Australian young Muslim leaders to explore Indonesian Islam

A delegation of young Muslim leaders from Australia arrived in Jakarta early this week to explore Indonesia Islam, Democracy and Interfaith Harmony, an Australian Embassy media release has said.

"It`s important for young Australians to gain a better understanding of the role of religion in Indonesia and to share their views on how Islam contributes to diverse, democratic societies like Australia and Indonesia," Australian Ambassador to Indonesia Bill Farmer said as he welcomed the delegation of his country`s Muslim leaders.

The Australian delegation consists of three women and two men, all of whom are impressive young leaders in the Australian Muslim community.

During their visit to Jakarta, Banten, Yogyakarta and Bandung from 11-25 May 2008, they will meet religious, community and education leaders, civil society, academics and media.

Their program includes attending the Asian Conference on Religion and Peace, to be opened by Vice President Jusuf Kalla and participating in round-table discussions with students and lecturers from prominent Islamic universities and schools.

They will also stay overnight at Darul Qalam Islamic boarding school in Banten and join in monthly Saturday evening prayers and music with renowned poet, writer and speaker Emha Ainun Najib (Cak Nun) in Bantul.

Ambassador Farmer said ...