Australia's Muslim community is celebrating the opening of a massive new mosque that took more than a decade to plan and build.

Melbourne's Grand Mosque in Tarneith cost Australian Muslims $8.5 million, all of which was raised in the form of donations, reports bbabo.net citing ABC News. An additional cultural and sports center is planned to be built next to the mosque.

“Everyone hugs and expresses their joy,” said local Muslim leader Rifai Rahim. “This project started back in 2008… Of the achievements of my life, this is perhaps the best.”

The 37-year-old imam of the new mosque, Said Varsama Bulkhan, said that charitable events will be held in the religious building, psychological assistance will be provided to local residents in the mosque, if necessary, and various entertainment and educational events for children are planned here.

“This is not just a mosque for Muslims. And this is not just a mosque for the older generation. This is a mosque for everyone,” said the imam.

bbabo.Net