The Australasian Muslim Times AMUST marked a significant milestone in Sydney on Sunday 15 September 2024 at the Highline Venue in Bankstown with its theme “AMUST10: Ink & Impact,” marking a decade of AMUST’s contribution to independent multicultural journalism in Australia and paid tribute to the legacy of its late co-founder, Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad OAM, whose life’s work was dedicated to nurturing the Muslim community.
The celebration was a powerful reminder of the role of independent media with the keynote address delivered by Senator Fatima Payman, in shaping public discourse and championing justice for all, especially for the Palestinians’ ongoing genocide for almost a year, a reverberating concern at the event.
The gala dinner brought together a diverse audience of over 300 attendees, including, writers and supporters of AMUST, community and interfaith leaders and a large contingent of family and friends of Dr Ahmad.
Central to the evening was the recognition of Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad OAM, whose vision and tireless work laid the foundation for AMUST’s success. Professionally a professor of mechanical engineering and a scholar of Islam, Dr Ahmad was deeply involved in all aspects of volunteer work as a way to serve the Muslim community in Australia for more than half a century.
Dr Ahmad passed away in February 2022, aged 91, leaving behind an enduring legacy of interfaith dialogue, community empowerment, and Islamic education. His influence was felt throughout the event, as speakers fondly remembered his contributions to the Muslim community in Sydney.
The night opened with the recitation of the Holy Qur’an by Dr Hafiz Waliullah Bokhari who recited from Surah Nisa “How is it that you do not fight in the way of Allah and in support of the helpless – men, women and children -who pray: ‘Our Lord, bring us out of this land whose people are oppressors and appoint for us from Yourself, a protector, and appoint for us from Yourself a helper’? “ (Quran 4:75)
Mrs Mehar Ahmad, President of Seena Inc, publishers of AMUST welcomed the guests and spoke about the need for independent media as well as Seena’s ongoing projects, in particular for women and people with disability.
Ink & Impact awards were given to Mrs Roufa Sajeev, Mr Nasim Zereka and Mr Kamal Zrieka for their volunteering and support at Seena community events.
Mr Zia Ahmad, AMUST’s Editor-in-Chief, spoke about the publication’s commitment to independent and unbiased reporting especially regarding the ongoing genocide of Palestinians and the global Zionist lobby’s efforts to suppress the voices of the supporters of Palestine.
“AMUST serves as a platform for diverse voices,” he said. “With the ongoing genocide of Palestinians, we stand tall in disseminating the Palestinian narrative to all Australians in an unbiased way.”
Mr Zia Ahmad then asked for a minute of silence in prayer for the Palestinian journalists killed during the last one year in Gaza deliberately targeted by armed forces of the state of Israel with complete impunity.
Senator Fatima Payman, an Independent from Western Australia, was the keynote speaker for the vent who spoke on the need of independent media in Australia in relation to mainstream media dominated by the rich and the powerful with their vested interests.
She highlighted the vital role of independent media in giving voice to marginalised communities and holding power to account.
Senator Payman, who made headlines for breaking ranks with her former Labor party, focused her remarks on the limitations of mainstream media, which she described as often being driven by corporate interests and acting as “an echo chamber” for the powerful.
She argued that this leads to the silencing of “the voices of everyday Australians,” noting that critical issues like housing affordability, the rising cost of living, climate change, and the recognition of migrant and Indigenous voices are often ignored or misrepresented.
“If you’re like me—and I know you are—you’ve probably seen issues that affect our communities being brushed aside,” Senator Payman remarked, calling attention to how mainstream media fails to tell stories that “truly reflect our lived experiences.”
She contrasted this with independent media, which she described as “brave” for reporting on issues that mainstream outlets often overlook.
“This gives people like you and me… somewhere to turn for truth,” she said, taking aim at media moguls like Rupert Murdoch, whom she accused of promoting division and fear to serve a far-right agenda.
