Director Report

RZS-CASIS

SYED MUHAMMAD NAQUIB AL-ATTAS
DISTINGUISHED CHAIR OF ISLAMIC THOUGHT

The Director's Report

2019-2021

2021

©RAJA ZARITH SOFIAH CENTRE FOR ADVANCED STUDIES ON
ISLAM, SCIENCE, AND CIVILISATION, UTM

All rights reserved. Not part of this report may be reproduced or
transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical,
including photocopy, recording or any information storage or retrieval

system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Published by:



RAJA ZARITH SOFIAH CENTRE FOR
ADVANCED STUDIES ON ISLAM, SCIENCE

AND CIVILISATION (RZS-CASIS)
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Kuala Lumpur

Jalan Sultan Yahya Petra
54100 Kuala Lumpur, MALAYSIA

Typeset and design by:
Hamzah Masleh

D-17-3, Gurney Heights
Condominium Block D,
Jalan Bukit Keramat, 54000 Kuala

Lumpur

Our Mission



RZS-CASIS seeks to promote post-graduate scholarship and learning for the advancement of
knowledge in the fields of study relating to Islam, Science, and Civilisation and their allied sciences

under the ambit of the worldview of Islam in full cognisance of relevant developments in other
civilisations, especially in the contemporary world. Among its main objectives is to train young scholars

who are intellectually adept to delve into the intricacies of religious thought while simultaneously at
home with (intellectual and) scientific ideas, technologies and socio-economic thought and institutions
of today. These emerging scholars will have the requisite intellectual tools and competent knowledge to

imbibe from the multi-disciplinary program to prepare themselves for future intellectual and
civilisational challenges at home and the world at large.

SYED MUHAMMAD NAQUIB AL-ATTAS
DISTINGUISHED CHAIR OF ISLAMIC
THOUGHT



THE DIRECTOR'S REPORT



2019-2021

Preface Prof. Madya Dr. Khalif Muammar,
Director of RZS-CASIS, UTM
Established in 2011, Centre for Advanced Studies on Islam,
Science and Civilisation (CASIS), Universiti Teknologi 1
Malaysia, aspire to inculcate and maintain the culture of
knowledge and respect for scholars and scholarhip. Within
10 years and through the patronage of Her Royal Highness
DYMM Tuanku Raja Zarith Sofiah binti Almarhum Sultan
Idris Iskandar Al-Mutawakkil Alallahi Shah Afifullah, the
renamed RZS-CASIS has succeeded in becoming one of
the leading Islamic higher education institutions in the
country. Its various academic programmes, seminars, and
public lectures, collaborative engagements with the
community and other organisations, and high quality
research and publications have attracted interests and
participation from students, academics, and members of
the public at regional and international level. To date, 46
students have graduated at masters and doctorate levels
who continue to meaningfully serve the community and
nation in their respective careers. In order to revive the
culture of knowledge in the region and to chart a more
promising future for RZS-CASIS the Centre has
established the SMN Al-Attas Distinguished Chair (“Chair”)
of Islamic Thought and Civilisation. This Chair is named as
such in honor of Tan Sri Prof. Dr. Syed Muhammad
Naquib al-Attas, a renowned Malay Muslim thinker in
contemporary world who also has a very close relationship
with the political, religious and cultural history of Johor.

SMN al-Attas Distinguished Chair of Islamic Thought is 3. To publish the results of its research and studies
established with the objective of invigorating the culture of conducted from time to time for dissemination to the
knowledge at the highest level with the appointment of a highly Muslim world;
qualified scholar with a universal outlook, to deliver a series of
impactful lectures in the field of Islamic thought. The chair 4. To hold conferences and meetings for the reading of
holder is selected from among prominent, internationally papers and the delivery of lectures and for acquisition and
renowned scholars who have studied, researched and written dissemination of knowledge;
extensively on the thought and contribution of SMN al-Attas.
The idea of establishing the chair was presented by Assoc.
The Chair is endowed by Her Royal Highness Raja Zarith Prof. Dr. Khalif Muammar, the Director of RZS-CASIS
Sofiah. The holder of SMN al-Attas Chair, who is selected by (then known as CASIS) to her Majesty DYMM Tuanku Raja
the Centre (with approval of Tan Sri SMN al-Attas for the first Zarith Sofiah binti Almarhum Sultan Idris Iskandar Al-
holder) for three to five years contract, with possibility of Mutawakkil Alallahi Shah Afifullah, during the meeting
extension, will conduct RZS-CASIS Saturday Night Lecture between Her Majesty and His Excellency Tan Sri SMN al-
series, scholarly dialogues, seminars and supervise at least two Attas that was held on the 23rd of July 2017 at Shangri-La
Ph.D students fully sponsored by this Chair. The students will Kuala Lumpur. In support of this endeavour, on the 24th
be selected from among the best students of RZS-CASIS. In of October 2018, CASIS received RM2,000,000.00
addition, the Chair also offers research grants and publishes endowment fund from QSR Brands (M) Holdings. The
books in the field of Islamic thought and civilisation. signing ceremony took place at Universiti Teknologi
Malaysia, Johor Bahru.
The Chairholder shall do the utmost to realise the aims and
objectives of SMN Al-Attas Chair specifically as follows: Academic, student, and administrative members of RZS-
CASIS hereby records their utmost gratitude and
1. To conduct research and studies on method and content of appreciation to Her Royal Highness DYMM Tuanku Raja
the various disciplines and academic courses based on the Zarith Sofiah binti Almarhum Sultan Idris Iskandar Al-
worldview of Islam; Mutawakkil Alallahi Shah Afifullah, The President & Chief
Executive Datuk Syed Mohamed bin Syed Ibrahim,
2. To conduct all forms of research relating to Islam and Nenchal Khanna The Managing Director of QSR Brands,
comparison with other religions and philosophies as and UTM administration for their continuing support and
determined by HRH the Chairperson of the Board of trust in our institution and its mission.
Governors;

