Issue 211 - June 2023

AMUST AUSTRALASIAN MUSLIM TIMES

Muslims and the Indigenous Voice to Parliament

Muslim doctors address

contemporary issues in healthcare at inaugural conference

Erdogan’s win should lead to reconciliation

India uses G20 summit for Kashmir colonisation

Community honours Bilal El-Hayek as Mayor

Dangers of bullying and cyberbullying

EDUCATION PAGE 20

MEFF: Eid festival defies the odds with over 20,000 in attendance

More than 300 medical professionals joined the two-day inaugural conference of the Australian Islamic Medical Association (AIMA) in Sydney on Sat 13Sun 14 May 2023 and while networking discussed a variety of topics intersecting modern medicine and Islamic ethics.

The gala dinner held on Saturday night at the Bankstown Sports Club attended by delegates, their spouses and community leaders was addressed by the newly elected Canterbury Bankstown Council Mayor Bilal ElHayek and NSW Ministers, Sophie Cotsis and Jihad Dib.

The conference was fully booked out to capacity well before the closing date of the registrations and the full house of the conference hall during various sessions indicated the thirst amongst Muslim doctors to attend such forums and listen to a diverse range of speakers well versed in their professional field in relation with Islamic world view.

AIMA president Dr Muhammad Afzal Kahloon, during his welcome address, thanked the delegates for showing great enthusiasm in registering for the conference saying, “this event is not only history in the making but its you, who are making history.”

Continued on page 9

John Mahoney

More than 100 invited guests joined a special night of celebration in Sydney on Friday 26 May to mark the recent election of Bilal El-Hayek as Mayor of the City of Canterbury Bankstown at ANIC headquarters at Chullora.

Born in Lebanon, the father of four is the first Muslim ever to hold the position of mayor of one of the largest Australian Local

Government Areas (LGA) with the highest number of Muslim residents.

The gathering was hosted by The Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) in conjunction with the Alliance of Australian Muslims (AAM) and those present included high-profile figures from the three levels of government along with religious and other community leaders, elders and local business owners.

Continued on page 3

MEFF, Sydney’s 38th annual Multicultural Eid Festival & Fair with the slogan “Rain, Hail or Shine” again showed its resilience despite the prediction of 100% of rain that was eventually reduced to 10%, managing to attract tens of thousands of its loyal patrons on Sunday 30 April at Fairfield Showground to enjoy the festivities of Eid.

MEFF Lunch Reception was attended by over 150 invited guests including politicians, community and interfaith leaders who also attended the Main Ceremony together with large crowds who were addressed from the stage by representatives from three tiers of the government including the Chief Guest, NSW Minister Jihad Dib, Federal MP Dai Le and Mayor Frank Carbone.

MEFF is the first, largest and longest-running Eid festival in Australia, being founded in 1985 by late Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad OAM helped by his extended family and with wider community support.

MEFF 2023 delivered an enhanced Islamic festival experience for its patrons including thrilling rides including camel and pony rides, a reptile zoo, multicultural cuisine, arts workshops, quiz competitions culminating with a spectacular fireworks.

Continued on page 12

AMUST Media

Mehar Ahmad

AIMA President

Dr Muhammad Afzal Kahloon

MEFF 2023 in pictures: Page 12 - 13

Palestine: Allah’s baker, Khader Adnan is no more

Dr Vacy Vlazna

If I were asked if I could meet anyone in the world- I’d choose Khader Adnan, “Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un.”

Khader Adnan, 45, was murdered by the Jewish State of Israel in an Israeli prison on Tuesday 2 May 2023. But to this Palestinian resistance fighter there was no prison able to confine his integrity, his moral power and his freedom to resist.

Khader Adnan was subjected to 12 arrests including his second arrest as a Birzeit University student, by Israel’s proxy police, the Palestinian Authority, for his protesting the French FM who referred to Palestinian resistance as ‘terrorism’ despite knowing that it is legal, in international law, for all people under oppression to have the right to resist.

In his hometown, Jenin, Khader Adnan became the spokesperson for the spirit of resistance of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad Movement committed to restore the State of Palestine held, now over 7 decades, under Israeli brutal occupation.

Imprisonment by Israel is state terrorism: prisoners suffer torture, inhumane conditions, and the violation of their legal rights by administrative detention in which prisoners are indefinitely held without charges and denied lawyers.

Nonetheless, each of the 12 arrests Khader Adnan suffered, every violation of his and fellow-prisoners rights, he grew in stature and determination.

Ironically the source of his sustaining energy to stand against injustice, was the injustice itself and something we all have, the

Israel unleashed terror on Gaza: Assassinated entire families

profound capacity to care for others.

Thus, it is not a coincidence that Khader was a baker: spiritually, bread is a blessing from Allah especially gifting the holy month of fasting and alms-giving.

In prison, Khader gave all he had as alms, his body and Truth, to gift to justice.

In 2012, he gifted a 66 day non-violent hunger strike.

In 2014-5 a 56 day non-violent hunger strike and

On the 87th day of his final non-violent hunger strike he was murdered by intentional Israeli medical neglect; this is one of the Israeli hands-off homicidal ‘weapons’ like the too common murder of bleeding to death of Palestinians wounded because of the intentional denial of ambulance access.

Some may say Khader died for justice. Truth is Israel killed him. We know Khader LIVED for justice for his wife Randa Mousa, for his 9 children, for all Palestinian children, mothers, and fathers.

Dr Vacy Vlazna is Coordinator of Justice for Palestine Matters. She is the editor of a volume of Palestinian poetry, I remember my name.

Mohamed Ainullah

Israel’s bombing raids on Gaza since Tuesday 9 May have killed dozens of Palestinians including resistant fighters and their wives and children with more than 100 injured amongst them many civilians. Gaza remains totally under cruel blockade with all crossings closed preventing travel for urgent humanitarian needs of patients and injured.

The Palestinian health ministry in Gaza had earlier reported that six people were killed in Israeli strikes. Four of them were members of the military wing of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, the group said, adding that two died in Khan Younis and the other two in Rafah. A 10-year-old girl was also killed in Gaza City in unclear circumstances.

On Tuesday, 15 Palestinians, including three commanders of the resistant group Islamic Jihad were killed in the initial Israeli air strikes on the Gaza Strip including eight women and children and another 22 people were injured.

Rockets fired from Gaza has resulted in

the death of one Israeli and damage to an apartment block in Rehovot in central Israel. On Thursday night a barrage of rockets reached the area around Tel Aviv, Israel’s commercial capital, about 60km (37 miles) north of Gaza.

Firing of mortars and rockets from Gaza at Israeli communities near the Gaza perimeter fence damaged two homes in the Eshkol Regional Council area.

The latest attacks by Israel on Gaza have been condemned widely including the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in particular for the civilian loss of life.

His spokesman said in a statement that Guterres “condemns the civilian loss of life, including that of children and women, which he views as unacceptable and must stop immediately”, the statement read.

The stament further urged all parties concerned to “exercise maximum restraint and to work to stop hostilities immediately.”

Meanwhile Israeli night raid continue on occupied West Bank almost on a daily basis.

Mohamed Ainullah is an honorary Sub-Editor responsible for mediascan section of AMUST. He is based in NSW, Australia.

Part of the local community

Community honours Bilal El-Hayek as Mayor

Continued from page 1

The special interview with the new mayor in this edition of AMUST provides readers an insight into the background, achievements and future plans of the man charged with leading Canterbury Bankstown into the future, while the ANIC celebrations gave

those present the chance to learn more about Bilal El-Hayek from some of those who really know him best.

And family aside, who better to pay tribute to the son of Lebanese immigrants than his political mentors and heroes including Federal Ministers Tony Burke and Jason

Imran Khan, wife and party members on no fly list

Waseem Ahmad

The government of Pakistan has put restrictions on Imran Khan, his wife Bushra Bibi and more than 500 leaders and members of his Pakistan Tehreek-eInsaf (PTI) party from travelling abroad following arrests, torture and forced resignations of top PTI leaders and crackdown on protesters and their family members.

Earlier in May, after a dramatic snatching of former Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan by paramilitary forces from the confines of Islamabad High Court and following nationwide popular protests for the last three days, Pakistan’s Supreme Court ruled the arrest illegal and ordered his release on Thursday 11 May.

Supreme Court

Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial asked Khan to appear on Friday at the Islamabad High Court where Khan may ask the court for protection from future arrests. Meanwhile he remains detained under the jurisdiction of the court.

On Tuesday 9 May morning the anti-corruption agency of Pakistan arrested the former Prime Minister, Imran Khanfrom Islamabad High Court using a paramilitary force breaking in through windows and doors.

According to eyewitnesses, Khan was subjected to physical assault, torture, and dragged into an armored vehicle by the paramilitary force.

This resulted in a fresh wave of unrest in the country, with violent confrontations erupting between the police and Khan’s supporters, resulting several deaths and more than 1600 arrests.

Pakistan’s military has had a long and controversial involvement in the country’s politics since its independence from British rule in 1947. The military has played a significant role in shaping the political land-

scape of Pakistan, often intervening in the country’s political affairs, either directly or indirectly.

Throughout the history of the country, the military has repeatedly assumed control of the government through coups or the imposition of martial law, resulting in four instances of martial law and three decades of military rule.

The military has faced significant criticism for its severe human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings and the abduction of political activists, particularly in ethnically diverse regions such as Baluchistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Political analysts suggest that the relationship between Imran Khan and the powerful military soured when Khan pursued an independent foreign policy, refusing to align with any international blocs, particularly with regard to the Russia/Ukraine conflict and the shifting global power dynamics between the USA and China. The country’s upcoming general elections, scheduled for October this year, have been overshadowed by criticism directed towards the military for allegedly exerting undue influence on the already fragile judiciary, thus delaying the electoral process. The military’s opposition stems from concerns that Imran Khan may return to power, which has created apprehension among certain segments of the population.

In Pakistan, political turmoil is common, with no prime minister having completed a full term, and military rule dominating nearly half of the country’s history.

The country is presently grappling with an economic crisis, compounded by the pandemic and devastating floods that ravaged Pakistan last year. Despite the precarious state of affairs, there appears to be no external force exerting pressure on the Pakistan military to address their egregious human rights violations or restore the already tenuous democracy.

Clare, along with Jihad Dib, who earlier this year became the first-ever politician to be inducted into the NSW Cabinet holding the Holy Qur’an.

Australia’s Grand Mufti Sheikh Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohamed, ANIC president Sheikh Shadi Alsuleiman (the driving force behind the highly successful and enjoyable night which was literally put together within a fortnight) and successful barrister and ANIC spokesman Bilal Rauf also spoke about ElHayek passionately.

The overwhelming consensus from all of the speakers was that Canterbury Bankstown, with a population of some 380,000 residents (roughly a third of them Muslims) could not have a better man than El-Hayek to assume the role as mayor of Australia’s third most populous LGA.

He replaces former Mayor Khal Asfour, who remains on Council and also received high praise from the guest speakers as did other well known, veteran Council members Khodr Saleh and Linda Downey.

Sheikh Shadi was full of praise for Bi-

lal El-Hayek, describing him not only as a proud Muslim but “a proud member of the Canterbury Bankstown family, who serves everyone.”

“I have never seen an area where all of the MPs, both federal and state, and the councillors (and I include general manager Matt Stewart who is the engine behind the Council) work so well together and tonight is a reflection of that.”

“I applaud the election of Bilal El-Hayek as mayor and the ongoing process that is the growth and prosperity of this Council.”

The new Mayor often refers to Federal Employment Minister and Leader of the House of Representatives Tony Burke as his mentor and it was an emotional Mr Burke who took to the microphone and addressed his protege: “we are so tremendously proud of you because what we as MPs hope for the whole community, we are seeing in you.”

“And if we can see it, there are young people in our local community and ultimately throughout Australia who will also see it.”

Modi’s role in Gujarat massacres in focus during BBC documentary screening

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Australia towards the end of May week was tainted through the soldout screening of the BBC documentary at Parliament House in Canberra on Wednesday 24 May highlighting his role in the Gujarat massacres in 2002.

The documentary India: The Modi Question, which highlighted a secret UK government report that claimed Modi was “directly responsible” for enabling massacres, which it said bore “all the hallmarks of ethnic cleansing”, has been banned in India using the Modi government’s emergency powers.

The screening was followed by a panel discussion which included Dr Aakashi

Bhatt, daughter of jailed former IPS officer Sanjiv Bhatt; Professor Mohan Dutta of the Center for Culture-Centered Approach to Research and Evaluation (CARE); Dr Kalpana Wilson of the South Asian Solidarity Group; Senator Jordan Steele-John and Senator David Shoebridge.

Dr Bhatt’s powerful story of the heroism and sacrifice of her father, Sanjiv butt, the only living person to have come forward as a witness to Modi’s instruction to Gujarat law enforcement to allow the massacres to occur without intervention was the highlight of the event.

Senators Steel-John and Shoebridge iterated the need to have close ties with India but the greater need for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to speak the truth and raise the human rights issues in India with Modi.

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

Manarul Islam

Imran Khan’s arrest was ruled illegal by Pakistan’s Supreme Court.

Islam, Muslim Australians, and the Indigenous Voice to Parliament

Prof Halim Rane, A/Prof Debbie Bargallie, and Dr Troy Meston

The resilience of Australia’s First Peoples has afforded other Australians, who have all migrated since British colonisation, time to awaken to our own reality of residing on land that was never ceded but taken by force.

Muslims have a vested interest in reconciliation and a treaty with Indigenous Australians. The homes we live in are on stolen land. The food we eat is grown and raised on stolen land. Our existence here is highly problematic and doubtful as to its lawfulness in the absence of a treaty and reconciliation.

Muslim Australians are particularly supportive of Indigenous Australian peoples. The Islam in Australia survey conducted in 2019 found 94 percent agree or strongly agree that Indigenous Australians should be recognised in Australia’s Constitution.

Indigenous Australians’ relationality with Islam and Muslims is more enduring and mutually respectful than most Australians and many Muslims realise, dating back centuries before British colonisation.

Yolngu and other Indigenous peoples in the north of Australia traded and engaged in cultural exchanges with Makassans from Indonesia. Islamic references identified in Yolngu mythology and ritual include “the ‘Dreaming’ creation figure, Walitha’walitha, also known as Allah.”

Outward signs of the Yolngu adopting aspects of Islam include spiritual chants, creative representations, names, and customs. Their engagement with Islam, whether through conversion or conversation, was

occurring but was interrupted by British colonisation.

Many Indigenous Australian women married Afghan cameleers who were brought to Australia in the 1800s to help traverse the country’s interior arid and desert regions. Others intermarried with early Muslim Australians, particularly Indian ‘hawkers’, also who came to Australia as ‘guest’ workers in the late 1800s.

Many Indigenous Australians are reconnecting with their Muslim heritage. Today, Islam is the only religion that is increasing among Indigenous Australians, while other categories of religion are unchanged or have declined according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics 2021 Census data.

Indigenous Australians and Muslims have a shared history of respectful relations, we share cultural and spiritual affinities, and have traditions of building peaceful coexistence through mutual agreements or covenants that govern relations with a higher power and other peoples.

Covenants are central to the Qur’an and Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (s). They define the Islamic view of human existence and coexistence and were the foundation of early Muslim diplomacy and peaceful relations with non-Muslims.

Makarrata is a Yolngu word for agreement-making and intended to advance the process of reconciliation. Through the Uluru Statement from the Heart, Indigenous Australians extended an invitation to the Australian people to reconcile by enshrining an Indigenous Voice to Parliament in the Australian Constitution and establish a Makarrata commission for the purpose of treaty-making and truth-telling.

There are widely held views that a ‘Yes’ vote would give the Parliament of Australia a direct and official Indigenous voice to establish a treaty and advance the process of reconciliation.

Distinguished Indigenous Australian academic Marcia Langton said in support of

the Voice: “we know from the evidence that what improves people’s lives is when they get a say. And that’s what this is about.”

Although recent polling shows over 80 percent of Indigenous Australians support a Yes vote, veteran Indigenous rights activist Gary Foley cautions that parliament will not deal with the Voice in good faith pointing to a long history of government failures in regard to Indigenous Australians’ rights and justice.

The Victoria University professor also raises concerns the Voice could undermine Indigenous people’s struggle for self-determination. Another Indigenous Australian activist, federal senator Lidia Thorpe calls for a treaty and truth-telling to be priorities over the Voice.

Drawing on our sense of compassion and justice, tradition of agreement-making for peaceful coexistence, and shared positive historical relations with Indigenous Australians, Muslim Australian support for the Voice is likely to be strong.

Whether the referendum is successful or not, Indigenous Australians will need the support of Muslims and other Australians to

maintain pressure on the government to approach the critical issue of reconciliation in good faith, with compassion, and a genuine commitment to truth-telling and treaty-making so that Indigenous Australians and the nation, as a whole, can begin to heal from the horrific treatment of its First Peoples.