Senator Payman also criticised the lack of diversity in Australia’s media landscape, comparing it to “a beige wall.” Despite Australia being one of the most multicultural societies globally, she pointed out that its media does not reflect this diversity.
She further argued that independent media outlets are often the ones amplifying the voices of migrant workers, young Australians facing university debt, and communities affected by climate change.
“Without independent media, those diverse voices—your voices—risk getting drowned out by the same tired narratives,” she said, urging for more platforms that genuinely reflect the country’s “beautiful patchwork of cultures, religions, and ideas.”
Beyond representation, Payman highlighted the role of independent media as a watchdog, calling it “a sassy, unafraid watchdog that keeps the big guys honest.”
With the support of Gould Studio, AMUST gifted a custom artwork from Hala Sekak, a Melbourne-based artist from Gaza, Palestine, known for her abstract work inspired by her roots. This painting is a heartfelt tribute, centered around the name “”Fatima,”” elegantly surrounded by olive branches, symbolizing peace and resilience. Beside the name, a stunning map of Palestine is crafted from resin, intricately detailed with the names of its cities and colored in the vibrant hues of the Palestinian flag. Hala sent a message saying: Support for the truth requires strength, determination, and courage. When that support comes from a remarkable woman, the sacrifice becomes even greater. My painting is a gift for an extraordinary sister, Fatima, who has continuously stood with the people of Gaza and Palestine, unwavering like the steadfast olive trees. This is a tribute to every brave, strong, and compassionate woman who embodies resilience and generosity.
Her words underscored AMUST’s mission: to provide a platform for voices sidelined by the mainstream media, particularly those advocating for justice in Palestine.
As Senator Payman remarked, independent media like AMUST is a vital force in “shaking things up” and keeping the powerful accountable.
A guest browsing through the art exhibition by Roger Ibn Tyrone.
The event also showcased three exhibition, Palestine art by Roger Ibn Tyrone, Time line of achievements and awards to AMUST as well as life and times of Dr Ahmad and awards that he received.
The entertainment at the event was provided by the Three Rivers Ensemble, a group of highly talented musicians and singers specialising in spiritual music, nasheeds and songs who also sang in support of Palestinians joined by the audience.
The evening included an exciting auction, of framed special issues of AMUST, by Hussin Goss, the popular Muslim auctioneer ever present at Islamic fundraising events from the Gold Coast, raising over almost $5,000 for Human Appeal’s Jenin fund.
After a lavish dinner, the night continued with speaker Dr Mahsheed Ansari, CSU lecturer who is currently working on a research project on Dr Ahmad’s life and legacy.
She recounted her interviews with Dr Ahmad as he reflected on his deep love for Prophet Muhammad (s) and Dr Ahmad’s view of himself as a “revert” to Islam due to his rediscovery of the faith as a young man who then dedicated his life in serving Islam as a Quranic scholar, an activist and a community leader through dialogue and establishing diverse organisations and institutions that still thrive today.
A tribute video honouring Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad was followed by heartfelt reflections from community leaders, many of whom were either part of the organisations he founded or had collaborated closely with him.
Father Patrick McInerney from the Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations reflected, “Friendship is a great achievement, and I am grateful that Dr Qazi Ahmad was my friend.”
Rabbi Zalman Kastel from Together for Humanity shared how Dr Ahmad would speak to him on the importance of promoting interfaith respect and friendship, while Mr Elias Attia from the Islamic Council of NSW highlighted Dr Ahmad’s forward-thinking vision for the Muslim community in NSW.
Mr Chaaban Omran from Australian Islamic Mission congratulated AMUST for honouring Dr Ahmad, a founding member of AIM back in 1972 praying for Al Firdaus for him and others who helped build the community.
Mr Omar Tariq representative of Sydney University Muslim Students Association (SUMSA) talked about Dr Ahmad’s being the founding President of SUMSA in 1972 and his guidance in nurturing students for Islamic activism at the campus.
