Young Indonesian Muslim Leaders to Experience Multicultural Australia

A delegation of young Indonesian Muslim leaders- Nikmatullah from Lombok, Helma Malini from West Kalimantan, Fauza Masyhudi from Padang and Rita Pranawati from Jakarta-departed for Australia on Sunday on a bilateral exchange program aimed at strengthening understanding and links among young leaders of both countries.

Australian Ambassador to Indonesia Bill Farmer said he hoped the visit would contribute to a better understanding in Indonesia about multiculturalism in Australian society and the role of Islam in Australia.

“Islam in Australia is a dynamic, evolving story with a rich history, and one of which our country can be extremely proud,” the Ambassador said.

“Australia’s 400,000 Muslims, made up of over 70 different ethnic backgrounds – including Indonesia - have made an enormous contribution to the success of contemporary, diverse Australia.”

The program aims to provide opportunities for emerging leaders in the Indonesian Muslim community to engage their counterparts in Australia on a range of important issues affecting people in both countries. Participants will also have the opportunity to tour the “You Am I” exhibition by Australian Muslim artists in Melbourne sponsored by the Islamic Council of Victoria and Victoria’s Hume City Council.

This is the first of three delegations from Indonesia scheduled to visit Australia under the Australia-Indonesia Institute (AII) Muslim Exchange Program between March-June 2010.

In May, five young Muslim leaders from Australia will make a reciprocal visit to Indonesia to learn firsthand about Indonesia’s diverse, democratic and tolerant society and to meet community, education and religious leaders, academics, government officials and media representatives.

This Muslim Exchange Program was established by the Australian Government through the Australia-Indonesia Institute in 2002.

Over the past two decades, the Institute has fulfilled a unique and vital role in fostering friendship and understanding between Australia and Indonesia through projects in the arts, music, education, youth, civil society, interfaith, media and sport.

Media Enquiries:
Sanchi Davis (Cultural Attaché) Phone 2550 5260, Mobile 0811 936302