By Raquel Mustillo
MILLICENT residents heard first-hand about Islamic beliefs and practices as part of a tour aimed at forging partnerships and greater understanding of the religion among country communities.
Islamic and community leaders from the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Adelaide travelled to the region this week to host a Holy Quran exhibition to promote peace, build bridges and break barriers.
Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Adelaide regional missionary Atif Ahmed Zahid outlined the context and historicity of Islam’s holiest book, the foundations of Islam and the fundamental practices and institutions of the religion.
Mr Zahid said the intent of the tour was to dispel misconception about Islamic ideologies, break down stereotypes and educate individuals on the diversity of Muslim identity.
“There are 1.8 billion Muslims around the world and they are very peaceful, loving, and work for the good of their respective country,” he said.
“But nobody mentions that.
“Whenever there is a small incident or someone insane does something stupid, that gives a bad name for all the Muslims.
“We started this campaign so that if someone had a question about Islam, they can ask us personally and then they can look at the information and decide for themselves.”
The event closed with a question and answer session, with attendees quizzing Mr Zahid about the difference between the Bible and the Quran, the Arabic language and Islamic denominations.
Wattle Range mayor Des Noll said the event followed a meeting Ahmadiyya Muslim Community leaders earlier this year to facilitate interfaith harmony among the community.
“Our country is built on diversity and it’s one of our strengths,” he said.
“It gives me great privilege and pride to connect our community to the Muslim community.
“It has been a really positive learning experience and we absolutely welcome the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community to our community and will continue to support them any way we can.”
The Adelaide-based group will return to Millicent in November for the town’s 150th anniversary celebrations.
