Imam Mustenser Qamar says studies show those who have negative perceptions of Muslims, generally have not met one. The far south had not had as much exposure to Islam, Qamar said, and the tour, inviting communities to enjoy a coffee and chat, was designed to make the faith and its followers more accessible. By speaking to Muslims, people would learn that they believed the disruptions caused by Islamic extremists were completely against the teachings of Islam, Qamar said. As part of their visit, True Islam NZ gifted a Quran translated in te Reo Māori to the Invercargill City Library. The Southland Muslim Association also held a Q&A session for the community at the Invercargill Mosque on Sunday as part of a service reflecting on the March 15, 2019 terrorist attacks.

Source: Stuff March 14, 2021 02:03 UTC