Media Release
21 September 2023
Fourteen emerging Australian Muslim community leaders visiting Indonesia as part of the 2023 Australia-Indonesia Muslim Exchange Program (AIMEP) have begun their week long program in Jakarta.
AIMEP focuses on people-to-people exchange and dialogue, aiming to break down stereotypes, build deeper understanding of our respective communities and societies, and foster collaboration and lasting connections. The Australian delegation will visit key organisations and institutions including Nahdlatul Ulama, Muhammadiyah, and Istiqlal Mosque.
“The people-to-people connections made through AIMEP build greater understanding between Indonesia and Australia and enrich both our communities. It’s an opportunity for emerging leaders to experience first-hand the thriving multicultural societies of Indonesia and Australia,” said Chargé d’Affaires at the Australian Embassy Steve Scott.
This year, AIMEP returns to an in-person model after taking place online through 2021-22. The Australian delegates visiting Indonesia this month were among 58 delegates from Indonesia and Australia who took part in the 2021-22 virtual exchange.
2021 Australian delegate and online alumni Dean Mousad said, “It seems so long ago – 2021 – when we were doing our online program for AIMEP. Alhamdulillah, it’s all coming to life and we are going to see each other in the flesh in Indonesia insyaAllah. I’m really looking forward to gaining new knowledge and experiences, and also sharing ours.”
The Australian AIMEP delegates participating in the visit include emerging community leaders from Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, and the Gold Coast. They include youth leaders, entrepreneurs, mental health practitioners, teachers, lawyers, and people working in women’s empowerment.
AIMEP was established in 2002 by the Australian Government through the Australia-Indonesia Institute.
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