Prof Halim Rane is a Professor of Islamic Studies at Griffith University, Queensland, and a fourth-generation Muslim Australian. His latest published research article is: Rane, Halim. 2023. “Higher Objectives (maqāṣid) of Covenants in Islam: A Content Analysis of ‘ahd and mīthāq in the Qurʾān” Religions 14, no. 4: 514.

A/Prof Debbie Bargallie is a Kamilaroi and Wonnarua Indigenous Australian Muslim. She is an Associate Professor, Centre for Social and Cultural Research and the Institute for Educational Research, Griffith University, Queensland.

Dr Troy Meston is a Gamilleroi Indigenous Australian Muslim. He is a Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Social and Cultural Research, Griffith University, Queensland.

The feathered chronicles: From moon wars to chicken fights

Waseem Ahmad

After the intense “Moon Wars,” a battle that divided communities over the age-old debate of moon-sighting, we now find ourselves in the midst of another captivating spectacle: the “Chicken Fights.”

This time, the stage is set for a heated dispute surrounding the halal slaughter of chickens, with varying opinions emerging from different schools of thought.

Notably, recent conflicting statements from Australia’s two leading Muslim organizations, AFIC and ANIC, have added fuel to the fire. It is essential to reassure readers that this article presents a neutral perspective, aiming to provide information without criticising or favouring any particular party.

As common Muslims, we often find ourselves in a state of confusion and bewilderment when it comes to navigating the intricacies of Islamic scholarship. The seemingly endless array of opinions can make even the most astute among us feel like a chicken with its head cut off!

As a common Muslim seeking guidance, this can be a challenging situation to navigate. However, fear not! We embark on a quest to unravel this complexity with wisdom, humility, and a sincere desire to uphold the principles of our faith.

Unity in diversity

Now, let’s establish a fundamental un-

derstanding of the unity that underlies the Islamic faith. Despite differing viewpoints, scholars from different schools of thought are united by their belief in the Oneness of Allah (Tawheed), the finality of Prophet Muhammad’s (s) message, and the Qur’an as the ultimate source of divine guidance. This recognition of our shared foundation serves as a unifying force amidst diverse interpretations.

The significance of halal slaughter

Let’s not forget that the matter of eating halal meat is extremely important for our faith and spiritual growth. The life of any living being is important, and halal slaughter gives us insight on how to do so in accordance with the guidance of Islam, while keeping the welfare of the animal in mind and in a manner that’s acceptable to the creator of life, Allah.

Diverse perspectives, informed choices

When confronted with conflicting statements on the topic of halal slaughter, it’s crucial to approach the issue with humor and an open mind. Seek knowledge and understanding from various sources, exploring the arguments and reasoning behind different opinions.

Engage in dialogue with scholars, experts, and fellow Muslims who hold differing views. And who knows, you might even be able to find some chicken jokes to lighten the mood!

Balancing tradition and ethics

The debate surrounding halal slaughter often revolves around striking a delicate balance between honoring traditional Islamic practices and addressing modern ethical con-

cerns. As common Muslims, we must navigate this terrain with humor, wisdom, and compassion.

By seeking an understanding that incorporates both the religious requirements of halal slaughter and contemporary animal welfare standards, we can uphold the principles of Islam while ensuring the humane treatment of animals.

Trusting your conscience

In this quest for clarity, trust in the compass of your own conscience, and of course, your sense of humor. Seek guidance through prayer, reflection, and sincere intentions. Embrace the responsibility of making choices that align with the teachings of the Qur’an and the principles of justice, mercy, and compassion.

Embracing harmony amidst differences

Navigating the “Chicken fights” can be a daunting task, but it’s also an opportunity for personal growth and deeper understanding. Remember that unity in diversity is at the core of our Islamic faith.

Embrace the richness of diverse perspectives, engaging in respectful dialogue and seeking knowledge. Strive to strike a harmonious balance between tradition and ethics, honoring the requirements of halal slaughter while upholding the welfare of animals. And of course, don’t forget to crack a few jokes along the way!

‘Uluru Statement from the Heart’ document created after a conference with 250 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders on May 26 2017, in Uluru, Northern Territories.

Waseem Ahmad is currently pursuing his Ph.D. at the Centre of Catalysis and Clean Energy and is based in Sydney.

Erdogan’s win should lead to reconciliation

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has won the second round of the presidential election in Turkey held on Sunday 28 May 2023 with 52.1% of the vote, while the opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu received 47.9% of the vote.

This is very similar to the results in the last election held in June 2018 when Erdogan received 52.6% of the votes competing against five other candidates on the ballot, however just in the very first round.

The difference, between the two candidates representing two competing coalitions namely Erdogan’s People’s Alliance and Kilicdaroglu’s National Alliance, is just two-million votes, meaning the country is polarised almost in half.

President Erdogan has been in power for almost 20 years, having repeatedly won 11 elections and during this process has become a cult-like figure, a seasoned and skilful politician able to engineer alliances with mass appeal through his simple messages delivered with effective oratory skills that is highly appealing to the majority of Turks.

In 2003, Erdogan inherited the Kemalist form of secularism that was stricter than that of most Western countries with the

role of Islam in public minimised, symbolised with the Islamic headscarf for women banned in universities, government institutions and parliament. Hijabi women had to either give up the hijab or go out of the country for higher education.

Erdogan gradually lifted those anti-Islamic restrictions resulting in Islam again playing a bigger role in public life leading to some extent gradual Islamisation of the Turkish society that proved popular with the masses, while at the same time leaving the secular constitution of the republic intact.

He also showed independence from Western hegemony in international affairs, embracing pan-Islamic causes, raised his voice against Islamophobia and oppression of Muslims globally, thereby generating admiration from Muslims at large inside and outside of Turkey.

However, as it is said, power corrupts, and as he consolidated power in himself and amongst only a few around him, he increasingly became more authoritarian, abandoning even those Islamic partners who helped him beat the Kemalist secularists in Turkey.

There have been serious accusations of corruption against him as well as evidence of oppression and intolerance of any serious opposition against him who have been demonised as “terrorists” and jailed or exiled.

Winning yet another 5-year term in leading Turkey provides him with a historic opportunity to unite the nation towards recon-

ciliation amongst all Turkish people with an inclusive agenda to govern all sections of the Turkish society with freedom for all and with true representative governance.

After winning the election, Erdogan talked about the “Century of Turkey” referring to the current year 2023, the 100year anniversary of the foundation of the Republic of Turkey after the fall of the Ottoman Empire and healing the wounds of the February earthquakes by rebuilding Turkey’s destroyed cities.

“We walked this road together. We walked day and night, and you gave this duty to us again. God willing, we will continue to build and rejuvenate the ‘century of Turkey’ together,” Erdogan declared.

Let the Turks unite together in good governance internally with full freedom and externally lead the Muslim World towards a better outcome for the Ummah.

Zia Ahmad is the Editor-in-Chief of the Australasian Muslim Times AMUST and is based in Sydney.

Readers comments

Moonsighting

Dr Shabbir Ahmed, coordinator of Moonsighting Australia went on a fact finding tour to Malaysia with other Imams.

All the Imams have agreed to regional moonsighting with Malaysia.

Dr Shabbir Ahmed decided to follow local moonsighting with naked eye only. He has not submitted his report on the Moonsighting Australia website about the trip and the reasons why he declined to follow regional Moonsighting.

Anonymous

Superpower

In this mundane world Israel is the only super power now. The whole world is scared to do anything concrete about the ongoing heinous acts committed by the Zionists ( not to be confused with Judaism). Todays news said they have demolished a school in occupied palestine funded by the European union. Just spineless protest by the union. No Comment from the USA or the puppet Arab regimes.Destruction of palestinian homes in the occupied territories is a regular event also killing of civilians including journalist. They just don’t care.

Netanyahu openly jokes about Biden the US president. Few years back I listened to a BBC commentary about disbursement of American loans and grants for foreign nations both military and other types. There is no restrictions about only country by the bipartisan congress and senate, About funding Israel both democrats and republican ask how high is the request, they will comply.

Only the American President Jimmy Carter had the guts to write about the real ugly acts committed by the zionists. He urged the American politicians of both parties to do the right thing and not to be intimidated bythe Powerful American Israeli association.

I will finish by writing about the arrogence of the leaders of the Zionists, I listened to a

documentary on SBS television, where Netanyahu said the difference between Muslims and Jews is the Muslims submit to God and we Jews argue with God. Another former leader of Shin Beth (the Israeli military intelligence) said Israel is Indestructible. Recently a Jewish Rabbi made similar comment inthe USA.

Dr Ibn Golam Mustafa

Re: Resilient Muslims in regional and remote Australia

Amazing trip and your dedication to Islam is, honestly, a tear jerker.

I love you and what you do my dear brother Dr Shahjahan Khan.

Mubarak

Re: Imran Khan’s ‘abduction’ illegal; Supreme Court orders release

Poor Imran his only sin is to attempt to reduce poverty and corruption in Pakistan and have Pakistani respect the Rule of law. The fat cats in the military and political institutions find these aspirations of him an existential threat for them. Just watch the pathetic interview of Maryam Nawaz ( daughter of the unashamedly corrupted ex-leader, Nawaz) who does not know the number of cars she own and the tax she paid. Pakistan would need a people revolution like that of Iran that did away with the despot, Shah. Obviously America and UK will only offer platitudes about the abduction of Imran as the current Pakistani establishment is beholden to them. How dare did Imran negotiate for some commodities with Putin (for the benefit of Pakistanis) without the white masters permission. In the land of the Pak the happenings just now are anything but Pak. Mal

Re: Ramadan 2023: A Revert’s Story Asallamu alaikum.

I’m sorry I didn’t see this post until now. I am also a revert. I’m now blessed to have support and my community, but still feel out of odds at times Alhamdulillah. Thank you for sharing your experience. In’Sha’Allah, may Allah subhana wa’tala make it easy on all reverts.

Ameen

Fiona Gee

Re: Australia Post’s Eid ad typos

As a very big company, the fact that they are trying to resonate with the Muslim community, the fact they recognise Eid and trying to reciprocate, shows that they tried and trying. Look at their intention of the effort. They have gone through a lot to put it up - concept, design, printing, installation, etc. They thought about the Muslim community and how happy they will be to see it. I am seriously impressed MashAllah. We all should be.

Md Rifat

News

- Community honours Bilal El-Hayek

- Modi’s role in Gujarat massacres

Boomerang

- Muslims and the Indigenous Voice

- turkey

- The hypocrisy of the War on Terror

Community

- A fun run for all ages

- AIMA’s Inaugural Conference

8 - 11

- Australia’s largest Quran Competition

Feature

- MEFF: Eid festival defies the odds with over 20,000 in attendance

Australia

14 - 15

- Unveiling the meaning of volunteerism

- From Migrant to Mayor: Bilal ElHayek’s message to young Australians

Lifestyle

- Rumi’s timeless wisdom

- How to surrender to Allah

Ummah

16 - 17

18 - 19

- Volunteering for sustained change

- India uses G20 for Kashmir colonisation

Education

20 - 21

- Dangers of bullying and cyberbullying

- Jesus and his timeless wisdom

Business 22

-Federal budget back in black

- Islamic perspective on planning

Social

- Top 5 Memes - Ramadan: HS student’s perspective

Disclaimer

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

AMUST Team

Editor-in-Chief: Zia Ahmad

Managing Editor: Mobinah Ahmad

Graphic Designer: Rubinah Ahmad

Multimedia Journalist: Mehar Ahmad

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

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.

Contact AMUST

Post: PO Box 111, Bonnyrigg (Sydney), NSW 2177 Australia.

Email: info@amust.com.au

Web: www.amust.com.au

Phone: (02) 9158 3020

Facebook: @amustnews

Instagram: @amustnews

Twitter: @amustnews

‘Moments In Waiting’: A project worth waiting for

John Mahoney

Visiting the recent Multicultural Eid Festival and Fair (MEFF) at the Fairfield Showground, I was privileged to meet the man who is the driving force behind the Powerhouse Parramatta Museum’s ‘Moments In Waiting’ project which AMUST featured online earlier this year and in its February 2023 print edition: An exclusive conversation with Khaled Sabsabi.

A resident of southwest Sydney, Khaled Sabsabi is a Lebanese-Australian Muslim who fled his country of birth in the late 1970s with his family after they were displaced by the civil war.

He has a passion and commitment to bring under-represented stories from our community to light and share them with the broader Australian community.

The ‘Moments In Waiting’ project provides the multiple award-winning visual artist with the ideal medium to do this as it will focus on the sacred and spiritual stories behind rare and holy items that Australian Muslim families across Greater Sydney have in their possession.

Unearthing these unique objects keeps their story alive, therefore contributing to cultural knowledge as well as the broader fabric of our modern society.

“Islam continues to play such an important role in our region, from as far back as the Makassar fishermen visiting the coast of northern Australia and also the Cameleers,” Khaled told AMUST.

“A project like this will help define what Islam is in Australia and provide more visibility for Islam in our broader society.”

Under construction in the Parramatta CBD and due to open in 2025, Powerhouse

Parramatta is expected to welcome two million visitors in its first 12 months of operation so the exposure for the ‘Moments In Waiting’ project will be massive.

“Powerhouse Parramatta approached me last year with this project in mind and this is the first project that the new museum will do be doing, which is fantastic for the Muslim community,” Khaled said.

“I’ve worked closely with Powerhouse Parramatta director Lisa Havilah in the past with regard to other initiatives and she is very supportive of this project.”

‘Moments In Waiting’ will see Sabsabi and his team visit the homes of members of the Muslim community who have sacred artifacts and objects in their possession and share the stories associated with them on film.

“These items, which may be coins, garments, bound volumes (of the Qur’an)

and other artifacts, all have a story behind them….it could be an object, for example, passed down to you from your great-grandmother or something that your grandfather’s sheikh has gifted to him so it is now in your family,” Khaled explained.

“There are obviously some extraordinary items out there in our community being kept by Muslim families across Greater Sydney which have a deep spiritual meaning and we hope to keep these stories alive.”

“Obviously, there will be some ‘wow’ items such as manuscripts dating back several hundred years and the wider we are able to spread the message of what we are about and what we are looking for, the greater the response will be.”

As mentioned at the commencement of this article, Khaled promoted the ‘Moments In Waiting’ project at the recent Multicultural Eid Festival and Fair (MEFF) at the Fair-

field Showground and to say that he was encouraged by the response he received from visitors to his display would be a massive understatement.

“It was an amazing experience….I had tears in my eyes listening to some of the stories,” he recalled.

“I felt really humbled that people trusted me and gave me such generous feedback.”

“This is a community that has been hurting for a long time and some healing is still needed – hopefully, a project like this puts us in the conversation.”

The Lebanese Muslim Association (LMA) has announced its support of the initiative, stating recently on social media that it “sees tremendous merit in the project, which will allow people from various backgrounds to learn about our faith as well as its art and its history.”

Khaled says that he is “delighted” by the interest that the LMA has shown in the project.

“The LMA is very dear to me as I’ve had uncles who’ve served on its board in the past.”

“It is Australia’s oldest Islamic organisation dating back more than 60 years; it’s fantastic that they are embracing the project and I look forward to them being part of it in its many phases.”

Sabsabi also hopes to collaborate with local Muslim radio stations to raise further awareness about the project.

“I am definitely looking at some radio engagement with the Voice Of Islam….. hopefully, Q & A’s, some talkback and the harvesting of stories.”

If you or someone you know has a story about an item they would like to share, please email: momentsinwaiting@maas. museum

John Mahoney is a Content Writer with over 30 years experience and is based in Sydney, Australia.

Khaled Sabsabi (centre) flanked by OBA Cabramatta Mosque vice president Salim Allouche (left) and this writer (right) at MEFF 2023.

The hypocrisy and destruction of the War on Terror

Bilal Cleland

Just 20 years ago hundreds of thousands of Australians demonstrated against the impending invasion of Iraq, part of the War on Terror.

Across the world, many millions demonstrated, vainly attempting to prevent the disaster.

Mass murder ensued.

Our rulers emphasised the importance of bringing democracy to the oppressed people of Iraq.

The result was a regime as wedded to democracy and human rights as that of Saddam but more compliant with the imperial powers.

Millions died, Abu Ghraib established the US reputation for barbarism, Saddam was hanged after a public trial and the country was handed to the Shia majority, replacing the Sunni ruling establishment imposed after the Sykes-Picot plot and its aftermath.

Human rights downgraded

Here in Australia, under the Howard LNP government, our adherence to human rights was emphasised by the establishment of offshore concentration camps for asylum seekers fleeing conflicts in which we were involved.

