Star

Top cop views

By Lia Bichel

12th November 2009 11:00:10 AM

Victoria Police Assistant

Mr Evans joined police from the Region 5 Multicultural Liaison Unit and clergymen for the inspection and to discuss the role of the mosque in the Greater Dandenong area.

He said it was great to see the renovations progressing.

“I’m very happy,” he said.

“It’s been a long time coming.”

The renovations to the Emir Sultan Mosque, which is run by the Dandenong Turkish Islamic Cultural Society, will be done in three stages. Stage one includes a youth and community centre, Islamic study classes, commercial kitchen, guestroom and canteen.

The second stage includes a health food kiosk and male restrooms.

The third stage includes a morgue (janazah) service, wudu area, library and the main prayer room.

The total estimated cost is about $3.35 million.

The Emir Sultan Mosque hosts a variety of services, beyond daily prayers, to the greater community, including daily Qur’an classes, visits to the local hospitals and prisons, lectures for youth, sporting activities and family barbecue days.

Mr Evans said he believed the renovations were valuable to all residents in Greater Dandenong.

“I can definitely see how the infrastructure is needed so the services can continue,” he said.

“It’s great to see the community support each other.”

Senior Constable Maha Sukkar, who also viewed the renovations, said she looked forward to continue building on the relationship between police and the wider community.

“I think it is important that police build a relationship with the Islamic community, because they are a major part of the region,” she said.

“They play a huge role, and it’s great to see the renovations will support their services.”