Mr Aamir Ahmad, President of the Multicultural Eid Festival & Fair (MEFF), spoke on his grandfather’s vision of inclusivity and cultural exchange, saying, “This remains a guiding force behind MEFF’s success.”
Similarly, Mr Zohair Ahmad, President of the Islamic Foundation of Education & Welfare (IFEW), acknowledged Dr Ahmad’s dedication to Islamic education, interfaith understanding and community welfare which “has laid the foundation of everything I do today.”
Mr Riyaz Akhtar from the Aligarh Muslim University Alumni of Australia referred to Dr Ahmad as a mentor, affectionately calling him “Abbu,” who established its scholarship project back in 1996
Mrs. Sumaiya Quasim from Canberra Islamic School remembered Abbu as a relentless visionary, constantly pushing for growth and innovation. She also honoured Mrs Jamal Ara Ahmad, his late wife, stating, “Ammi (Mother), Jamal Ara, was by his side every step of the way.”
Finally, Mrs Najia Khalil, Dr & Mrs Ahmad’s daughter, spoke of her mother’s quiet yet powerful influence, particularly on the women she helped empower. “Her quiet power truly left an enduring legacy,” she remarked, highlighting the strength and compassion Mrs Ahmad embodied in her community work.
The evening concluded with the the presentation of the Ink & Impact awards, given to individuals and organisations who have tirelessly advocated for the Palestinian cause and against the ongoing genocide perpetrated by Israel.
The awards recognised the importance of truth-telling and activism in promoting justice, community support, and the defense of human rights.
Awardees included OnePath Network, Pearls & Irritations’ John Mahoney, Princess R Lakshman, The Australia Palestine Advocacy Network, Dr Randa Abdel-Fattah, Suprovat Zaman, Mahamed Omar, and Dr Mehreen Faruqi.
These individuals and organisations have made significant contributions to advocacy for Palestine and the broader struggle for justice, ensuring that the stories of the persecuted and oppressed are heard.
The event was generously sponsored by Human Appeal Australia, AFIC, Salaam, Halal Certification Authority, Amanah Islamic Finance, Catholic Cemeteries and Crematoria, Think Studio, and Western Grammar School showcasing the collective effort behind this influential news media platform.
The representatives of the sponsoring organisations also addressed the audience appreciating the media services provided by AMUST, acknowledging the contribution of Dr Ahmad to the Muslim community as well as giving a glimpse of services provided by their institutions.
Dr Rateb Jneid talked about Dr Ahmad being the founding President of AFIC 1976-1977 and collaboration between AFIC and AMUST since 1991.
Mr Omar Al-Jamal representing HAA Director Bashar Al-Jamal pointed out HAA advertising and news making collaboration with AMUST again since its first issue in January 1991 and great friendship between Dr Ahmad and Mr Bashar Al-Jamal spanning almost four decades.
Professor Talal Yassine acknowledged the presence of movers and shakers present at the event and his commitment to support AMUST in its services as an independent media outlet.
Dr Anisa Buckley who has close relationship with the Ahmad family since her very childhood showcased Amanah services to the community.
Nadia El-Mouelhy talked about services provided by the Halal Certification Authority, its founding by her dad Mr Mouelhy and collaboration of his father with Dr Ahmad at AFIC premises during the 1980’s.
Mr Subhan Ali from WGS recalled his time spent with Dr Ahmad in Papua New Guinea where foundations for an Islamic organisation and mosques were laid with initiatives of Dr Ahmad during the early 1980’s.
Mrs Sakinah Ahmad, Seena Inc secretary, remarked in her closing vote of thanks: “His vision of unity and community has brought together generations of people, and it’s heartening to see his ideals continue to inspire us as we gather here today.”
The role of independent media, clearly distinct from the infected corporate media, has never been so important.
AUKUs the loss of sovereignty Tweedledum and Tweedledee political parties, prostration to genocidal maniacs, vilification of First Nations, only confronted by independent media.
Once the ABC could be believed nut it too has been infected.
AMUST has a vital role to play