Lies about “children overboard,” were

just part of the vilification aimed at Muslim asylum seekers, scum who would apparently drown their own children in their efforts to get onto the Australian welfare system.

The dreadful reputation this has given Australia has not been eradicated even with the fall of the Morrison LNP government.

“The former Coalition government ratified the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (OPCAT) in late 2017, under then attorney-general George Brandis, just months after Australia was elected to serve on the UN’s Human Rights Council.”

Five years later it has not been implemented.

We are about to be placed on a list of countries which have broken a fundamental obligation to the UN human rights treaty.

“Australia would be the first OECD nation on this list, which features 14 countries including Nauru, Nigeria, South Sudan and the Philippines. … The US has also not signed OPCAT.” [Saturday Paper, 20 May 2023]

The War on Terror, supposedly in defence of democracy and human rights, delivered invasions, Guantanamo Bay torture and internment, Abu Ghraib torture and rape, the Taliban in control of Afghanistan, the rise of Daesh out of Iraq and into Syria, years of vilification of the Muslim communities in the West as well as the Middle East and the incitement of the white supremacists to attacks like those in Christchurch NZ.

The terrible cost

In its 2023 report How Death Outlives War , Brown university points out that: “In addition to the many, many people who have died in combat during the post-9/11 wars, more still have died in these same war zones from the indirect, reverberating effects of war.”

“There are many reverberating consequences of the post-9/11 wars that have led to indirect deaths, and they often overlap, but four underappreciated primary ones that this study delineates are:

• Economic collapse, loss of livelihood, and food insecurity;

• Destruction of public services and health

Powerful thought-provoking insights of King Charles on Islam and its civilisation

Charles III has been crowned King of the UK and Australia. Although a Christian, he’s deeply interested in other religions.

Pointedly, when he gave his coronation affirmation as Defender of the Faith, rather than meaning exclusively the Church, he pledged to “seek to foster an environment in which people of all faiths may live freely.”

Are you also aware of his very positive views about Islam?

Professor Kamal Hassan’s 2016 article shines light on this side of Charles:

“As an internationally renowned member of the British elite, Charles’ objective views about Islam and its civilization are of great importance … As an environmentalist and propagator of international humanitarianism, Charles delivered two very important addresses at Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies in 1993 and 2010.”

“What he said about Islam and Islamic civilization, and their relevance to our troubled world, deserves to be known worldwide as it’s extremely rare for prominent Western leaders to have such knowledge and positive opinions about the West’s debt to the scientific contributions of Islamic civilization.”

“Muslim Spain, according to Charles (1993), wasn’t just preserver of Greek learning and contributor to emergence of the Renaissance, it offered its own original contributions in many fields of scientific knowledge, which benefited Europeans. Charles described how the intellectual and scientific prominence of Muslim Spain made Islamic culture ‘part of Europe for so long’ and concluded … ‘it helped create modern Europe.’”

“He admitted that ‘Islam can teach us a way of understanding and living in the world’ because it preserves ‘an integral view of the universe,’ which unites religion and science, man and nature and mind and matter. Not many Western leaders would be so humble and honest to make such statement [as]:

‘Islam can teach us today a way of under-

standing and living, which Christianity itself is poorer for having lost. Islam … refuses to separate man and nature, religion and science, mind and matter, and preserved a metaphysical and unified view of ourselves and the world around us.’”

“The Prince expressed a critical view of the materialistic spirit and disintegrative tendency of Western natural sciences: ‘we study our world in order to manipulate and dominate it, turning harmony and beauty into disequilibrium and chaos.’”

“He reiterated the need for contemporary Western civilization, which has lost a balanced perspective and spiritual vision of the world and become more exploitative, to ‘relearn from Islam’ and to benefit from ‘the ways of thought in Islam’ in searching for the lost metaphysical dimension of life in Western societies.”

“His 2010 speech, ‘Islam and the Environment … is a profound critique of the secular and materialistic worldview of the modern West which caused severe global environmental crises. Negative consequences of the comprehensive industrialization of life … result from the secular worldviews and mechanistic thinking, which are contrary to Islamic teachings.”

Questioning the sustainability of collusion between the sciences and economic materialism, Charles argued that, in light of

the environmental crisis, a different model must be found.

Locating the roots of the problem in a ‘deep, inner crisis of the soul,’ he emphasized the way in which religious communities can offer long-term solutions by returning to spiritual and practical values.

Charles remarked that the whole Judeo-Christian concept of man dominating in this world is different from the Islamic concept, which sees man as earth’s steward. Moshe Terdiman, observed, “That is why Charles, who has been well-known for his Islamic tendencies, called people worldwide to follow Islam’s green way to save the environment.”

Last year as Ramadan began, Charles shared this greeting on Instagram:

“The generosity of spirit and kind-hearted hospitality of Muslims does not cease to astound me and I’m sure as we enter more uncertain times, with many now struggling to cope with increasing challenges, the Muslim community will again be a source of immense charitable giving this Ramadan. There is much we can all learn from the spirit of Ramadan.”

infrastructure;

• Environmental contamination; and

• Reverberating trauma and violence.”

Post 9/11 wars have cost 4.5 to 4.6 million deaths and terrible child malnutrition statistics in Afghanistan, Iraq, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen, estimated at 7.6 million.

Particularly shocking is the conclusion: “The post-9/11 wars have occurred in countries whose populations are largely Black and brown, and are often waged by countries with histories of white supremacism and Islamophobia.” [Costs of War files Brown University, 15 May 2023]

When historians look back on this period in our history, it will be seen, along with such developments as AUKUS and the “China Threat,” as the last gasps of the declining old imperial powers of the UK and the US.

Australia, under its conservative rule, still seeking the protection of colonial masters but compliant to perhaps the wrong ones, will be but a sad footnote.

The Indigenous Voice to Parliament is a late attempt to redress past abuse but the fact that it is so challenged by the right-wing reactionary rump could even deny Australia that small victory over its past and its compliance with present evil.

Bilal Cleland is a keen reader, a prolific writer and a regular columnist of AMUST based in Melbourne.

Bedouin Man in Dressed Loose Garments

Fazlul Huq

Bearded Bedouin man dressed in loose garments hued in white is seen to have turban like cover on the head colored in pink and red.

As he sits at ease on the desert sands with the legs bent at the knees.

When he is found to cook his food and boil water in the kettle on makeshift oven built with rocks in body of the sands with twigs, branches being used as the fuels.

And not far from there you have the rock wall made into high and low with multiple signs of weathering caused by the desert wind, hail and shine and blast of the sands.

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.

Brown University Report on Costs of

Dr Daud Batchelor

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.

Prince Charles and Camilla visit Al-Azhar Mosque, accompanied by Grand Imam Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb, during their Middle Eastern tour; Cairo, 18 November 2021

CresWalk2023: A fun run for all ages

Dr Mustafa Ally OAM

On a delightfully sunny Sunday morning, on 21 May 2023, over 500 people participated in the QMI CresWalk2023, a fun run event held in Queensland at the Berrinba Wetlands Park in Browns Plains. The event, initiated by Crescents of Brisbane Inc in 2004, was organized this year in association with Queensland Muslims Inc (QMI).

“CresWalk2023 brings together people from different backgrounds and cultures to enjoy a healthy and fun activity, one in which age and fitness levels pose no barriers,” said Creswalk organizing team member, Hafizah Suleman.

The participants walked, jogged, ran, and pushed prams across a 5km circuit that took in some amazing scenery of native flora and fauna and great views from the bridges as they passed over them. The event was open to all ages, ranging from babies in prams to octogenarians.

One participant said of the event: “Creswalk is such a unique experience. I don’t think there is one like this anywhere else in the country where Muslim and non-Muslim families and friends can walk, talk and meet together in a friendly and sometimes competitive event.”

Commenting on the organization of CresWalk, another said: “The Creswalk was amazing, and the organisation was fantastic. I just wanted to say Masha-Allah it was awesome. JazakAllah for always bringing the

community together. We really had a blast today. And my girls don’t ever go out and they came along today so that was a bonus.”

Trophies were awarded to the winners in different age categories. The oldest finisher, at 81 years and 6 months, was Suleman Sabdia, who received a warm applause from the crowd. The Imam’s Challenge, a friendly competition among the local imams, was won by Imam Mohammed Zohair Abdul-Rahman, who completed the course in a very creditable time of 24.42. Rashide Deen was first past the post in a blistering time of 18.48 minutes, and brother and sister, Uzair and Nabeeha Rahman took home the prizes

Sabsabi book launched in style

in the 11 to 15 age category. Winners in the 75+ male and female groups were Fadlullah Wilmot and Zulikha Jean. Fastest pram pushers were Ahmed Hassan and Aysha AlMaani.

The Haji Ebrahimbhai Patel Crescents of Brisbane Special Achievement Award was presented to Kemal Omar, a founding member of CresWalk, in recognition for his activism and contribution to the Muslim community over many decades.

The success of the event is best summed up in the words of 4-year -old Sabreen: “Dad, I want to attend CresWalk every year.”

At the end of the run everyone was treated

to the CresWalk Gourmet Burger, a Julie Hatia creation comprising her secret herbs and spices. There were also loads of physical activities for the young ones, including a jumping castle, ball games and races.

Despite tired bodies and aching feet, many were already looking forward to CresWalk2024, insha’Allah.

Dr Mustafa Ally OAM is the co-founder and Chair of Australian Muslim Advocacy Network (AMAN) , foundation member of Queensland Muslim Inc. (QMI), and founder and former Editor-in-Chief of Crescents Community News (CCN).

Islamophobia Register Australia nominated for 2023 ZEST Awards

Saturday 27 May saw the launch of Sabsabi’s latest book: “Khaled Sabsabi: A Collection of Essays on the Artist and his work” at the Campbelltown Arts Centre by Powerhouse Parramatta’s highly respected director Lisa Havilah.

According to Imogen Charge, the online editor of Artist Profile Magazine, the event was a huge success.

“There was a very healthy crowd in attendance to meet Khaled, enjoy a lovely morning tea, ask questions of the panel which included art centre curators and other experts about the importance of his work –and of course, have their copies of the book signed,” Imogen told AMUST.

After fleeing Lebanon in the late 1970s with his family after they were displaced by the civil war, Khaled grew up in southwest

Over the past three decades, the proud Muslim has worked as a community cultural practitioner and educator, in addition to his visual arts roles.

Currently, Khaled is the driving force behind the Powerhouse Parramatta Museum’s exciting ‘Moments In Waiting’ Project, where he will be visiting the homes of members of the Muslim community across Greater Sydney and filming interviews with them about sacred artifacts and other items they have in their possession that have been handed down to them over time….many centuries, in some instances.

If you were unable to attend the launch but would like to purchase a copy of the book, kindly email Bandicoot Publishing consignment co-ordinator: adean@bandicootp.com.au

This month, the Islamophobia Register Australia was nominated for the 2023 ZEST awards in the category of ‘Outstanding Project: Building Stronger Inclusive Communities’. The ZEST awards showcase and recognise the innovative work of the community sector across Western Sydney.

Although the Register is an Australia-wide service, we took root in Western Sydney, many of the victims of abuse who report to the Register hail from Western Sydney where it has a big presence there – and that presence has certainly been felt! This would not have been possible without the passion, commitment and genuine care for this cause shown by the Register staff and Board. It is wonderful that the

importance of the Register’s work is being recognised in this way by the broader community.

The Register receives the highest number of incident reports from New South Wales, and from within NSW particularly from Western Sydney (which is not surprising given the large Muslim population in Western Sydney). This is followed by Victoria, and then Queensland.

Islamophobia Register Australia looks forward to continuing our activities in Western Sydney and Greater Sydney and of course other cities and states across Australia.

The 2023 ZEST Awards will be held on Friday 23 June 2023 at ACCOR Stadium in Sydney Olympic Park.

Sharara Attai is a human rights lawyer who has practised refugee law for 8 years. She is currently the Executive Director of the Islamophobia Register Australia. Sharara is also a picture book author, with her debut title ‘Benji the Refugee’ to be released in 2023.

John Mahoney Sydney.

Sharara Attai

Muslim doctors address contemporary issues in healthcare at inaugural conference

Continued from page 1

He further added, “you have traveled from near and far to attend this conference and it is so reassuring to see brothers and sisters coming from all states and towns of Australia as well as from New Zealand.”

The theme of the conference was “The Past, Present and Future of Healthcare where a number overseas and local speakers from various medical backgrounds presented on medicine and faith, history of Islamic medicine and surgery, organ donation, digital health management and community health and wellbeing.

For details on speakers and their topics please read:

AIMA Conference was sponsored by:

• Platinum: Hejaz, MATW Project, Crystal Radiology, Focus Radiology.

• Gold: Umar Flynn, AMUST (Media Partner).

• Silver: Wavelength, DHM Pathology, Avant, Bayer, MCCA, AspenMedical, MedTree, Pfizer.

At the Gala dinner on Sat night, vice president of AIMA, Dr Habib Bhurawala introduced the young Mayor of Canterbury Bankstown Council, Bilal El Hayek who was elected just a couple of days before and was attending his first community event as a mayor.

While congratulating the organisers for attracting such a large number of delegates, Bilal said, “today we have the first Muslim doctors national conference. This is huge. This shows how much we have come a long way from where we were five years ago. I mean, if you asked me five or ten years ago that I am going to address 300 Muslim doctors? There’s no way in the world this was going to happen.”

He further added, “so our community has come a long, long way. We’re very, very proud of this conference. Thank you to the organising committee for putting in a great conference. Of course, and also I pay tribute to all the doctors especially the ones that helped us through COVID. Obviously was a very tough time.We honour all those unsung heroes of that period. So thank you for doing what he did at that time.”

The NSW Minister for Industrial Relations, Sophie Cotsis said that she was honoured to be addressing the medical professionals at the inaugural national conference of AIMA.

“From the bottom of my heart I want to express a huge, huge gratitude to all of you because I know that every person that you spoke to, every person that you helped, made a huge difference within our community and the communities that you come from across Australia. Dr Habib was saying to me, many of you were from Tasmania, Western Australia, from across our great nation, you know, it must be the sense of pride, you know, for all of you to be able to come together and the work that you do with the

Red Cross for blood donation and sharing of information,” Ms Cotsis said. She further added, “we need to bring down the number of injuries, particularly people who work in construction. And we need to get that message across that you as trusted health professionals, are able to convey that message. I’m going to put forward to your council that I’d like to organise a roundtable, whether it’s at Parliament House or, you know, maybe around that hear in Bankstown or further south west and seek your feedback.”

“I am seeing a lot of our young people in entering the medical profession, young women coming through as well and seeing the young our young people who are third or fourth generation who speak other languages as well working as medical professionals is so important, particularly serving our non-English speaking migrant community. So you play a very, very important role. I’m very honoured to stand before you,” she concluded.

Jihad Dib, Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister for Youth Jus-

tice through a video message expressed his great joy in addressing Muslim doctors.

“I’m incredibly proud to be able to say there’s an Islamic association here of medical professionals, Muslim doctors and Australians, Mr Dib said.

He further added, “I’m sure that your parents are very, very proud of you as mine would have been if I had become a doctor. Thank you really for making sure that people are vaccinated and helpful and wise.”

Before the conference dinner, three medical doctors Dr Suleman Qurashi, Dr Suhana Mohdm and Dr Sharif Al Ghazal recounted “My Journey”, their life stories and experiences while practicing their medical profession.

Dr Ghazal of Syrian origin residing and practicing in UK talked about his journey in becoming a plastic surgeon and helped found the British Islamic Medical Association. He is currently leading the history of Islamic medicine project for the Federation of Islamic Medical Associations (FIMA).

Dr Suhana Mohdm from Adelaide described with great passion her experiences with her 98 year old patient on whom she made impression as her doctor and a hijabi women.

Dr Suleman Qurashi described his journey from violence prone Kashmir as a teenager to Australia and despite discouragement, showed great resilience in getting to study medicine and now practicing as an orthopaedic surgeon in Sydney.

The conference concluded with further sessions on Sunday with additional presentations and a description of AIMA’s remarkable journey so far and further planning and programs in future.

Australia’s largest Ramadan Quran Competition awards excellence in reading and recitation

Over the last eight years, Al Tadhkirah Institute (ATI) has hosted Australia’s largest Ramadan Quran Competition. The event takes place every year in the month of Ramadan in all states of Australia. The foremost goal behind the event is teaching and instilling a love for the Quran, especially during the Holy month of Ramadan. This year’s Ramadan Quran Competition was a massive success and the competition was held on Saturday 25 March 2023 at

Masjid St Marys. More than 280 participants from all across Sydney participated in this competition with 25 Institutes, 20 Mosques and 15 prominent and respected Sheikhs and Judges from different parts of the state.

