Renowned Turkish author, poet, and academic professor Iskender Pala, known for his works that intertwine Ottoman history and Islamic culture, witnessed the conversion of his Japanese daughter-in-law, Rena Saito, to Islam during a ceremony held at the Istanbul Mufti's Office.

According to a statement from the Provincial Mufti's Office, Saito, who is married to Alperen Ahmed Pala, embraced Islam in a ceremony overseen by Provincial Mufti Safi Arpaguş. 

During the event, Saito recited the Shahada, officially embracing Islam. Arpaguş congratulated her, providing insights into the core beliefs, practices, and ethical values of Islam. He noted that her conversion marked the beginning of a new and pure phase in her life and wished her tranquility and happiness.

Following the presentation of her conversion certificate, a religious wedding ceremony was held. Pala, present at the ceremony, offered his congratulations to his daughter-in-law and son.

After the prayers, Saito received a Japanese translation of the Quran, along with a collection of Islamic teachings and other materials in Japanese, published by the Presidency of Religious Affairs.