Australia Muslims to counter mainstream image of Islam by TV studio

Members of Australia’s Muslim community have established a $1 million television studio to counter the mainstream portrayal of the Islamic religion in local media.

The “One Path Network” films and edits videos for its YouTube channel. Organizers of the Sydney-based network told ABC News they aim to provide “authentic Islamic knowledge using a professional contemporary approach.

“This is a time where there is a lot of pressure on the Muslim community,” network head Malaz Majanni said.

“Unfortunately, you do find that with the mainstream media, sometimes we are misrepresented, lost in translation and here we are able to make sure that a clear message is sent out,” he said.

The network presents interviews with local officials and religious figures. It also provides its own views on events such as the Sydney siege.

“Our approach was to make sure that it's clear that this act is not an Islamic act,” Majanni said.

“This person (Man Haron Monis) was known to the authorities as a criminal and he had no connection whatsoever with [the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria militant group]. He couldn’t even get the right flag.”

Majanni said the network has been funded by community donations and has over 20 volunteers.

A statement on their own website reads: “The media is an essential part of everyday life and a very powerful tool influencing values and ideas. The world is constantly changing and we are connected more than ever. There are great opportunities in using media to showcase the religion of Islam.

“As we embark on this large scale project, we understand that it will be a long and complex journey, but a necessary one. In order to make this project effective and successful we will be utilizing specialized skill sets from within the community and abroad.”