The program was organized and supported by Islamic Practice and Dawah Circle (IPDC). The event was sponsored by Human Appeal Australia, Human Initiative Sadaqa Welfare Fund, and MCCA Finance. Other sponsors included Assurance Home Builders, Rainbow Childcare Centre, Tax Solutions, ICFAL, Islami Barta, Western Grammar School and Australian Islamic College of Sydney.

The Prize Giving Ceremony was another successful event. It was held on Saturday 8

April 2023 at the Australian Islamic College of Sydney (AICS) Hall. Attendees included Sheikh Dr Rafiqul Islam, Central President, Islamic Practice and Dawah Circle, Qari Aly Sayed Aljndey, Mr Stephen Kamper, Minister for Small Businesses, Sports, Property & Multiculturalism, Mr Kazi Khalequzzaman Ali OAM and Mr Edmond Atalla, Member for Mount Druitt.

There were over 500 attendees in the Prize Giving Ceremony while the guests delivered their speeches in between the announcements of the winners! All the winners received several amount of cash prizes, gift, trophy, medals, certificates and food packages.

Al Tadhkirah Institute is one of the best Quranic Institutes in Australia. It is a pro-

ject of Islamic Practice and Dawah Circle, which is one of Australia’s leading Islamic organisations.

Al Tadhkirah Institute operates in all six states of Australia including New South Wales, Victoria, Australian Capital Territory, Queensland, Western Australia, and South Australia.

With three campuses in Sydney based in North St Marys, Lakemba, and Minto; it focus on giving the focus on Ramadan Quran Competition in every month of Ramadan and Seerah Quiz Competition in the month of Rabiul Awal.

Faisal Ashraf is the Head Admin of Al Tadhkirah Institute (ATI) - A project of Islamic Practice and Dawah Circle Inc. (IPDC) and is based in Sydney, Australia.

Faisal Ashraf

Governor acknowledges 500 years of Muslim links with Australia

Fadlullah Wilmot

The Governor of Queensland, Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM was gracious enough to accept an invitation to an Iftar dinner last Ramadan by Queensland Muslims Inc at Academy Alive where she spoke warmly of the Muslim Community in Queensland.

“I was honoured and humbled to receive the invitation to join you during Ramadan for this special Iftar, and I thank Queensland Muslims Incorporated for the warm welcome you have extended to me.

It’s wonderful to be here at the Academy Alive Community Centre. This one-of-a-kind facility is unique in Queensland and is a fine example of what can be achieved through the vision and foresight of the Muslim community.

The sacred rituals of Ramadan such as

Iftar and Taraweeh are, of course, fundamental to Muslims but they also represent an excellent annual opportunity for Brisbane’s Muslims to reach out to the broader community and challenge some of the myths and misconceptions about Islam and Muslim ways of life.

The programs and services offered here at Academy Alive and high-profile events such as tonight’s Iftar are an important part of that process of public education. They remind us that the people of our State trace their origins to many different countries, speak many different languages, and have many different customs and beliefs.

They also help remind us that Muslims have been part of Australian history for a very long time. Indonesian fishermen were collecting trepang in our northern waters at least 500 years ago; Muslim cameleers helped create the legend of the Outback 200 years ago; and Brisbane has had its own mosque for over 110 years.

In making more Queenslanders aware of

this longstanding contribution to Australia, the Muslim community today is helping to create a more inclusive, cohesive and compassionate society. As Governor, I am grateful for that.

Thank you again for your warm welcome this evening, for your ongoing commitment and generous service to the community, and for the contribution you continue to make to our State.”

Fadlullah Wilmot formerly served at universities in Indonesia, Malaysia and Australia but after the tsunami in Aceh became involved in the humanitarian and development sector. He has worked in Indonesia, Malaysia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Solomon Islands, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Jordan, Lebanon, Sudan, Somalia, Afghanistan and Iraq.

Infotainment for seniors at Eid-Milan 2023

South Asian Muslim Association of Australia (SAMAA) held Eid Milan in Sydney on Saturday 29 April 2023 at Berala Community Centre to bring together community elders to celebrate the annual Eid-ul-Fitr festival.

The main hall was filled with the invited guests, large number of seniors, carers, volunteers and supporters of SAMAA.

The programme commenced with the recitation of a melodious Naat, poetry in praise of Prophet Mohammad (s), by popular Sydney singer Shagufta Zia.

During first half of the event, representatives from Gallipoli Home held a detailed information session on various aspects of aged care services. SAMAA has signed a MoU with Gallipoli Home, the Muslim aged care provider who have built a grand residential aged care facility in Auburn.

Two videos were screened showcasing the facilities at their 102 bed aged care home.

Mr Faraz Nomani, co-founder of Imbuity, a full service digital marketing and brand strategy agency and adviser to Gallipoli Home, spoke on Islamic prespective of caring for elderly parents while quoting from the Quran.

Dr Abdur Rahman Asarogulu, Chair of the board of directors of Gallipoli Home during his address emphasised that compassion,

kindness, and respect for the seniors and their families from all cultural backgrounds of Islamic faith is observed at this facility.

“We value the emotional, spiritual, and physical health of our elders, to help them live healthier and happier lives by actively ensuring their individual needs are met,” Dr Asarogulu said.

Mr Zahid Jamil observed that there was reluctance among seniors and their families to avail aged care services which was causing suffering to the seniors. He appealed to the community to reach out to SAMAA for more information.

Upon his request, Dr Asorgulu explained various options of payment for accessing the rooms at Gallipoli Home. The fees are subject to means testing and a financial planner can help seniors and their families in advising for most suitable options.

The HomeCare representative of Gal-

lipoli Home Mrs Muge Hasib highlighted the services which seniors can avail while living in their own homes. There are four levels of services which are determined by the aged care assessment team. The fees are again subject to means testing.

Ms Lynda Voltz MP, State Member for Auburn highly appreciated SAMAA’s efforts in caring for the community seniors. She advised seniors to plan for their aged care needs before it is too late.

There are waiting times for accessing various services and aged care facilities and therefore, it is important that seniors register with the government agencies well in advance.

Aged care assessment is a long process and it may take several months before the care commences.

Ms Julia Finn MP, State Member for Granville applauded SAMAA’s work over

the years saying she was always impressed every time she attended a SAMAA event.

Ms Mecki Ansari MC for the event requested the community to support SAMAA without which SAMAA cannot reach the goals of offering best of services to our elders.

“Our buzurg deserve best of treatment and services in these golden years of their life as they have reached here after working very hard throughout their lives and sacrificing a lot to raise their children and families,” she said.

During the second half of the program, Sydney Singers Mr Adil Siddiqui and Ms Shagufta Zia entertained the audience with thrilling performances. Adil sang the popular bollywood numbers of 1960s, 70s and 80s which took seniors to the younger years evoking nostalgia and happiness.

Ms Shagufta Zia sang a few Pakistani songs which were composed by herself as well as the very popular spiritual Sufi qawwali Dama Dam Mast Qalandar.

Mr Fasihuddin khan, MC applauded the two singers as well as SAMAA team and volunteers for delivering a highly entertaining event.

Donations to SAMAA are tax deductible and with end of financial year approaching, this is a good time to donate and get tax deduction.

‘Family for Australia’s forgotten’: Belmore Boys join Brothers in Need

Dean Mousad inside a nursing home.

Belmore Boys High School joined Brothers in Need, a Muslim not-forprofit organisation based in Australia, in visiting the residents of Gallipoli Nursing Home in Auburn in May.

Part of our mission is that we try to act as, “A family for Australia’s forgotten”. I’ve always loved that part of our mission, and try to remember it as much as I can do whilst working and volunteering for Brothers in Need.

I really enjoyed meeting the students from Belmore Boys High School. They were thoughtful and polite. I think that they enjoyed the visit, and it was eye-opening for them to see residents from our community

“We don’t often think of nursing homes or the elderly community…being there reminds me of my parents, who have always been so kind to me, and where I myself may end up. Life really is short, isn’t it?” says Dahlia, a staff member.

She further added, “The door is always open to do good….we should encourage our youth to never hesitate to do a good deed.”

Enquiries for school students can be directed to 1300-007-433 or info@brothersinneed.org.au.

More information about the work of Brothers in Need can be found at: brothersinneed.org.au

Dean Mousad is the Co-founder/Managing Director of Brothers in Need, Co-founder/Treasurer of Project Quran, a Teacher/Mentor at Alfirdaus College and a registered Counsellor with the Australian Counselling Association.

AMUST Media

MEFF: Eid festival defies the odds

Continued from page 1

Newly elected Member for Bankstown

Hon Jihad Dib, Minister for Customer Service, Minister for Emergency Services and Minister for Youth Justice was the Chief Guest at MEFF 2023 who glowingly spoke about the highly successful and long track record of MEFF.

“Events like this are important especially when it comes to promoting diversity and understanding, and acceptance of one another. For over 30 years, the MEFF festival has played that part really importantly and I’ve been here a number of times – what we see here is an understanding of what modern Australia is. People come to share celebrations, get to understand one another and get to understand what it is that makes us a better country. We’re a better country when everybody works together, when everybody understands one another and when everybody celebrates each others things,” Jihad Dib said.

He later added, “What a great Sunday, the weather was beautiful and I joined over 25,000 others at the 38th Multicultural Eid Festival & Fair MEFF to mark the end of Ramadan. In my speech, I reaffirmed my commitment to be a voice that celebrates the richness of our diversity.

“Lots of fun, food and games were enjoyed by all little and big kids! Looking forward to next year’s Festival already,” Mr Dib concluded.

The local federal member Dai Le MP for the seat of Fowler while addressing from the main stage was highly excited to experience the diversity of attendees at the festival and its multicultural cuisine and cultural programs.

“It was great to be celebrating another cultural event at the Fairfield City Showground today. I was honoured to take part in the Multicultural Eid Festival & Fair, which was marking its 38 years celebrations. Here in our great Cultural Diversity of Fairfield Council, the beating heart of multicultural Australia, this multicultural Eid festival and fair wouldn’t have happened without the vision and leadership of the late Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad OAM, a Muslim community leader who I believe wanted to share his vision and cul tural events to the rest of the community,” Ms Dai Le later said.

She further add

From left: Minister Jihad Dib, Dai Le MP, Mayor Frank Carbone, Zia Ahmad and Mehar Ahmad.

Ghanian Drumming.

Three Rivers Ensemble performing nasheeds.

Photo by CvThanh

Paella. Photo by @fabfoodandtravel

Photo by @fabfoodandtravel

with over 20,000 in attendance

cultural Eid Festival & Fair MEFF has been a local institution for the last 38 years. It was a pleasure to acknowledge and celebrate its incredible contribution to our community and to multiculturalism in general.”

She further added, “It’s a huge undertaking to organise something of this scale even once let alone year after year for longer than l’ve been alive! Well done to the organisers, sponsors and many volunteers for bringing it together!”

Newly elected state MP for the seat of Leppington Nathan Hagarty said, “Great to see blue skies return for the 38th annual Multicultural Eid Festival & Fair this afternoon. It’s even better when my parliamentary colleagues @jihaddib_mp and @ ckaliyanda are also there to join in the celebration!”

MEFF was initiated by Islamic Foundation for Education (IFEW) back in 1985 with the Australasian Muslim Times (AMUST) as a long time media partner since 1991.

MEFF 2023 is sponsored by Platinum

ed, “Cultural activities such as today’s event is multiculturalism at its best. When we are able to celebrate a diversity and different religious festivals in harmony and unity. Eid Mubarak to the Islamic Community,” she further added.

The Mayor of Fairfield Council, Mr Frank Carbone, during his address from the stage at the Main Ceremony highlighted Sydney’s best undercover facilities at the Fairfield Showground that enabled MEFF to be held in spite of rainy weather predictions and assured of the Council’s support for MEFF 2024.

Charishma Kaliyanda, newly elected MP for the state seat of Liverpool said, “The Multi-

Sponsor: Human Appeal Australia and Gold Sponsors: Powerhouse Parramatta, SBS and Remitly. Funding for this project has been provided by the NSW Government through Multicultural NSW.

In addition to the prediction of rain, MEFF 2023 was constrained with its President, Hanif Bismi together with a number of key members of the organising committee sick with COVID-19. However the other team members showed great resilience in compensating for them and delivered a highly successful event enjoyed and appreciated by the community at large as evidenced by the following testimonials.

Photos by Rana Ahmad.

Mayor Ahmad.

Camel rides.

Politicians, community members and the MEFF Team.

Flocking to independent faith based education

Acts of kindness Unveiling the meaning of volunteerism

Despite the soaring cost of living, Australian families are flocking to independent faith based schools that are in line with their ethos, values, beliefs and religious identity.

Earlier in the school year, ABC reported a spike in the number of parents that are choosing to exit the public education system despite cost-of-living pressures.

ABC reported, “There are now more than 1.4 million Australian students or 35.6 per cent at private schools and about 2.6 million pupils at government schools. Parents are increasingly opting for faith-based independent schools. Parents often cite values as a reason for making the switch.” (1)

This year Islamic schools in Victoria have reported receiving an unprecedented number of enrolment applications. Al Siraat College alone have this year received over 500 new enrolment applications.

“Although we’d love to, it’s just not within our capacity to be able to accept every child. We really need practical ways to increase our capacity in the short term,” one staff member explained.

The Age reported similar findings, “Independent Schools Victoria said enrolment growth was driven by low-fee independent schools, Islamic schools, and those in growth areas such as Melbourne’s outer north and between Ballarat and Bacchus Marsh. Close to 60 per cent of enrolment growth was at low-fee independent schools, which charge less than $7500 a year.” (2)

We interviewed the president of the Islamic Schools Association of Australia (ISAA), Mr Abdullah Khan, to get his perspective:

Islamic schools in Australia are witnessing a notable upsurge in enrolments, driven by an unprecedented demand. However, stringent enrolment caps imposed by local councils have become a major obstacle, leading to the rejection of hundreds of prospective students annually. Over the past decade, student numbers in Islamic schools have nearly doubled, highlighting the pressing need for expansion to cater to the community’s growing requirements. The demand for Islamic schools remains consistently high, resulting in extensive waiting lists that continue to lengthen over time. Families are drawn to these schools due to their commitment to preserving traditional beliefs, faith instruction, and cultural and religious identity.

While the reasons for the spike in enrol-

ments to independent faith based schools is debatable, our governments need to recognize the choices of Australian families and allocate greater funding and resources to boost the capacity of new and existing Independent faith based schools.

Mr Abdullah Khan further explained:

“To address these challenges and ensure adequate provision of educational opportunities, it is imperative for the state and commonwealth governments to consider providing significant capital funding grants for the construction of new Islamic schools. This is necessary as most Islamic Schools have low fees and are serving low socio-economic families. Due to these factors the pool of private funds, which are to be used on capital development, is small. By actively supporting the establishment of additional schools, the government can effectively alleviate the strain on existing schools and facilitate access to quality education within Islamic environment for those seeking it within the Islamic community.”

Establishing more Islamic education facilities and expanding the capacity of existing Islamic schools is essential, especially in fringe regions that are growth corridors for new and emerging communities.

Islamic schools that boast a robust community engagement strategy also offer families opportunities to connect with one another and with the broader community in meaningful ways throughout the education year.

Weekly programs like Islamic Storytime are available for mums with small children aged between 0 to 4 years old. Programs for little Muslims offer various benefits, not just as a soft start to big school but also for the mental and spiritual wellbeing of parents.

Parenting programs, Ladies Qur’an programs or women’s sports and recreation programs offer safe and welcoming environments for mums in the community to connect in spaces that are mindful of Islamic religious observations.

In line with their values and beliefs, parents in Australia are increasingly voting with their feet and are actively choosing independent faith based education for their children, despite cost-of-living pressures.

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.

In today’s fast-paced world, the spirit of volunteerism holds great importance in any community. From providing support to the less fortunate to contributing towards social causes, volunteering allows individuals to make a positive impact.

In Islamic teachings, volunteerism is not only highly regarded but also an essential aspect of practicing one’s faith. Let’s delve into the significance of volunteerism from an Islamic perspective.

Islamic teachings deeply root volunteerism, or ‘sadaqah,’ within them. Muslims consider selflessly serving others as an act of worship and a means to seek Allah’s pleasure. Engaging in volunteer work encourages Muslims to actively display compassion, kindness, and empathy towards fellow human beings.

Volunteerism goes beyond simple acts of charity. Muslims actively contribute their time, skills, and resources for the betterment of society. It encompasses various forms, such as providing food and shelter to the needy, offering healthcare services to the underprivileged, or participating in community development projects.

Engaging in volunteer work allows Muslims to fulfill their obligation of helping others and promoting social justice. It strength-

ens their connection with Allah and deepens their faith. Through acts of volunteerism, individuals embody the Islamic principles of selflessness, mercy, and compassion.

Is volunteerism only limited to Muslims?

No, volunteerism is not limited to any particular religion. Muslims believe in serving humanity regardless of their religious backgrounds.

