KSA gives $1m in donation to Islamic Museum in Australia

The Kingdom has donated $1 million to the Islamic Museum in Australia (IMA). Presenting a check to Australian Foreign Minister Julie Joseph, Saudi Ambassador Nabil bin Mohammed Al-Saleh said the donation was given by the Saudi leadership in order to promote human values among nations in support of peaceful co-existence among all communities. Al-Saleh said that the Kingdom was interested in projecting the correct image of Islam.
The ceremony took place in Melbourne on the first anniversary of the Islamic Museum in Australia. In attendance were IMA President Ahmed Fahour and other distinguished guests.
Al-Saleh said the Saudi contribution would support the work of the museum in showing the characteristics of Islamic civilization and culture, which are characterized by diversity and are based on the principles of tolerance and peace.
The ambassador also appreciated the efforts of the Islamic Museum to expand to other states in Australia in order to spread its objectives.
Joseph thanked the Saudi government and the ambassador for taking continued measures to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.
In his remarks, the IMA chief thanked Custodian of the Two Holy mosques King Salman for the contribution, which will strengthen a better understanding of Islam.
The Islamic Museum was formally opened last year in Melbourne in the presence of the Australian minister of finance and the Saudi ambassador. A number of Australian officials and representatives of Islamic communities were also present.
The museum is a not-for-profit foundation founded in May 2010 for the establishment of the the first Islamic Museum in Australia. It aims to showcase the rich artistic heritage and contributions of Muslims in Australia and abroad through the display of artworks and artifacts.
The museum showcases a range of Islamic art, including architecture, calligraphy, paintings, glass, ceramics and textiles. Islamic arts date from the 7th century and include the different artistic styles and cultural influences of various cultures that came under Islamic rule. It also aims to promote new and established Islamic artists, both local and international.
The aim of the museum is to feature the artistic and historical achievements of Muslims internationally and more importantly in Australia. It will provide unique cross-cultural and educational services offering fascinating insights into the Muslim Australian experience for visitors and school groups.
The IMA aims to continue the proud tradition in Australia of working with communities, cultures, faiths and developing centers for education.
The center will provide educational and cross-cultural instruction and showcase the artistic and cultural heritage of Muslims in Australia and in Muslim societies everywhere. It aims to foster community harmony and facilitate an understanding of the values and contributions of Muslims to Australian society.
Its objective is to promote community harmony and mutual understanding by sharing the arts, history, culture and heritage of Muslim communities in Australia with the general public.