Iftar Dinner Hosted by WA’s Largest Mosque

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community based in Bibra Lake near Fremantle hosted its Annual Iftar Dinner last weekend.

Iftar refers to the meal that Muslims eat after sunset during the annual month of Ramadan; it is the meal they eat to break their daily fast. And so approximately 300 guests from diverse backgrounds gathered at the Nasir Mosque last Sunday to take time for reflection, and to talk about fasting, faith and what unites us.

On arrival, guests took time to explore a display which explored universal themes across faiths, as well as a reconciliation between faith and scientific enquiry.

The speakers explored these themes further with a focus on fasting. All speakers talked about how fasting is common to the Abrahamic faiths as well as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. It was noted that science is now exploring how fasting is beneficial to health. There was also talk of food, especially of falafel which is a food loved by all peoples, especially those with roots in the Middle East.

The speakers at the Iftar Dinner included local Federal Fremantle MP, Josh Wilson, Mr Anjum Qaisrani, President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Perth, Rabbi David Freilich OAM, former Chief Rabbi at The Perth Hebrew Congregation, Father Giancarlo from St Patrick’s Basilica Fremantle, Imam Syed Warood Janud, Imam of Nasir Mosque as well as City of Cockburn Mayor Logan Howlett and newly elected member for Bibra Lake, Sook-Yi Lee. This is what they said.

‘Fasting is not just abstaining from food—it is spiritual renewal, charity, and communal solidarity. Tonight, we gather to learn how this discipline unites us across faiths.’
Host, Mr Yasser Mirza.

‘Our motto, ‘Love for All, Hatred for None,’ drives us to serve humanity. From Clean Up Australia Day to interfaith dialogue, we strive to foster peace. We are grateful to all of you for accepting our invitation, your presence here multiplies the joy of breaking fast together.’ Mr Anjum Qaisrani.

‘Relecting on today’s event; as someone who has not often experienced fasting, I took some time to learn about its significance. I was struck by the discipline it requires, the gratitude it fosters, and the empathy it cultivates for those who face hardship. These are values that resonate across cultures and faiths, and we are enriched by immersing ourselves in them.’ Mayor Logan Howlett.

‘The Quran and Torah both teach that God’s rainbow—a tapestry of colors side by side—symbolizes our diversity. Tonight, we are that rainbow. Thank you, Ahmadiyya Muslim community, for organizing this ‘beautiful rainbow’ of fellowship.’ Rabbi David Freilich.

‘Faith communities like yours anchor our society in compassion. Fasting teaches discipline and gratitude—values we all cherish. The Ahmadiyya Muslim community exemplifies peace and service—tonight’s meal and warmth are a testament to their dedication. Sharing Iftar here fills me with peace and hope.’ Josh Wilson MP.

‘Fasting is not deprivation but a path to solidarity. When we share resources with the poor, we purify our hearts. The Ahmadiyya Muslim community’s hospitality tonight reflects this spirit of charity and humility.’ Father Giancarlo.

‘Growing up on Christmas Island, my Muslim neighbours taught me Ramadan’s true spirit—kindness and community… The Ahmadiyya Muslim community’s dedication to interfaith harmony uplifts us all. Their volunteerism—hosting events like this, feeding the hungry—strengthens our social fabric. ‘Love for All, Hatred for None’ is not just a motto; it’s a way of life they embody.’ Sook-Yi Lee MLA.

Following the speeches, those from the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community were intoned to prayer at which point guests broke their fast with dates and water. Following the prayer, all shared a delicious three-course meal featuring Goat Karahi (a tender slow-cooked goat in a fragrant tomato-ginger gravy), Butter Chicken (Creamy, spiced tomato curry), and a Chickpea Curry (a vegan-friendly staple infused with aromatic spices), accompanied by saffron-infused spiced rice, warm naan bread, and fresh salad. The meal concluded with a mouth-watering custard trifle layered with sponge cake, fruit, jelly, and whipped cream.

Attending the Iftar Dinner was a reminder that although the world seems more complex and demanding than ever before, here at home there is inclusion, compassion, service, shared understanding and humanity. In the words of Mayor Howlett, it was a moment to pause and ‘to reflect on how we can be better – as individuals and as a community’.

Every Friday, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community WA welcomes visitors to attend and listen to Friday prayers at the Nasir Mosque, and afterwards to meet Muslims and enjoy refreshments.

* By Madeleine Cox. Madeleine Cox was raised on a farm on Binjareb Noongar country and now, together with her New Zealand/Aotearoa husband, lives with her children in Fremantle/Walyalup. She loves exploring places and ideas, and connecting with people and nature. This has prompted Madeleine to start writing independently, after many years work as a corporate and government lawyer, and service on not-for-profit boards in the health and education sectors. For more articles on Fremantle Shipping News by Madeleine, look here.

Editor’s Note: Fremantle Shipping News’ Madeleine Cox and its Editor, Michael Barker were invited guests at the event.

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