What are the benefits of volunteerism in Islam?

Volunteerism allows Muslims to fulfill their duty of serving others, strengthen their faith, and create a positive impact on society.

Volunteerism holds immense significance in Islam. Muslims actively participate in volunteer activities to align their actions with their faith, follow the example of Prophet Muhammad (s), and contribute to building a better society.

Through selfless service, individuals not only make a difference in the lives of others but also experience personal growth and spiritual fulfilment.

Let’s embrace the spirit of volunteerism and strive to create a world where compassion and kindness prevail.

Gulhan Eryegit Yoldas

Nur Aimi Athirah binti Suhaimi

Aimi Suhaimi, an International Marketing Manager of MyFundAction and is a book writer back in Malaysia. Currently based in Sydney, Australia.

From Migrant to Mayor Bilal El-Hayek’s message to young Australians

John Mahoney

Thursday night 11 May 2023, saw the City of Canterbury Bankstown move into a new era following the election of a wellknown and highly popular community figure Bilal El-Hayek to the position of Mayor.

Canterbury Bankstown in southwest Sydney is one of largest and most populous Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Australia and the elevation of El-Hayek to his new role sees him become the first Muslim mayor of the LGA with not only the highest number of Muslim residents but also the highest figure, percentage-wise.

El-Hayek replaces outgoing Mayor Khal Asfour, who recently resigned from the position he had held since September 2017, when the City of Canterbury Bankstown Council was created through the merger of the former Canterbury City and Bankstown City Councils.

Like Asfour, El-Hayek was elected to Canterbury Bankstown Council in 2017 as a member of the Labor Party and over the past five and a half-plus years, the latter has proven to be an approachable, hard-working Councillor and (for much of it) Deputy Mayor, involved a wide range of community and development projects.

The Darani Ward representative is known for his advocacy of youth and community services, promoting local business growth and public safety.

From 2013 until late 2022, El-Hayek held the position of Youth Coordinator at Bankstown Police Citizens and Youth Club (PCYC), where he managed many youth and family programs while he has also played a huge role in the success of the Lebanese Muslim Association’s reinvigorated school holiday programs.

In this interview with AMUST writer John Mahoney, we find out more about the community-focused, inspirational father of four who is charged with leading his belov ed City of Canterbury Bankstown into the future.

How after migrating to Australia with his parents and siblings at the age of 12, unable to speak a word of English, he developed a passion for helping the community while still in high school.

He reveals how his late father helped shape the man he is today, and how his dad, while no longer physically present, remains a source of constant inspiration.

And how he encourages young Australi ans of today to “aim high and go for it!”

John Mahoney (JM): Can you tell us a lit tle bit about your family background and where you came from in Lebanon?

Bilal El-Hayek (BE-H): I was born in Tripoli. I come from humble beginnings, with my mother and father running a busi ness and as farmers in the village of Akkar, where I grew up with my five siblings.

JM: When did your parents move your family to Australia and what led them to make that decision?

BE-H: My family’s story is similar to many other migrants who have settled in this country. I arrived in 1999 as a 12-yearold, not speaking a word of English. My parents wanted the best opportunities for my siblings and myself – a solid education and good jobs.

JM: How did you find adjusting to life in Australia as a child who couldn’t speak English?

BE-H: Moving to a country where you don’t speak a word of the language is tough. I was fortunate to have extremely support ive and dedicated teachers who helped me every step of the way. That’s what inspired

me to dedicate my life to community service and helping local youth and families.

JM: Can you tell us about your educational background and how it has influenced your career path?

BE-H: I attended a number of local schools… an English intensive school at Beverly Hills, Punchbowl Boys High for one day, Belmore Boys High and I completed years 11 and 12 at Noor al Houda Islamic College in Strathfield. It was at school that I developed a passion for serving the community and for the past 10 years, that has been the journey of my career.

JM: Tell us about your wife and kids?

BE-H: I have been married to my wonderful wife Maysa for 16 years and we are blessed with four beautiful children. Our eldest son Mustafa is 15 years old, our twins Adam and Tasnim are 11 and little Noah is four.

JM: Can you share with us some of the community initiatives that you have been involved with over the years?

BE-H: I served as a youth coordinator at Bankstown Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC) for almost nine years. I also work closely with the Lebanese Muslim Association and manage school leadership programs and youth-led conferences. I am also currently involved in running Wise Up, a weekly youth program for local schools.

JM: How have you helped youth in the community and what do you think is important when it comes to engaging with them?

BE-H: In my many years at the Bankstown PCYC, I am proud to say I was able to help hundreds of young people who faced real issues like homelessness, unruly behaviour and truancy. I was able to work with them and encourage them to come along to the PCYC and work with some great professionals. It’s important to listen to our youth

teering with Meals on Wheels. I volunteer once a week and for me, meeting so many beautiful people and listening to their stories enriches me. Often, the one thing they all have in common is the need for companionship.

JM: Can you talk about your work with other vulnerable members of the community and what initiatives you have been involved with to support them?

BE-H: I’m always willing to roll up my sleeves and lend a helping hand. I was heavily involved in the 2020 Bushfire Appeal… collecting and delivering donations to those who had lost their homes during Black Summer. And during the recent flooding in northern NSW, I travelled with a convoy of volunteers and spent several days helping those left homeless and delivering much needed food hampers.

JM: How did losing your father influence your personal and professional life?

BE-H: My dad, Gazi, while no longer physically with me, is in my heart and mind every day. He is my role model and I work every day to make him proud.

JM: Can you share with us some of the values and lessons that your father instilled in you?

BE-H: My father instilled in me the values of hard work, love and dedication. His commitment to our family was unwavering and he did the utmost to provide us with the best opportunities.

JM: How have your mum and other family members supported you in your career and community work?

BE-H: My mother, Sana, and my five siblings have always been there for me through the highs and lows. They have always had my best interests at heart and keep me grounded. My wife, Maysa, is my rock and has supported my career aspirations since we married some 16 years ago. My loved ones have always encouraged me to do well and I know they will always be there for me.

JM: Can you tell us about your mentors in politics and what you have learned from them? Any other political figures

BE-H: I am honoured to call the Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations and Minister for the Arts, the Hon Tony Burke, my friend and mentor. Tony’s commitment to our district is unwavering and he inspires me every day to give my community my all. He has been involved in politics for nearly 20 years and his sage advice is always appreciated. I am also blessed to call the State Member for Bankstown and Minister for Youth, Customer Service and Emergency Services, the Hon Jihad Dib, my very good friend. He has also made the Muslim community proud of his achievements and I’ve been fortunate to have worked with him on many community initiatives.

JM: What inspired you to join the Labor Party and what do you think are the most important values of

BE-H: My interest in politics and the Labor Party was borne out of a desire to help those who have no voice, those struggling to make ends meet and to tackle social injustices and prejudices.

JM: What do you see as the biggest challenges facing the Canterbury Bankstown area and how do you plan to address them?

BE-H: The biggest issue facing residents at the moment is cost of living pressures. Our community has a high percentage of migrant workers and low-income households and they are struggling to make ends meet.

JM: Can you tell us about some of the initiatives you have planned for the future of the area?

BE-H: It’s my first intention to get out and about and chat with as many people as possible from town centres to local neighbourhoods and suburban streets across our City. We’ve got some exciting projects and plans like the Bankstown and Campsie Master Plans, which will bring jobs and investment.

JM: How do you plan to engage with the diverse communities in the area to ensure their needs are met?

BE-H: I will strive to work closely with religious and cultural organisations and do what I can to promote harmony and inclusivity. Council will continue to provide communications to cater for the many diverse cultures in our City.

JM: What role do you see technology playing in the future of the Canterbury Bankstown area?

BE-H: With AI technology and the smart cities roadmap, Council is doing some great things with technology to improve the lives of community members. There is no doubt that the use of technology within Council will continue to grow and I look forward to extending on the work Council is doing. We are already exploring locations for electric vehicle charge points and utilising AI technology on our garbage trucks and street sweepers for live tracking.

JM: Can you talk about any partnerships or collaborations you have formed to support the community in Canterbury Bankstown?

BE-H: I’ve developed partnerships with local Police, AFL club GWS Giants and the Lighthouse Community Support group, to manage school leadership programs and youth-led conferences.

I’m a proud White Ribbon Ambassador and sit on a committee that organises the annual local White Ribbon Day march, which attracts more than 2,000 people. I’m also involved in the planning of Harmony Day activities, which bring families of different cultures together to celebrate multiculturalism in Canterbury Bankstown and I was awarded the Premier’s Harmony Medal in 2018.

JM: What do you think are the most important qualities for a leader in your position to possess?

BE-H: I believe that the best leaders are those who serve their community. I’m not one to sit behind my desk and I have dedicated my life to service. I also think a good mayor should actively listen to his constituents and be aware of their issues.

JM: What advice would you give to young people who are interested in getting involved in their local community?

BE-H: My message to young people is simple. If a kid like me, who came to this country with no English can make it, you can. Aim high and go for it!

JM: Thank you so much for your time today, Mayor. I am sure that all our readers will join with AMUST in congratulating you on your new position and wishing you well for the future.

Mayor Bilal El-Hayek

Rumi’s timeless wisdom: Lessons for a meaningful life in 2023

Waseem Ahmad

In a world where we are bombarded with information and constantly connected to technology, the teachings of the 13th-century Persian poet Rumi provide a much-needed respite. His poetry and philosophy offer a profound and timeless roadmap to a more meaningful and fulfilling existence, encouraging us to embrace love, find inner truth, celebrate diversity, let go of attachments, and discover joy amidst life’s trials and tribulations.

Rumi’s profound wisdom on the transformative power of love resonates deeply in today’s world. In a society increasingly fragmented and polarised, his words remind us of the importance of cultivating compassion and empathy in our hearts.

His vision of love extends beyond romantic notions; it encompasses a divine love that unites all beings. He invites us to move beyond superficial differences and connect with the essence of humanity. Rumi’s teachings inspire us to transcend boundaries, nourish our relationships, and create a more harmonious and loving world.

Beyond the external realm, Rumi invites us on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth. His teachings on the importance of inner truth and self-reflection are more vital than ever, in a world where we are constantly bombarded by external distractions and materialistic pursuits.

He challenges us to turn inwards, beyond the illusions of the ego, and explore the depths of our souls. It is through this introspection that we can uncover our true nature and find meaning and purpose in life.

Diversity, a topic of great significance in our globalized world, was also celebrated by Rumi. His works emphasize the beauty of different cultures and traditions, reminding us of the richness that arises from inclusivity and respect for diverse perspectives.

He understood that our differences are not obstacles to unity, but rather opportunities for growth and expansion. By embracing diversity, we can foster a more inclusive society that cherishes and celebrates the tapestry of humanity.

Rumi’s teachings on letting go of attachments, both material and ego-driven, are perhaps his most profound. In an age where we are encouraged to accumulate wealth, possessions, and power, Rumi reminds us of the transient nature of life.

He encourages us to release our attachments and expectations, as they bind us and hinder our ability to experience true freedom and joy. By embracing impermanence, we can free ourselves from the burden of constantly chasing after fleeting desires, and instead, cultivate a sense of gratitude and wonder for the world around us.

Rumi’s poetry celebrates the simple pleasures of life, encouraging us to find joy and ecstasy in everyday moments. His words remind us that life is not just about achieving

Islamic values: Foundations for your well being

C Aisha Meguid

Let’s discover why – how well you are able to live your Islamic values is so significant for your well-being success in every area of your life in this world and the next!

I literally can list hundreds of reasons why every

Muslim who aspires for Islamic excellence and success, needs to practice the Islamic values activities in my book, ‘Transformed by Values’! Here are my top reasons.

The values you practice daily (whether you are conscious of them or not) determine every area of your life:

• What you like and do not like

• What you do and don’t do (in your character, relationships, religion, work, health, etc.)

• Your emotional, mental, social and spiritual habits

• Your goals

• What and how you spend your time

• What you move towards and away from and more Shocked? I’m sure you are! Most people don’t realise how values have such a governing power in our life! Moreover, values are the key area where we are tested and challenged the most in life!

How well we practice and live our values determines the quality of every choice and decision we make; as a result, every action and its consequence in this life and the next life.

Hence, the quality of your life comes from your knowledge and skills in how to live your Islamic values with excellence.

As if that was not enough convincing about the power of values, here’s one more critical reason:

All your intentions, thoughts, feelings, actions, character and habits have their roots within how effectively you live your values!

You’re probably wondering by now, how is it possible to truly excel in how I live my values.

Islamic values growth and success comes from improving your psychological, emotional, social & spiritual domains

To practice your Islamic values consistently, in everything you are and do, you need the ‘know-how’ of self-mastery.

Mastering how you live and benefit from your Islamic values depends on the quality of your psychological, emotional, social & spiritual skills & habits.

(Note: I don’t mean literally ‘master’ because we regularly get tested in life with challenges to push and pull us to another level of growth. Mastery means having adequate skills to successfully manage and effectively lead your life in the various domains).

The ability to live your Islamic values keeps growing, when you improve the quality of your key life domain skills and resources:

• Spiritually/Islamically – improving your spiritual/Islamic knowledge, practices and habits.

• Mental/Psychological– improving the quality of your mind and higher thinking skills

• Emotionally – improving your positive emotions, your emotional responses and skills.

• Socially – improving your relationship and quality connections skills.

Hence why my book, ‘Transformed by Values’ (available on Amazon), is a valuable life-mastery & self-mastery tool to help you become the architect of your psychological, emotional, social & spiritual skills and life, which are critical to your Islamic values growth & success (and hence to reaching your highest potential and fulfilling and honouring your Islamic purpose of life).

Want to learn more about Transformed by Values? Join our free webinars 2023 for women.

Visit – www.aishameguid.com/event/ transformed-by-values-webinars

great success or acquiring wealth, but rather about the moments of connection, love, and wonder that make life truly meaningful. He invites us to slow down, to immerse ourselves in the present moment, and to discover the beauty that surrounds us. Through mindfulness and an appreciation for life’s wonders, we can infuse our days with a sense of awe and joy.

As we journey through the year 2023, let us take inspiration from Rumi’s teachings and strive to live more meaningful, purpose-

ful lives. By cultivating love, embracing diversity, seeking inner truth, letting go of attachments, and finding joy in the present moment, we can create a world that is more compassionate, more harmonious, and more beautiful.

Let us take Rumi’s words to heart, and in doing so, find a path to a more fulfilling and enlightened existence. May his timeless wisdom guide us in navigating the complexities of our times and in shaping a future filled with love, understanding, and joy.

Inflation: Can’t catch a break

If you’ve ever been stung by a hungry bee, you’ll know that ‘sting’ feeling. This is the reality and experience that many Muslim Australian families are feeling right now, a sting in their pocket.

We’re almost halfway through the Gregorian calendar year and the cost of simply trying to live hasn’t got any easier. How many times have you heard your parents say;

“Money doesn’t grow on trees”!!!

Whether its hungry children raiding the cupboards after school, screaming “MUM I’M HUNGRY”! Whether it’s that dreaded extra-large electricity bill that is now weeks overdue, or an array of payment plans and debts piling up on the dining table that hasn’t been looked at for the past few weeks.

It’s fair to say, ‘We’re feeling the pinch’.

This is simply the reality for many Muslim Australians, they’re simply doing it tough. On 9 May 2023, the Australian federal budget was released. The anticipated hope for some long-awaited relief to alleviate the pressure on the debit card had arrived.

So, you might be wondering what the National Zakat Foundation has been doing to support our brothers and sisters. Over the last 10 years, the National Zakat Foundation has been serving the local Muslim community at the micro and mezzo level.

More often than not, unfortunately, the people in our community who are doing it tough are typically not recognised. We’ve witnessed verbally and visually first-hand

the increasing need of people seeking assistance with meeting their daily living expenses throughout the year.

This is because of the insisting rising costs of electricity and gas, petrol, rental increases, meat, fruit, and vegetables (alhamdulillah the price of lettuce has gone down). For some people, they simply ‘can’t catch a break’.

This exemplifies and reaffirms the notion that the need for local Zakat is paramount. The National Zakat Foundation is a driving force behind empowering the local Muslim community to become self-sufficient.

One way in which this has been achieved is by carrying out assessments diligently to determine the eligibility of potential recipients receiving Zakat. This is implemented to ensure that the zakat is being carefully distributed to those who are eligible.

Subsequently, this not only enables but also empowers individuals to get ‘back on their feet’. This in itself reflects the value, blessing and fundamental essence of Zakat, to reduce poverty, promote equal economic opportunity, uplift social justice and empower individuals to be self-sufficient.

With the permission of Allah, the National Zakat Foundation will continue to endeavour to alleviate the financial sting upon those who are doing it tough and to enable those to ‘catch a break’.

