Young Indonesian Muslim Leaders Seek Cooperation and Understanding in Australia

A delegation of three young Indonesian Muslim leaders from Jakarta, Yogyakarta and Kupang departed for Australia on Sunday 7 June 2009 on a bilateral exchange program aimed at encouraging mutual understanding and cooperation among young leaders in both countries. They will be in Australia for about two weeks.

Australian Ambassador to Indonesia Bill Farmer said he hoped the visit would contribute to a better understanding in Indonesia of the important role Islam plays in contemporary, multicultural 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, drawn from more than 120 countries – including Indonesia – are a valuable and vibrant part of the social and cultural fabric of our states and territories.”

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 both countries.

The Australia-Indonesia Institute’s Muslim Exchange Program (MEP) 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.

This is the last of three delegations from Indonesia scheduled to visit Australia under the Muslim Exchange Program between March-June 2009.

Media Enquiries:
Sanchi Davis, Cultural Attache Phone 2550 5260, Mobile 0811 936 302