Australian Minister Donates Books to Istiqlal Mosque Library
The handover took place on Monday during Aly’s visit to the mosque. She was joined by Australian Ambassador to Indonesia Rod Brazier and was welcomed by Farid Saenong, special staff to Indonesia’s Minister of Religious Affairs, according to Antara News.
The book collection includes titles on Australian culture, the history of Muslims in Australia, and the country's multicultural society. The donation is part of a broader initiative launched on July 8, 2025, to promote interfaith and cross-cultural understanding between Australia and Indonesia.
Aly described the occasion as significant, noting her position as Australia’s first female Muslim Cabinet Minister. “It is a great honor for me to be here at the Istiqlal Mosque as Australia’s first female Muslim Cabinet Minister, responsible for international development and multicultural affairs in Australia,” she stated during the event.
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She also engaged with students from Madrasah Istiqlal Jakarta and said she was pleased with their English proficiency and knowledge about Australia.
Aly emphasized the strong ties between the two nations, characterizing them as more than just neighbors and referring to their enduring friendship.
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Saenong welcomed Aly’s visit and expressed optimism about future collaboration. “We welcome the Australian minister’s presence here. And we hope this will leave a positive impression on the minister and Australia during this visit,” he said.
Source: Agencies