In next month’s edition, we’ll explore briefly what the impact looks like when someone is enduring finical hardships. This will provide greater clarity and address the circumstances that aren’t always visible.

Cynthia Aisha Meguid is a wellbeing teacher, educator, consultant and coach based in Sydney.

Shakir Hurn

How to surrender to Allah

Princess R Lakshman

Recently in one of my counselling sessions my client asked me to help her understand what surrendering to Allah actually meant.

The word Islam itself means to surrender to Allah’s will. As Muslims we understand this on a conceptual level, we accept this as our foundation of existence, but we don’t always succeed in the act of surrendering to Allah in our daily lives.

We get consumed by the fear of the unknown. Our mind and body become debilitated by anxiety because of this fear of the unknown. And our daily struggles become more burdensome because we forget that Islam is always about surrendering, not resisting, to Allah’s will.

And that’s what is the most challenging part of being a Muslim.

In answering to my client’s question, I asked her to think of the following scenario to gain a better understanding of what surrendering to Allah actually looked like in action:

Imagine that you have been given a storm warning. It is estimated to be in your location in a few hours. One of the first things we do in that case is to prepare for our safety. We make sure that all windows and doors are shut, all outdoor furniture is stored away or appropriately covered. We ensure we remain in a safe and secure space.

And then we wait for the moment of the storm. We listen, we try and remain calm while the storm is happening. Once the storm passes, we then begin the big cleanup. We spend hours, sometimes days restoring everything back to normal.

In the above scenario, there is a precise

moment which teaches us surrender. Allah has blessed us with our mind and body to prepare for the storm and to clean up after the storm. But He has showed us that the actual moment of the storm belongs only and only to Him alone.

It is Allah that knows exactly when the rain, winds, thunder, and lightening during that storm will occur and with what force.

The moments before the storm and the moments after the storm we use our skills, logic, our mind, and body, to control things but there is absolutely zero control any creation has in the precise moment of the storm’s occurrence. That moment belongs to Allah. Accepting this knowing and acting without resistance to it is what surrendering means.

It is to know and accept without resistance that you can prepare for your day, and you

How to be wise and succeed

Why are wise guardians are required for a successful family life? Why every nation tries to elect wise leaders?

Well, wisdom is a precious quality in humans. It guides people to make the right decisions at the right time to achieve better outcomes.

It is the high status of intellect in human minds, and it is equipped with correct knowledge, practical life experiences, and proper thinking.

The question is how can I be wise? Can I get a couple of tips to help me to become wise? I shall try to share a few tips in this regard.

can analyse the events that occurred in your day, but you can’t control everything in your day.

You will be required to pause during your day, every day, and realise that whatever you’re trying hard to control through anger or fear or shame or guilt or blame is only going to cause more pain and anguish.

Take a deep breath and as you exhale, surrender in the knowing that it is Allah who can help you feel calmer. Turn to Allah and surrender your “storm” to Allah. This too shall pass.

Princess R. Lakshman is a writer, speaker, qualified clinical nutritionist, life coach and a counsellor. She is based in Sydney, Australia.

Surah Ad-Duha: Unlocking the joyful secrets to bounce back from sadness!

Waseem Ahmad

Feeling a little down? Don’t worry, there’s a treasure trove of wisdom in the Quran to help lift your spirits and bounce back from sadness. Surah Ad-Duha, the 93rd chapter of the Quran, is like a bright ray of sunshine on a gloomy day.

Revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (s) during a period of personal turmoil, this chapter holds the key to finding joy and content ment in life. So, grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let’s dive into the uplifting world of Surah Ad-Duha!

Imagine this: you wake up to a breathtaking sunrise, the sky painted in vivid hues of orange and pink. Surah Ad-Duha, aptly named “The Morn ing Brightness,” re minds us that no matter how dark the night may be, a new day is just around the corner, full of hope and op portunities.

It’s a beautiful metaphor for overcoming sadness and embracing the light that follows. But wait, there’s more!

This chapter reassures us that even in our lowest moments, we are not alone. The Almighty is always by our side, never leaving us nor despising us. It’s like having a best friend who sticks with you through thick and thin, offering a comforting presence when you need it the most. Knowing that

we are unconditionally loved and supported can truly lift the weight of sadness from our hearts.

Surah Ad-Duha also whispers a secret: the path to happiness lies in gratitude and growth. It nudges us to take a moment and appreciate the blessings that surround us. Remember that time when you felt lost and bewildered? Well, guess what? You made it through, my friend!

Surah Ad-Duha reminds us of the hurdles we’ve overcome, the guidance we’ve received when we needed it most.

Gratitude unlocks the door to contentment and transforms our outlook on life. But here’s where it gets even more exciting!

Surah Ad-Duha encourages us to spread joy by engaging in acts of kindness.

It’s like a magic recipe for happiness!

Helping others, sharing our blessings, and putting smiles on their faces not only makes their day but also fills our hearts with warmth and fulfillment. Whether it’s volunteering, donating, or simply lending a listening ear, acts of kindness are the secret ingredient to a happier you!

So, how can we put these amazing insights into action?

First, take a moment each day to connect with the Divine. Through prayer, recitation of the Quran, or simply contemplating nature, find your unique way to establish a

spiritual connection. It’s a little daily dose of inspiration and a reminder that you are never alone.

Next, embrace the power of positivity. Make a conscious effort to focus on the bright side of life. Start a gratitude journal, jotting down three things you’re grateful for each day. Challenge yourself to see the silver lining even in the toughest situations. Remember, a positive mindset is like a magnet for joy!

Now, get ready to spread some cheer!

Find a cause that resonates with you and get involved. Whether it’s helping at a local shelter, organizing a fundraiser, or surprising a friend with a random act of kindness, let your inner superhero shine. The joy you’ll bring to others will uplift your own spirits and create a ripple effect of happiness in the world.

While the wisdom of Surah Ad-Duha is indeed powerful, it’s important to seek professional help when needed. If sadness persists or intensifies, reaching out to mental health experts who can provide the support and guidance you deserve is crucial.

Combining spiritual practices with professional assistance forms a holistic approach to overcoming sadness and finding lasting joy. Remember, you don’t have to face it alone – there is a network of resources available to help you on your journey towards happiness and emotional well-being.

So, let Surah Ad-Duha be your guide to unlock the secrets of joy and resilience. Embrace the morning brightness that awaits, knowing that you are never alone, and that gratitude, growth, and acts of kindness can transform your life.

Allow this beautiful chapter to illuminate your path and bring a renewed sense of hope, contentment, and laughter to your heart.

Connecting with the book of wisdom

Allah is All-wise (Al-Hakeem), and His revelation, the Holy Quran is also the Book of Wisdom. Allah say: “Yaa Sin. By the Quran, full of Wisdom.” [Quran 36:1-2]

The Quran is the great source of wisdom from the Allwise Allah. Therefore, to learn wisdom, we must connect with the Holy Quran.

Praying to All-wise Allah to increase knowledge from the Holy Quran

To be wise, a precondition is, acquiring the errorless knowledge because correct knowledge can lead t far-reaching outcomes. It goes as far as the never-ending next life. Allah guides what to ask for to increase knowledge for wisdom: “But say, O my Lord! Increase me in knowledge.” [Quran 20:114]

Thinking before action

Avoid impulsiveness, rushing, and hurried behaviour in words and action. One must think of consequences before uttering words, taking action or making a decision. Use reason with divine knowledge to foresee the future. The Prophet (s) advised: “O Abu Jar! There is no better wisdom than thinking (thoroughly of pros and cons) before actions.” [Hadith: Bayhaki fee Shua’bul Iman]

Using self-control to prevent worst outcome Allah has given us free intellect, the faculty of reasoning, the wisdom, the divine knowledge, and the will power for self-control avoiding bad talks, gestures, manners, and actions in order to prevent disgrace, humiliation, failure, loss, and Allah’s punishment.

We can avoid the embarrassment in Allah’s court on the Day of Judgment if we control ourselves from sins. Self-control to prevent bad outcome is the true wisdom.

Quranic Wisdom guides us towards self-control in order to avoid Hell Fire and enter Paradise:

“And for those who had felt the fear of standing before their (Almighty) Lord and had restrained (controlled Their) souls from lowly desires, their home will be the Paradise.” [Quran 79:40-41]

Farid Ahmed is a survivor of Christchurch attack on 15 June 2019, a peace advocate, author of HUSNA’S Story and Quran teacher in Christchurch.

Farid Ahmed

From heat to heart: Volunteering for sustained change

Kevser Tuncer

The heat. That is what first greeted us as we stepped out of Phnom Penh International Airport on Friday 14 April

2023

A few months earlier, I had agreed to take a volunteering group of Sirius College students on a meaningful trip to Cambodia. Our purpose being, to participate in the annual Ramadan Campaign organised by the Australian Relief Organisation (ARO); and now here we stood 6,887km away from home, immersed in an entirely new world.

Amongst the blaring sound of tuk tuk horns, mesmerisingly curly abugida script, Khmer rap and bustling street vendors, we were confronted with a stark contrast between affluence and poverty. Ivory mega mansions towered over modest, corrugated iron homes. This obvious divide was the initial catalyst behind a shift in mindset for the students and me.

All too often we robotically blurt out “I wish I could do more to help”, lulling ourselves into a false sense of action, where mere intentions compensate for any real change. It was this impassive rhetoric which propelled the collaboration between Sirius College and ARO.

Beyond the standard activities involving package preparation and distribution, iftar tent setup and visiting water wells; students

had the opportunity to witness and actively contribute to grassroots change, by networking with ARO’s locally supported schools, dormitories and organisations, such as Human Help Organisation (HHO), to provide upskilling and ongoing educational support to those in need, particularly orphans.

This unique opportunity not only granted students an insight into varying life circumstances, but also prompted a candid examination of their accountability and responsibility towards their fellow human beings.

Throughout our time in Cambodia, we were accompanied by local students who were part of the HHO family; giving us a firsthand understanding of the real change that is occurring. We were taken back to the provinces our guides were originally from, to help share the spirit of giving and the essence of Ramadan with the wider Muslim community.

In the process, breaking down numerous preconceptions we had, with the most valuable being, that volunteering is not about taking pity, or a once off experience to be ticked off some internalised checklist.

Instead, it became clear that volunteering represents a pivotal experience, offering a firsthand glance into the means of bringing about genuine and, more importantly, sustained change through skill development, education, support and recognition.

Many of the Sirius College students stated that they would be back again and again, with one student actively networking with local schools to secure future opportunities to assist in the enhancement of local youth.

In the end, it was not the heat of the

weather which left an impression on us, but rather the warmth of lasting friendships and the positive changes witnessed.

To be involved in one of ARO’s numerous projects, please visit their website: https:// www.aro.org.au/home/homepage

Kevser Tuncer is a graduate in media, communication and literature, currently working as a secondary school teacher. She is a writer who is passionate about working with community, youth and exploring identity and values.

Mufti of Egypt at AMU urges Muslims to engage

While on a state visit to India, the Grand Mufti of Egypt called upon Muslims to become Ambassadors of Peace saying, “True spirit of Islam is engaging with people of all faith and philosophies,” during his address on Tuesday 2 May at the iconic Aligarh Muslim University.

The one day AMU visit of the Grand Mufti of Egypt was a part of his state visit to India hosted by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India.

“There is a need to grasp and understand the true spirit of Islam that is engaging and dealing with people of all faiths, civilizations and philosophies by seeking common grounds and recognizing the diversities and differences which are divine gift and blessing from the God”, said the Grand Mufti of the Arab Republic of Egypt Dr Shawki Ibrahim Abdel-Karim Allam during his address to a large gathering of teachers, students and officials of the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) at the Kennedy Auditorium.

Delivering his speech on ‘Dialogue among Civilisations’, Dr Shawki said “building bridges and engaging with followers of different faiths has been the practice of the Prophet Mohammad until he passed away at the age of 63. The Prophet sent his companions to Abyssinia which was predominantly a Christian land and in Medina he signed an agreement known as the ‘Constitution of Medina’ in which he set the rules of engagement with Jewish clans and other residents of the city.”

Quoting from the Quran, the Grand Mufti of Egypt said that Prophet Mohammad was an epitome of mercy and compassion and he is a role model particularly for Muslims in respect to their conduct and behaviour towards neighbours, friends, relatives and humanity at large.

Warning Muslims against the ‘crooked understanding of faith,’ he said, “it is our shared responsibility to re-claim Islam from those who interpret it in the wrong way; and become ambassadors of peace and bridge building in the world.”

Dr Shawki Ibrahim Abdel-Karim Allam expressed his gratitude for being invited to AMU, “Established by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, a great visionary, this institution is historic and it has a role to play in peace-building measures”, he pointed out.

Giving his presidential remarks AMU Vice Chancellor Prof Mohammad Gulrez said engaging with civilizations and people of various faiths is the only way forward for the peaceful existence and progress of humanity.

“The thesis of the ‘Clash of Civilization’ propounded by Hutington after the World War was a dangerous philosophy. Instead, building bridges between civilizations, cultures and religions and inter-faith dialogue is the only way to foster harmony among people,” the Vice Chancellor remarked. He praised the Grand Mufti for spreading the message of peace at various global platforms including the World Sufi Summit at New Delhi (2016) and the World Economic Forum at Davos (2016).

Earlier, Mr Mohammad Imran IPS, AMU Registrar introduced the esteemed guest and welcomed him on behalf of AMU. He also mentioned the Dara Shikoh Centre for Interfaith Understanding and Dialogue of AMU and described the shared bonds between India and Egypt.

The Vice Chancellor presented a memento, a coffee-table book Jahan-e-Syed and another book ‘A History of Aligarh Muslim University 1920-2020’ to the Grand Mufti, who also presented a gift to the Vice Chancellor.

AMUST Media

Prof Mohd Gulrez honouring Dr Shawki Ibrahim Abdel Karim Allam.

India is using the G20 summit to further its settler-colonial ambitions in Kashmir

Dr Omer Aijazi

In September, India will host the 2023 Group of 20 (G20) summit in the capital, New Delhi. Events and meetings are already taking place in other venues around the country. Under its G20 presidency, India will host a Tourism Working Group meeting in Srinagar, in Indian-administered Kashmir, in late May.

New Delhi wants to show the world that normalcy has returned to the picturesque, resource-rich region and that the disputed territory is open to visitors and investors.

The iconic Dal Lake will form the backdrop for the meeting. International delegates will also visit Gulmarg, a popular winter destination, under tight security provided by India’s Ministry of Home Affairs.

The route to Gulmarg is lined with barbed wire. Armed soldiers keep watch from fortified bunkers. The resort town is near the Line of Control that bifurcates Kashmir into Indian-held and Pakistani-held areas.

Hosting G20 delegates in Srinagar is a step towards normalizing India’s occupation of Kashmir internationally. But Kashmiris continue to demand their right to self-determination in accordance with international law and United Nations resolutions.

International attendance of the meeting will seriously undermine their efforts.

In Canada, the NDP has called on the federal government to boycott any G20 meetings that take place in Kashmir, citing the Indian government’s human rights abuses. However, the Trudeau government has reportedly ignored those calls.

Normalizing occupation

Beautification projects are underway in Srinagar on an industrial scale. These revitalization campaigns are designed to create a sanitized image of Kashmir for foreign delegates. The region remains troubled by violence and human rights abuses, as well as draconian media restrictions.

Human rights activists and journalists are being arrested and there have been reports of hundreds of young people being detained by security forces.

Urban renewal in Srinagar is a tool of displacement and dislocation. I spoke with Asghar, a long-time Kashmiri resident of

Srinagar, over the phone earlier this month. He described how urban redevelopment projects are changing certain sections of the city entirely. This, coupled with the government’s name-changing spree, is creating a sense of alienation for locals who feel out of place in their own homeland.

The Indian government is planning to temporarily minimize the visible presence of troops in the heavily militarized region by building “smart bunkers.” These are bunkers painted in pastel tones and subtly positioned so they remain unnoticed by foreign visitors.

“Smart policing” is also underway. This includes security agencies monitoring social media, gathering local intelligence, and surveillance through CCTV cameras and aerial drones.

Police officers handling foreign delegates are being trained to display a softer and more polite image. This is in sharp contrast to the treatment of Kashmiris by Indian security personnel.

G20 and tourism

Founded in 2020, the G20’s Tourism Working Group guides the development of local and global tourism among G20 countries with an eye to achieving the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The G20 meeting is the first global event to be held in the Kashmir valley since India unilaterally removed the region’s semi-autonomous status in 2019. Since then, the region has undergone significant rezoning and re-districting.

Semi-autonomous status granted Kashmiris some territorial and cultural rights while living under Indian rule. The designation recognized that India was only a temporary administrator of Kashmir. And that Kashmiris had the right to ultimately decide their own future.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) long opposed Kashmir’s special status. Revoking it was in the party’s 2019 election manifesto.

