mild, • Performing wudu at home is preferable, • Limit gathering inside and outside the masjid, • No hugging, kissing or hand shaking before or after salah, • Bring your own, clean and washed, prayer mat, or use disposable ones provided. • For those who come in shorts, bring your own sarong. • It is recommended that you change your clothes once you get home and place them in the wash. Always wash your hands afterwards
Recommendations to Mosque committee • Ensure the building is properly ventilated, • Keep congregation to under 15 mins – aerate between sessions • Make mask wearing mandatory • Sanitise attendees upon entry • Apply social distancing in queues • Congregants to bring their own prayer mats or provide disposable mats, • Temperature checks at the door, • Limiting of aloud recitation, • Limiting use of communal items • Each masjid will need to decide on a capacity according to density limits (1 person per 4sqm, and 1 person per 2 sqm from 1/12). They should clearly display this capacity to minimise any risk and to avoid fines Read more recommendations at: https://tinyurl.com/69vadj8m
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The Australian aviation industry has developed Domestic Passenger Journey Protocols. These protocols provide clear and consistent guidance to reduce the risk of COVID-19 in domestic airports and on aircraft. NSW There are no longer any restrictions for travel within NSW for fully vaccinated people, unless you have recently arrived from overseas, particularly a country of concern. All fully vaccinated travellers arriving in NSW who have been in any overseas country must get a COVID-19 PCR (nose and throat) test and self-isolate at their place of residence for at least 72 hours. From 28 November 2021 new rules are in place for people travelling to NSW from overseas. For more information about the rules around leaving and entering NSW from outside Australia, visit International travel to and from NSW. VIC People from other states no longer need to get a travel permit to enter Victoria, regardless of their vaccination status. You don’t need to quarantine or hold a permit to enter Victoria from another Australian state or territory to visit, work, transit, or if you are a cross-border resident. You don’t require a permit if you have completed hotel quarantine interstate and wish to enter Victoria. You don’t require a permit if you are a domestic or an international air crew services worker.
ISSUE 193 / DECEMBER 2021