“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,” Aly said at the handover event.
During the visit, the Australian minister was accompanied by the Australian Ambassador to Indonesia, Rod Brazier. They were welcomed by special staff of the Minister of Religion, Farid Saenong.
Minister Aly handed over books containing information about Australian culture, the history of Australian Muslims, and Australia’s multiculturalism and diversity at the Australian Reading Corner of the Istiqlal Mosque Library, which opened on July 8, 2025.
The Reading Corner was opened as part of Australia’s efforts to support interfaith relations between Australia and Indonesia and increase cross-cultural understanding between the two countries through the donation of hundreds of Australian book collections.
Australia and Indonesia, Aly said, have a relationship that goes beyond that of mere neighbors. The two countries have also enjoyed a long and enduring friendship.
“For me to be able to come here and meet with Dr. Farid and to all the beautiful people who are hosted here at the mosque is actually something that gives me a very great sense of pride, as it does for all of the Australian people as well,” she remarked.
During the visit, Aly also interacted and chatted with children from Madrasah Istiqlal Jakarta.
She said she was happy to meet the children, who spoke English well and had good knowledge of Australian animals.
“They are learning very, very quickly, and they know about koalas and they know the difference between a koala and a kangaroo, which is pretty good,” she observed.
Meanwhile, Saenong welcomed Aly’s visit and expressed hopes for closer relations between Indonesia and Australia.
“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.
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Translator: Katriana
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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