Kashmir is divided by the Line of Control that separates the Indian- and Pakistani-controlled areas. It is one of the world’s most militarized regions.

Tourism is big business

India is seeking to capitalize on the scenic beauty of the Kashmir valley that it illegally occupies. Domestic tourists from India visited Kashmir in record numbers last year.

Since coming into power in 2014, Modi’s government has also heavily promoted religious tourism in the disputed territory. Last year an estimated one million people from all over India attended the annual Amarnath Yatra, a 43-day Hindu pilgrimage, amid heavy security.

With the return of direct international air travel to Indian-administered Kashmir and the construction of railway infrastructure that connects the region to India, the Indian government is determined to open Kashmir to the world.

On the other hand, the mobility of local Kashmiris remains severely restricted. Ultimately, we must question what kind of connectivity is desired, by whom and for what purpose.

Tourism

and settler-colonialism

The Indian government sees Kashmir as an “integral part” of the country and wants to make its occupation permanent. Tourism plays a direct role in legitimizing and expanding the Indian control of Kashmiri lands.

Kashmir scholar Ather Zia cautions against uncritically accepting tourism as a form of development. Tourism in settler-colonial contexts is an extension of imperial politics. It is the process by which colonized lands are absorbed by a hegemonic state.

This is achieved by fostering a sense of attachment for those with little or no connection to occupied lands. The Indian government has weaponized the law to make it easier for Indians to visit and settle in Kashmir, disavowing and erasing Indigenous Kashmiri claims to the same lands.

The Indian government also aims to change the demographics in the Muslim-majority region in favor of Hindus.

Decolonizing tourism

All of this raises questions about the ethics of tourism in occupied territories.

Indigenous governance and Native Hawaiian scholar Hōkūlani K. Aikau and Vernadette Vicuña Gonzalez argue that colonialism is the ultimate breach of guest protocol that violates a welcome that was never extended. By visiting areas under occupation, tourists, unknowingly or knowingly, reproduce the violent colonization of peoples and places.

Those visiting Kashmir must first learn about the decolonial history of the region, one that honours Kashmiri calls for self-determination and sovereignty. They must follow the principle of do no harm by not visiting tourist sites or using tour operators run by Indian authorities. They should support local Kashmiri-run businesses as much as possible.

There is no simple resolution for tourism on occupied lands. Tourism amid settler-colonialism manifests in exploitation, dispossession, commodification and other injustices and inequities. The goal of ethical travel is not immediate perfection or self-exoneration. It is an invitation to think about our own actions and complicity.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article at https://tinyurl.com/5hbxx98w.

Dr Omer Aijazi is a visiting researcher in Anthropology at the University of Victoria, Canada and works alongside international development, humanitarian, and human rights organizations, linking research with policy, practice, and activism.

Muslim Indians are proud of their ancestor’s decision to embrace Islam

Dr Aslam Abdullah

Not all Muslim Indians trace their biological roots to Arabia, Central Asia, or Persia. But, like many Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, Sikhs, Dalits, Christians, or Sanatan

Dharmis claiming to be Indians, they were the country’s original inhabitants, who belonged to the pre-Dravidian aborigines, the ancestors of the present tribal or Adivasis (Scheduled Tribes).

The Aryans arrived in India between roughly 2000 BCE and 1500 BCE. They were Central Asian Steppe pastoralists. They spoke Sanskrit, an Indo-Aryan dialect, originating as Vedic Sanskrit as early as 1700-1200 BCE.

Brahmans identify the Vedas, meaning knowledge, as their oldest book. They represent the ancient Indo-Aryan culture of the Indian Subcontinent that began as an oral tradition. According to tradition, Vyasa is

the compiler of the Vedas, who arranged the four kinds of mantras into four Samhitas.

Manusmriti is a sacred scripture attributed to Brahma, the creator, who passes it on to the first human, Manu, who passes it on to the first teacher, Bhrigu, who passes it on to other sages. Since its composition, the upper castes consider it as the foremost dharma-shastra, overshadowing all other law books.

The invaders described themselves as Aryans and forced the natives to accept a hierarchical system based on their ideas, which they attributed to imaginary and mythological deities and sages. For thousands of years, the natives suffered inequalities under a pseudo-religious narrative promoted by the power elites.

From time to time, people challenged the narratives perpetuated by the power elites known as Brahmans. Buddha is one of them. Buddhism developed in reaction to Brahminism. But, unfortunately, its followers paid a heavy price for their revolt.

Following the path of Buddha and many like him, hundreds and thousands of marginalized tribal, people consigned to the lowest

levels of human existence, and conscientious humans responded to the call of egalitarianism introduced by Arab merchants.

Islam became their religion. Most Muslims in the Indo-Pak-Bangladesh subcontinent are descendants of the early revolutionaries and visionaries; the power elites violently responded to them.

Early Indians’ quest for equality continued even after they accepted Islam. The new power elites comprised tribes and races which, at the instance of local upper caste rulers, had intervened in their disputes against each other.

Many local power elites compromised with the new power elites, perpetuating the old hierarchies and racial superiority. Some converted to the religion of the new elites. Others adapted their style of life for political expediency.

The movement of marginalized Muslims was for a dignified existence; It was a revolt against an ideology that misused the name of imaginary deities to institutionalize inequality based on birth.

The descendants of earlier Muslim Indians could not follow in the footsteps of their

forefathers. They revived the old hierarchies against their creed and indulged in discrimination. The plight of Dalits and tribals is a living testimony.

Muslim Indians should proudly own the decision of their predecessors and say loudly and clearly, “Our forefathers made the right decision, and we applaud them for their revolutionary and brave act.”

An effective way to pay tribute to their ancestors is to help uplift the downtrodden. Sixty-eight percent of Indians identify themselves as members of lower castes, including 34% who are members of either Scheduled Castes (SCs) or Scheduled Tribes (STs) and 35% who are members of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) or Most Backward Classes.

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.

Dangers of bullying and cyberbullying

John Mahoney

Bullying is a major social issue all over the world and is almost as old as time, itself.

It can affect almost anyone, regardless of their age, race, culture, religion – or wherever they may ‘fit’ in society.

The kind of aggressive behaviour that we see as bullying is just as prevalent today as it has been in years gone by – or even more so.

Bullying is the use of power or influence by an aggressor to harm another party or obtain some kind of leverage over them: physically, emotionally or both.

The main forms of bullying include physical, verbal, social, sexual, psychological, workplace and cyber.

All forms of bullying are equally harmful and damaging to the victim’s emotional and mental wellness and as responsible members of society, we all have some kind of role to play in protecting those around us from being bullied.

In this digital age, cyberbullying has emerged as a huge social issue.

Cyberbullying is the use of technology including social media and various forms of messaging to intentionally harm, bully or intimidate another party – either online or through digital communication.

Because it’s done digitally or online, it isn’t always easy to identify cyberbullying.

What should be more obvious though, especially if we keep vigilant or alert, is that a family member, friend, workplace or school colleague is being cyberbullied.

These signs will assist you to identify if somebody is a victim of cyberbullying:

• Changes in behaviour including withdrawal or depression;

• Withdrawing from or avoiding social situations (such as attending events) or activities that they previously enjoyed;

• A decrease in self-esteem and/or confi-

dence;

• Eating disorders or changes in sleep pattern;

• A sudden reluctance to use digital devices or go online.

Preventing cyberbullying requires a collective effort from the government, employers, parents, teachers and the rest of the community.

Governments must take the lead in educating the public about the dangers of cyberbullying and its consequences by way of providing resources and training for teachers, parents, and students on how to recognise and prevent it.

They should also introduce legislation specifically addressing cyberbullying and warn of the legal consequences for those who engage in it.

Parents and children need to be educated about the dangers of cyberbullying and how best to avoid it while workers and students should be encouraged to speak up if they

are being cyberbullied or know of someone who is.

In the home, children’s online activity should be monitored and time limits set on digital device usage and kids should be taught to be kind and respectful online.

Through his roles as the co-founder of Islamic charitable organisations Brothers In Need and Project Qur’an, Dean Mousad is a very well-known figure in the Australian Muslim community.

A qualified counsellor and member of the Australian Counselling Association, Dean is also the founder and director of Invictus Solutions, a service which through various forms of mentoring, consulting, counselling and workshops, provides strategies for its clients to cope with the life challenges that they may be facing.

“Cyberbullying can have huge negative impacts on an individual’s mental health, well-being and social relationships,” Dean told AMUST.

“Because the internet has such a wide reach and because of its anonymity, it is hard for cyberbullying victims to escape from or for authorities to identify and intervene.”

“Young people are particularly vulnerable because they grow up with digital technology and are more likely to engage in risky behaviour online which may make them a target of cyberbullying.”

“They may also lack the maturity and social regulation skills they need to cope with the trauma and stress that we associate with cyberbullying.”

Through Invictus Solutions, Dean (pictured) and his team have been facilitating workshops in schools and workplaces on bullying with a special focus on cyberbullying, attracting strong interest from school administrators and employers in southwestern Sydney.

“For example, we recently ran a total of 24 workshops over the course of a week at Alfaisal College’s Auburn campus, targeting students between Years 7-10 and we’ve been fielding enquiries from many other learning institutions.”

“At Invictus Solutions, we have the capacity to facilitate multiple cyberbullying workshops at the same school, providing different presentations and levels of information tailored to the age of the students.”

“Bullying and these days cyberbullying are huge issues and we are about conveying the message to the kids in a sensitive manner when required, but also we don’t sugar-coat things.”

“But the main thing to remember is that cyberbullying can be a serious and traumatic experience, particularly for children and it’s important that action is taken to protect them and help them feel safe and supported at all times.”

UniSQ awards Emeritus Professorship to Dr Shahjahan Khan

The University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ), Australia awarded certificate of Emeritus Professor Award to a prominent Bangladeshi academic in a function in Dhaka on Thursday 18 May 2023.

This is a rare honour for a Bangladeshi born Australian academic. Only a handful of Bangladesh academics achieved this kind of highest professional recognition from western universities for their exceptional research and academic contribution.

The Chancellor of the UniSQ, Mr John Dornbusch presented the Award to Professor Dr Shahjahan Khan, the current Vice Chancellor of Asian University of Bangladesh (AUB). The Chancellor carried his academic gown and the certificate with him for the occasion to honour Professor Khan.

In another unprecedented recognition of his outstanding contribution, UniSQ, Australia has introduced Professor Shahjahan Khan scholarship for international students, especially for the students of UniSQ of Bangladesh origin.

This is a huge achievement bringing top level hounour and respect to his family, Bangladesh, Islamic world, and beyond. His remarkable achievements and recognition are inspiration to future generations of academics and researchers in Australia and Bangladesh.

The function was attended by Professor Ren Yi, Pro Vice Chancellor International of UniSQ; and Dr Muhammad Jafar Sadeq, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Professor Md Nurul Islam, Treasurer and Mr AKM Enamul Haque, Registrar of AUB.

Emeritus Professor Dr Shahjahan Khan served at the Southern Queensland University, Australia as the founding professor of statistics, and after 37 years he decided to come back to Bangladesh to serve his beloved motherland.

A world-class scientist, Professor Khan is

a statistician with expertise in statistical inference, multivariate analysis, public health, evidence-based decision-making and meta-analysis.

He has published over 260 research papers, and presented 20 workshops, 28/3 keynote/plenary addresses, and over 60 invited talks in international scholarly gatherings. He has supervised 20 PhD and 3 MPhil students.

He is an elected expatriate Fellow of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences (BAS), and Fellow, Royal Statistical Society, UK; Elected Member, International Statistical Institute (ISI), Netherlands; Member of Institute of Mathematical Statistics (IMS), USA; and Statistical Society of Australia.

He is the founding Chief Editor of Journal of Applied Probability and Statistics (JAPS), USA since 2005.

He received prestigious Q M Hossain Gold Medal from Bangladesh Statistical Association (2012), 4th recipient since 1997, and ISESCO-ISOSS Gold Medal (2001), and ISOSS Gold Medal (2007) for his outstanding research contributions and international professional leadership.

He obtained his PhD (1992) and MSc degrees in Mathematical Statistics from the University of Western Ontario (UWO), Canada; and BSc (Hon) and MSc in Statistics from Jahangirnagar University, Bangladesh.

He started his academic career as a Lecturer at Dhaka University, Bangladesh in 1980, and was awarded Commonwealth Scholarship in the UK.

He joined the University of Southern Queensland (USQ), Australia in 1993 at a Lecturer. He served as the founding Professor of Statistics at USQ since 2011. In addition to teaching at UWO, Canada he has taught at University of Dhaka, Bangladesh; King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Saudi Arabia; Sultan Qaboos University, Oman; and University of Bahrain, Bahrain. At USQ, he has served as the Statistics Discipline leader, member on the Academic Senate/Board and Chair of Multicultural Staff Network.

As the President of the Islamic Countries Society of Statistical Sciences (ISOSS) 2005-20011, he organized international statistics conferences in Bangladesh, Malay-

sia, Egypt, Qatar, Indonesia, and Pakistan. In 2011, ISOSS organised an international conference in Lahore in honour of Professor Khan.

As a visiting Scientist he has visited and made presentations at Tokyo University, Japan; National University of Singapore; Carleton University, Canada; Calcutta University, India; University of Malaya, University Technology Malaysia, and University Putra Malaysia; Bogor Agricultural University, Indonesia; Daffodil International University, Bangladesh; and Karachi University, Pakistan.

For his outstanding contribution and dedicated service to the community he won the Cultural Diversity Ambassador Award of Queensland Government (2014), Queensland Police Service Award (2016), and USQ Award of Excellence for Diversity and Inclusion (2018). He served as the Chair of USQ Multicultural Staff Network 20132020, and organised many local and international seminars and symposia on Multiculturalism to promote respect and dignity among diverse communities.

Professor Khan is the founding President of Islamic Society of Toowoomba Inc (1994) and the Chair of Toowoomba Islamic Charitable Trust (2013) and Garden City Mosque. He served as the Vice President of Islamic Council of Queensland.

He has lived and worked in 10 different countries in Australia, Europe, North America, Southeast Asia, and Middle East, in addition to travelling extensively to many other countries.

Professor Khan comes from a very respectable Muslim family of the southern district of Gopalgonj, Bangladesh. He is married to Anarkali Lutfun Nahar and they are blessed with 3 sons.

The eldest son is a highly accomplished IT specialist and the junior 2 are well educated entrepreneurs running their production industries in Australia.

Pilgrim’s Progress: Half a century of Imkane Ru’yah based Unified World Islamic Calendar

On 9 Zulhijjah 10 AH (632 CE) from the last Khutbah of Prophet Muhammad (s) at Arafah, Islamic calendar was established on scientific non-political foundations. Colonization added to modern scientific confusions but great progress towards a modern scientific Unified World Islamic Calendar involving Muslim governments, national bodies, Islamic Organisations (OIC, COMSTECH, Rabeta, RISEAP), Ulema, and scientists and thousands of grass roots people has been made. Use of Advance calculations with 3 variations is now norm in all countries and communities.

I became interested in the astronomy of moon sighting while working in rocket-borne space programme at Adelaide University under an international Australian research fellowship starting 1970 but later moved to Malaysia to spearhead this project sucessfully.

I found a dozen criterion (conjunction, moon’s age, moonset time, expected visibility, etc.) and combinations and variations resulting in nearly 40 different criterion in use. Some countries used up to 4 different criterion in 12 month calendar!

Also, key cities and towns adding up to several thousand locations worldwide served as reference.

First I had to combine all the ‘criteria for expected visibility’ based on physics and observations developed over two thousand years (Incas, Chinese, Hindus, Babylonians and Muslims) into a single modern criterion using ‘’First’’ set of fast computers installed in Australia (CDC), Malaysia (IBM) and Italy (Euro).

These computers also enabled me to study expected global visibility of the crescent moon (Imkane Ruyah) on same evening on consecutive days, months, and years to un-

derstand this: if we sight the new evening moon at one place, what will happen to moon sighting to the east, west, north, and south?

The answer for the first time ever became a modern breakthrough enabling the development of a unified World Islamic Calendar shown in the illustration (growing dark and white circles) and global visibility line or the International Lunar Date Line (ILDL).

The ILDL visibility line is now used worldwide (UK Royal Observatory, US Naval Almanac Office, etc. and electronic portals) and led to scores of papers and books.

The 50-year old International Islamic Calendar Programme (IICP) was supported through much research and expositions to implement the ILDL system by:

• 3 major working fellowships by UK Nuffield Foundation (London University observatory), Kuwait Science Foundation (ICTP Italy), and Trieste Centre Fellowship.

• 5 working visits including 3 to Saudi Arabia via Science Centre (KACST Riyadh), one each to Iran, Turkey, and to Australia, New Zealand and Fiji through RISEAP.

