Suprovat Sydney report: A grand Iftar dinner was hosted on Wednesday 12 March 2025 by Hon. Tony Burke MP (Minister for Home Affairs, Minister for the Arts, Minister for Cyber Security, Minister for Immigration and Multicultural Affairs, Leader of the House, House of Representatives),Hon. Jason Clare MP (Minister for Education, House of Representatives), Hon. Sophie Cotsis MP(Minister for Industrial Relations, and Minister for Work Health and Safety, Member of the Legislative Assembly) , and Hon. Jihad Dib MP (Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister for Youth Justice, Member of the Legislative Assembly) in celebration of the holy month of Ramadan. The event took place at a prestigious venue in Bankstown, bringing together an array of distinguished guests from various sectors of the community.
The evening was attended by numerous Muslim leaders, VIPs, Community Influential Personalities (CIP), community leaders, government officials, and media personnel. The gathering was a testament to the strong relationship between the Muslim community and Australian leaders, highlighting the values of unity, respect, and multicultural harmony.
In their speeches, the hosts expressed their deep appreciation for the contributions of the Muslim community to Australian society. Hon. Tony Burke MP emphasized the importance of inclusivity and respect among diverse communities. Hon. Jason Clare MP echoed similar sentiments, recognizing the role of community leaders in fostering social cohesion. Hon. Sophie Cotsis MP also extended warm wishes for Ramadan, appreciating the significance of Iftar as a moment of togetherness and reflection.
Hon. Jihad Dib MP was absent as he was serving those affected by an emergency disaster. He was on the ground in Lismore, in Alfred’s impacted area, assisting the victims of the natural disaster.
During the sacred month of Ramadan, a time when Muslims gather with family to break their fast, he left the comfort of home and traditional meals to stand in solidarity with those in need. While communities in Bankstown and around the world were observing Iftar, he was on the frontline, helping those battling the devastation.
The community recognizes and honors him as a true hero.
Canterbury Bankstown Mayor Clr Bilal El-Hayek, former Mayor Clr Khal Asfour, former Deputy Mayor Clr Nadia Saleh, Deputy Mayor Clr Khodr Saleh OAM, Clr Rachelle Harika, and NSW Police representative Gandhi Sindyan were delighted to attend the event.
Guests were treated to a lavish spread of traditional dishes, creating an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie. Many attendees expressed gratitude for the opportunity to come together in such a warm and welcoming setting.
The event concluded on a note of unity, with guests exchanging greetings and well wishes for the remainder of the holy month. The Iftar dinner served as a reminder of the strength of Australia’s multicultural identity and the continued efforts of its leaders to promote inclusivity and harmony among all communities.
Abdullah Yousuf, Editor-in-Chief of the only Bangladeshi community publication in Australia, was honoured to be seated at the number one table alongside distinguished guests.
