On March 1, 2026, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community hosted its annual interfaith symposium, the “Big Iftar,” at the Melton Community Hall. The event attracted over 160 attendees, including more than 100 external guests from diverse backgrounds, fostering unity and dialogue during the holy month of Ramadan.
This gathering brought together residents from Melton and the wider Melbourne area, comprising community members, council representatives, and faith leaders. Participants engaged in discussions that emphasized the values of self-discipline, compassion, charity, and spiritual reflection, all of which are central to the practice of fasting in Islam and other religious traditions.
Following the observance of the fast at sunset, guests shared a communal dinner, which served as a platform for open conversations about cultural understanding and mutual respect. The event highlighted the shared principles that unite various faiths, reinforcing the message of community cohesion.
Imam Atif Zahid, Missionary of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Victoria, expressed satisfaction with the event’s success, stating, “By the grace of Allah, this year’s Big Iftar event was a huge success with over 100 external guests attending tonight’s event. This is a testament to the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community’s efforts to bring the community together during the holy month of Ramadan to break bread and learn about each other’s cultures and traditions.”
He further elaborated on the significance of fasting, saying, “Fasting teaches us self-discipline, empathy, and gratitude. By experiencing hunger, we are reminded of those facing hardship and are inspired to serve humanity. Our faith calls us not only to worship but to contribute positively to the nation and community we proudly call home.”
Local MP Steve McGhie, who represents Melton in the Victorian parliament, praised the event as a reflection of the area’s multiculturalism. “It’s great to be here at the Melton Community Hall with the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association putting on this wonderful event, the Big Iftar. We have many members from our community and many faith leaders here. It’s a great reflection of what Melton and the Western suburbs are all about: multiculturalism, unity, and cohesion within our community.”
The event also received recognition from other faith representatives. Rabbi Ralph Genede OAM, who serves as the VIC Connecting Cultures Program Interfaith and Community Liaison for AJJAC, commended the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community for their hospitality. “I think that the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community here are just incredibly generous and hospitable and warm and welcoming. What I really like is that you live by not only words but actions as well. I think we should support each other at events like what you’re doing, and I think that the motto ‘Love for All’ is something that should be embraced by all Australians.”
As the event concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose and understanding, having participated in a celebration that underscored the importance of interfaith dialogue and collaboration. The Big Iftar not only served as a communal feast but also as a reminder of the values that bind diverse communities together, especially during significant religious observances.