• 40 expository lectures across North America, Europe, Africa-Middle East, Asia, Australasia, and Malaysia.

• Resolutions from 15 major conferences in various countries, via a three point implementation plan for unified Imkane Ruyah system.

So far, use of 40 criterion is reduced to 3, applied at 4 locations (down from 3000). We need to make a bit more progress inshaAllah.

I finish it with poet Majrooh Sultanpuri’s couplet (Mein Akela hi chala tha..): I set off alone towards my goal but; People continued to come along and carvan continued to develop.

Prof Ilyas taught physics at Adelaide University, in Malaysia revived modern global Islamic Astronomy, published numerous books, recognized in Noble Peace Prize 2007 to IPCC .

TOP: In the breakthrough research on global visibility of new crescent moon, I found that at each latitude (growing dark and white circles), there is a point at which crescent visibility becomes possible ‘First’. East of this point, sighting new moon is increasingly difficult but to the west, sighting is rapidly easy (bigger and brighter crescent) with continuity. I named the connecting ‘First points of expected global visibility’, International Lunar Date Line (ILDL); it enables us to test a sighting claim easily. Lower Frame: The above outcome resulted in the development of Unified International Islamic Calendar and leading to some of the published works shown in the lower frame.

Love beyond boundaries: Jesus and his timeless wisdom

Waseem Ahmad

In the vast tapestry of Islamic faith, a captivating love story unfolds between Muslims and Jesus Christ, known as Prophet Isa (a) in Arabic. While Islam acknowledges Jesus as a revered prophet, his teachings and exemplary character ignite a profound affection within the hearts of Muslims in today’s diverse and interconnected world.

Join us on an enchanting journey as we explore the deep bond and admiration Muslims hold for Jesus, and the timeless wisdom he imparted, transcending religious boundaries.

Within Islamic belief, Jesus occupies a distinguished position as one of the mightiest messengers of Allah (God). The Quran, a sacred revelation, affirms his miraculous birth to the Virgin Mary, his divine ability to perform miracles, and his unwavering devotion to God.

For Muslims, Jesus is a cherished prophet chosen to guide and inspire humanity, embodying qualities that resonate at the core of their faith.

In our modern, diverse society, Jesus’ teachings hold universal significance and offer valuable lessons for people of all backgrounds. His emphasis on monotheism,

compassion, love for one’s fellow human beings, and acts of kindness and charity strike a chord within hearts yearning for unity and understanding.

Muslims, along with people from various faiths and walks of life, find solace, guidance, and a common thread connecting their spiritual journeys in the timeless wisdom of Jesus.

In the Islamic tradition, Mary, the mother of Jesus, shines as a revered figure of unparalleled virtue and faith. The Quran portrays her as an exemplar of piety, purity, and unwavering devotion to Allah.

Muslims honor and respect Mary as a symbol of faith, strength, and moral rectitude, embracing her as a source of inspiration in navigating the challenges of our diverse world.

Jesus’ teachings of love, forgiveness, and the pursuit of peace resonate powerfully in our modern, interconnected society.

Muslims, along with people of various faiths, embrace his call for compassion, empathy, and reconciliation, recognizing the transformative power of these values in fostering harmonious relationships and building bridges across cultural and religious divides.

By upholding Jesus’ message of peace, Muslims actively contribute to a world yearning for unity, respect, and cooperation.

In a time marked by global challenges and increased interconnectedness, Muslims and Christians alike anticipate the return of Jesus as a just leader and righteous judge, symbolizing a future of peace and justice.

This shared belief in a brighter tomorrow further deepens the love and reverence Mus-

lims hold for Jesus, inspiring them to join hands with people of diverse backgrounds in working towards a world of understanding, harmony, and shared prosperity.

In this extraordinary love story between Muslims and Jesus, the connection transcends religious boundaries and finds relevance in the diverse tapestry of modern life.

Muslims, along with individuals from various faiths and backgrounds, draw inspiration from Jesus’ timeless teachings to promote justice, compassion, and love in their interactions with others.

By cherishing his enduring wisdom, they strive to create a world where differences are celebrated, and unity is embraced.

Across faiths, love knows no boundaries.

Muslims’ affection for Jesus radiates through the tapestry of their faith, igniting a flame of devotion and appreciation for the man who walked the Earth with divine purpose.

In today’s diverse world, Muslims find solace, inspiration, and a profound connection with Jesus, embracing his teachings as a guiding light that illuminates their path towards a more inclusive, compassionate, and harmonious society.

Prof Dr Mohammad Ilyas

Federal budget back in black after 15 years

Taxes

The Australian federal budget 2023-2024 presented on Tuesday 9 May by the Treasurer Jim Chalmers is prudently calibrated for providing cost of living relief while not making Australia’s inflation problem worse in the economy. The centrepiece of the budget is the $14.6 billion cost of living relief package aimed at supporting households and small businesses.

These substantial relief measures will boost overall disposable income in the economy and it can add to inflation next year, even if fairly immaterially.

After 15 years, Australian federal budget is back in black with a modest surplus of $4.2 billion in 2022-23.

The economic growth is expected to slow to 1.5% in 2023–24, before recovering to 2.25% in 2024–25. In 2023-24, inflation is expected to be 3.25%, wage growth is 4% and the rate of unemployment is 4.25%.

The salient measures of the budget are briefly provided below:

Healthcare

The budget allocated $3.5 billion over 5 years to provide free bulk-billed consultations to about 12 million pensioners, concession cardholders and children under the age of 16. From 1 September 2023, over 6 million Australians with chronic diseases will be eligible to get two month’s supply of vital medicines for the price of one prescription.

Environment

The Budget invests $4 billion in Australia’s plan to become a renewable energy superpower which would position us to be a world leading hydrogen producer at places like Wollongong.

It allocated $1 billion to provide low-cost loans for double-glazing, solar panels and other improvements that will make homes cool in summer and warm in winter.

It made an allocation of $302 million to help farmers transition to a low-emission future and lift agricultural sustainability; $310 million in tax incentives for small businesses to invest in energy efficiency and $121 million to establish a federal agency called Environmental Protection Australia.

Defence

The budget allocated $2 billion to upgrade Australian Defence Force bases in the

north including Darwin, Townsville and the Keeling Islands; $2.5 billion to manufacture guided weapons for sea mines; $1.6 billion for long-range strike missiles and systems and $591 million is given to Advance Strategic Capabilities Accelerator for Defence innovation, science and technology programs.

To curb China’s regional ambitions in the Pacific, the budget allocated an economic and security package of $2 billion for 202324 which will allow more people-to-people programs and deployments of soldiers, sailors and police in this region.

Aged care

From 1 July 2023, over 250,000 aged care employees will receive a 15% pay rise which would average around $200 a week. This will cost the federal government $11.3 billion over the next 4 years, till 30 June 2027. The budget allocates $169 million for 9,500 home care packages, giving elderly Australians access to be cared for at home.

Childcare

From 1 July 2023, over 1.2 million families will pay less for childcare, covering up to 90% for those eligible, costing $9 billion over the next 4 years. Up to 75,000 early childhood educators can access paid professional development at the cost of $72.4 million. Over 180,000 families will benefit under Paid Parental Leave of 20 weeks at a cost of $532 million over the next 4 years.

Rental assistance

Commonwealth rental assistance will be increased by 15% or $31 extra a fortnight for people renting in the private real estate market and community housing sector. This will benefit over 1.1 million households, rising their rental assistance from $157.20 to $180.80 for singles and $208.74 to $240.10 for tenants with 3 or more children at a total cost of $2.7 billion over the next 5 years.

First Home Buyer Guarantee Scheme

From 1 July 2023, this scheme including the Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee Scheme, which allows couples to purchase a house with a 5% deposit, will be expanded to include any two eligible borrowers such as siblings and friends. It will no longer be limited to a spouse and de facto couples.

The scheme is also expanded to non-first home buyers who have not held a property interest in Australia within the previous 10 years and permanent residents. The budget allocated $2 billion to the National Housing Finance and Investment Corporation for building more social and affordable housing for Australians.

Welfare payments

From 20 September 2023, over 1.1 million Australians receiving JobSeeker, Austudy, Youth Allowance and other income support will take home an extra $40 a fortnight. Income support recipients aged over 55 will receive an extra $92.10 a fortnight.

This measure will cost the taxpayers $4.9 billion over the next 5 years. Parents receiving the Single Parenting Payment will receive $922.10 a fortnight until their youngest child turns the age of 14, increased from the age of 8. Over 57,000 single parents will benefit from this measure with an outlay of $1.9 billion in the next 5 years.

Superannuation

From 1 July 2026, employers will be required to pay superannuation contributions to superannuation funds at the same time as wages are paid, weekly or fortnightly, benefiting over 8.9 million Australian superannuation account holders.

An allocation of $40 million is made for a broader crackdown on unpaid superannuation and tax by medium and large businesses which is forecast to raise over $440 million in the next 4 years.

From 1 July 2024, to enhance supply of rental properties the budget provides a new tax incentive for built-to-rent houses/units, cutting the foreign owned Managed Investment Scheme withholding tax from 30% to 15%. Depreciation rate will be increased from 2.5% to 4% for new built-to-rent properties when construction starts after 9 May 2023.

From 1 July 2026, earnings on superannuation account balances exceeding $3 million will attract a tax rate of 30%. Earnings on balances below $3 million will continue to be taxed at the concessional rate of 15%. Approximately, 0.5% of Australians or around 80,000 people will be subject to this measure.

Tobacco tax will be increased by 5% annually in the next 3 years. From 1 January 2024, large Australian multinationals and the Australian operations of large foreign multinationals will pay an effective tax rate of at least 15%.

From 1 July 2023, changes in Petroleum Resource Rent Tax will generate an additional $2.4 billion for the budget. From 1 July 2023, small business Instant Asset Writeoff Scheme will be lowered from $150,000 to $20,000. Only businesses with maximum annual turnover of $10 million will qualify, down from $500 million.

Migration

Australia is expecting over 1.5 million migrants in the next 4 years, to 30 June 2027. Of which, NSW is expected to receive over 578,000 migrants in the same period. In 2022-23, around 400,000 people arrived in Australia which will gradually reduce to around 260,000 people a year.

Other measures

From 1 July 2023, ASIO is provided $130 million over the next 2 years to track highrisk terror offenders after they have been released at the end of their sentences; $365 million is allocated for the referendum on introducing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to the Parliament; $733 million over the next 3 years is given to National Disability Insurance Scheme to rein in its costly and problem-plagued operations; $112 million to support the operations of the National Australia Day celebrations; $45 million for the preservation of Sydney Harbour and $102 million to support Australian businesses for integrating quantum computing and artificial intelligence into their operations.

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

Islamic perspective on strategic planning

Imam Ali

Strategic Planning (SP) is a critical management function that sets a vision for the future and charts a road map to achieve desired outcomes. This practice is rather patchy among not-for-profit (NFP) Muslim entities in Australia; more often than not a wish list of projects is incorrectly construed as a strategic plan. Unenlightened leadership, the cost of hiring a strategic planner, competing priorities and political expediency may be the causal factors of this planning snag.

Much of the contemporary planning practice has evolved in the West, compelling Muslim NFP organisations wishing to undertake SP to first harmonise SP with Islamic Sharia. This article attempts to provide an Islamic perspective on SP.

Noble examples of strategic planning can

be found in the seerat (biography) of Prophet Muhammad (s): His emigration to Madinah was meticulously planned; a group of believers were sent to Abyssinia to seek refuge from persecution and the conclusion the Treaty of Hudaibya with the Quraish.

It can therefore be reasonably presumed that SP is in the DNA of Islamic organisations.

Three fundamental Islamic principles need to be integrated into the conventional SP methodology to make the strategic plan relevant to the needs of Islamic organisations.

The first is tawheed, the oneness of Allah. A strategic plan should enable every Muslim in the community to become His obedient servant, and engage in activities that please the All Mighty. SP from an Islamic perspective is as temporal as it is spiritual.

Second is shariah which shows the way to live the life according to the Quran and Hadith appropriately informed by the prevailing societal norms, rules, regulations and technology.

Third is akhlaq, the practice of good deeds for the humanity to get Allah’s blessing and

mercy. Allah says in the Quran, “Will the reward for goodness be anything but goodness” (Quran 55:60)

SP can also strengthen accountability; the office holders can be held to account for any delays in projects.

Integral to SP is the scan of the operating environment that yields not only external threats and opportunities but it also identifies internal strengths and weakness of the organisation. By addressing the gaps in its capabilities, the organisation can enhance its capacity and improve its governance. `

Importantly, the SP involves revisiting the foundational purpose of the organisation. Clarity on this score guides the organisation in formulating its strategic goals. The SP process forces the organisation to identify a set of values which is the glue that holds it together and which supports its mission and vision.

It is good planning practice to be informed of the aspirations and values of the wider Australian society. Halal slaughtering is a case in point: How should a Muslim perform this rite in the face

of greater animal welfare concerns in the general public. This and many other similar challenges facing Islamic societies should be canvassed widely in the community as part of the consultation process; meaningful community participation in the SP process ensures greater ownership of projects and services by the Ummah.

Needs assessment, a critically important component of SP, should be evidence based. A wealth of demographic information can be found in the 2021 Census data which can be appropriately extrapolated to obtain some clues on the needs of different segments of the population. The Census data need to be further validated with local surveys and focus group discussions.

The old adage reminds us that, “Failing to plan is planning to fail!”. The process is as important as the strategic plan itself.

Imam Ali is the former President of Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ) and Ex-Director of Minarah College. He is a community advocate based in Sydney, Australia

Dr Abul Jalaluddin

A high school student’s perspective on Ramadan 2023

Social Spotlights

Rand Faied

Ramadan is the 9th month in the Islamic calendar. It is a communal celebration where Muslims Celebrate worldwide with fasting, night prayers and charity.

Ramadan is celebrated as it is the month in which the Quran was received by the Prophet Muhammed (s) from God.

Muslims abstain from food and drink from dawn to dusk in the month of Ramadan.

The month of Ramadan consists of 29-30 days depending on the moon sighting due to the course of the lunar calendar.

Muslims fast during Ramadan as God has commanded Muslims to do so. Mentioned in the Quran in Chapter 2 Verse 183.

“O you who believe! SAWM (Fasting) is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may acquire God’s Consciousness.” (Quran 2:183)

The word used in the above verse in Arabic is Sawm which means abstinence, self-restraint.

Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, self-improvement and importantly gaining God’s consciousness. Fasting is one part of the aspect of Ramadan. In this holy month, Muslims are called forward to be more generous and charitable.

When Muslims Fast they abstain from eating, drinking during the day and foul language. Muslims believe that the fasting process helps to attain self-discipline, patience and mindfulness of the blessings.

Fasting helps me to understand how people with lack of food and clean water will

feel. Which also helps me empathise with their pain.

This year’s Ramadan was quite different compared to the last 2-3 years of Ramadan as we were not going through lockdown or the covid 19 pandemic. This year we were able to go pray Taraweeh and break our fast in the mosque with ease.

The Ramadan of communal celebrations and congregational prayers with my friends had commenced again, I was able to do everything that I couldn’t since almost 2020 Ramadan.

There were no restrictions in place this year allowing our local mosque, Townsville Mosque to hold an open Iftar inviting many non-Muslims to ask questions and understand how the breaking of the fast works. Many non-Muslims enjoyed this event and gave positive feedback which I believe was a great way to make people aware of Islam.

The end of Ramadan is much anticipated, however, it’s sad that Ramadan has come to an end. Muslims celebrate Eid (Celebrations) at the completion of Ramadan, which is called Eid Ul Fitr. On this day, Muslims come together to share food, exchange gifts, see friends and family.

This time is used to remember the importance of the completion of Ramadan and not succumbing to the worldly distractions.

Ramadan is an outcome-based month as whatever was done during the month is strongly advised to continue outside of the month. This brings us closer to God and makes us a better person spiritually, physically and mentally.

Sadia Shareef is a high school student based in Townsville, QLD. She is passionate about writing topics that affect our society & humanity.

Today I had the honour to attend a very special event organised by Benevolence Australia

The graduation of 7 marriage mentors.

I can not describe how proud I am of each and every one of them.

Really amazing men & women who are now trained and ready to help newly married couples to have meaningful relationships. A great initiative that is much need in our community.

Congratulations my dears

As part of the Muslim Leadership program, ISRA Academy took the mentees to ABC to experience the media in a different way. They found it very insightful but also had lots of fun. Thank you for organising the visit Erwin.

Sadia Shareef

My two sisters (Noor and Maryam) and I, waiting to break our fast.

Zuleyha Keskin

Self-care Seminars

Journaling Workshop

Paint & Sip

Chai Chat

DIY Scrub Workshop

Drum Healing Workshop

Henna

Care Bags