On Monday evening 1 December 2025, the city of Sydney witnessed a spectacular community leaders’ dinner organised by the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC) with the participation of the Federation’s National Sharia Board (ANSB) and under the auspices of the Grand Mufti of Australia, Sheikh Riyad El-Rifai.
The event was held in honour of the visit of the Mufti of Tripoli and North Lebanon, Sheikh Dr Mohammad Imam, as a tribute to his distinguished efforts in strengthening ties between the Muslim community in the diaspora and the spiritual authorities in Lebanon and in consolidating cooperation between religious institutions both domestically and abroad.
The occasion was attended by a wide array of religious, political, and social figures, including Sheikh Malik Zeidan, representative of Dar al-Fatwa of Lebanon in Australia; former MP Othman Alameddine; President of the Lebanese Muslims Association, Hafez Alameddine; Sheikh Yahya Safi, Director of Religious Affairs at the Lebanese Muslims Association; Malaysian Minister Dato Abdul Latif bin Mirasa; Deputy Director-General of Malaysia’s Department of Islamic Development (JAKIM), General Mohammad Ajib Ismail; President of Jamiatul Ulema Australia, Sheikh Abdul Quddus al-Azhari; and Sheikh Shafiq Rahman Abdullah Khan, founder and Director-General of the Islamic Cultural Centre and President of King Faisal Colleges in Sydney.
Also present were numerous association leaders and representatives, municipal officials, business leaders, doctors, engineers, lawyers and community figures, in a gathering that reflected the unity of the Muslim community and its appreciation for its religious leadership and longstanding Islamic institutions.
The program opened with a speech by the Grand Mufti of Australia, Sheikh Riyad El-Rifai, who warmly welcomed the distinguished guest and praised the historic nature of the visit.
He emphasized its importance at a time when the Muslim community in Australia is in need of scholarly and spiritual guidance to strengthen its awareness and cohesion amid contemporary challenges.
He expressed his hope that such visits would continue, wishing that circumstances would soon allow a visit by the Grand Mufti of Lebanon, Sheikh Dr Abdul Latif Derian, which the community eagerly awaits.
This was followed by an address from the Mufti of Tripoli and North Lebanon, Sheikh Dr Mohammad Imam, who highlighted the higher values and principles that underpin the humanitarian mission, foremost among them reform, integrity and working for the betterment of society and humanity at large.
He affirmed that Muslims are called to stand as a strong barrier against anything that obstructs the path of goodness, and that cooperation in righteousness and piety is the light that guides society toward stability and progress.
He also expressed his delight at witnessing the diversity, cooperation and harmony among members of the community in Australia, considering this model one that should be invested in to advance the prosperity of this generous nation.
He concluded by extending his gratitude to the hosts, scholars and attendees, appreciating the genuine affection and respect he experienced.
The gathering concluded with remarks from AFIC President Dr Rateb Jneid, who expressed his deep appreciation for the visit of Mufti Imam, affirming the profound impact it had on the hearts of the Muslim community in Australia through the knowledge, guidance and spiritual inspiration he conveyed.
He voiced his hope that such blessed encounters would recur, as they bring immense benefit and provide opportunities to draw from the Mufti’s vast knowledge and experience, thereby strengthening religious awareness and reinforcing bonds within the community. In closing, he extended heartfelt thanks to all attendees, considering their presence a clear expression of trust, respect and sincere goodwill.
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