2

3

ROYAL ADDRESS
BY



HER MAJESTY RAJA ZARITH
SOFIAH



Queen of Johor Darul Ta'zim
&

Chancellor of UTM

Royal Address Since then, I have had the opportunity to be part of, among
other things, a conference comprising of delegates from
‫بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم‬ Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies (OCIS) together with
‫الحمدلله رب العالمين‬ CASIS-UTM, and have also attended other programmes
‫والصلاة والسلام على سيدنا محمد أشرف الأنبياء والمرسلين‬ here in Kuala Lumpur. Over the years, CASIS’s academic
‫وعلى آله وصحبه أجمعين‬ programme, research, and publication have grown:
‫السلام عليكم ورحمة الله وبركاته‬ attracting students, academic researchers and visiting fellows
from all over the world. Its activities attract audiences
Yang Berbahagia Prof. Datuk Ir. Dr. Wahid Omar, Vice- among seekers of knowledge from all walks of life, both at
Chancellor of UTM; Yang Berbahagia Prof. Dr. Wan Mohd home and abroad, and is gaining more support through
Nor Wan Daud, their outreach initiatives such as the WISE Summer School,
Holder of The Distinguished Syed Muhammad Naquib Al- Hikma Fellowship and the Saturday Night Lecture Series
Attas Chair of Islamic Thought; with the support of HAKIM, Yayasan Raja Zarith Sofiah
His and Her Excellencies, Ambassadors and Representatives Negeri Johor, Ta’dib International, individuals, friends and
of Foreign Embassies in Kuala Lumpur; Distinguished supporters.
Scholars, Students and Guests;
Members of the Board of Directors, Universiti Teknologi CASIS places great emphasis on our rich traditional sources
Malaysia, Members of the Media, of knowledge; duly respectful of our authorities in
scholarship, knowledge, and learning, while at the same time
Ladies and Gentlemen, cognizant of the currents of thoughts and ideas of the world
from both the East and the West.
On February, 21, 2011, CASIS first opened its doors as a centre
for instruction and learning at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia It is this passion and drive to gain knowledge, learning and
(UTM), Kuala Lumpur. This started when Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. scholarship that I am reminded and humbled by the
Zaini bin Ujang, the then Vice-Chancellor invited Prof. Dr. recollection of the verses from the first revelation as
Wan Mohd Nor Wan Daud to establish a centre in UTM to received by our Prophet Muhammad H Sūrah al-‘Alaq says:
highlight and share the educational philosophy and opinions “Read, in the name of your Lord who created – Created man
of Tan Sri Prof. Dr. Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas, and to from a clinging substance. Read, and your Lord is the most
complement its programme in science and technology. For Generous – Who taught by the Pen – Taught man that
this, I would like to thank Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Zaini bin Ujang, which he knew not.”
for his foresight and commitment.

5

Today, in our own humble way, CASIS embodies the
educational initiatives of Prof. Wan along the philosophy
and practices of his teacher, Prof. al-Attas. They are a living
testimony that the wisdom of authoritative scholars of the
past can be realised and practised in the real world. This is
the spirit by which, in shā’ Allāh, Muslims can play our
rightful role in the current world civilisation.

Tonight marks a historic event in UTM. The launching of
RZS-CASIS is to honour Tan Sri Prof. Dr. Syed Muhammad
Naquib al-Attas, and his closest associate of more than thirty
years, Prof. Dr. Wan Mohd Nor Wan Daud.

Tan Sri Prof. al-Attas has rightly identified that the problem
contemporary Muslims face are the confusion and error in
knowledge. It is hoped that with the establishment of The
Distinguished Syed Muhammad Naquib Al-Attas Chair of
Islamic Thought, the ideas of Prof. al-Attas can be further
studied, developed and applied.

It is my pleasure to announce Prof. Dr. Wan Mohd Nor Wan
Daud, the Founder and First-Former Director of the Centre
for Advanced Studies on Islam, Science, and Civilisation
(CASIS), as the first holder of the Chair.

Prof. Dr. Wan Mohd Nor has demonstrated his ability and
singular commitment to the ideas, educational philosophy
and the practise of Prof. al-Attas. When the ideas of Prof. al-
Attas was not in fashion, he had single-handedly brought
these to the attention of scholars and students of the Muslim
world, from Turkey, Indonesia, America and Europe.

6

I would like to add that Prof. al-Attas’ concern about the In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, Most Merciful, it
confusion and error in scholarly knowledge is not without is with great pleasure that I proclaim this Centre as the
basis. Unfortunately, we read many comments on social RAJA ZARITH SOFIAH CENTRE FOR ADVANCED
media which prove that we look for quick answers via Google STUDIES ON ISLAM, SCIENCE AND CIVILISATION.
than to seek knowledge from centres such as RZS-CASIS, and
to respect scholars who have been taught by older scholars ‫وبالله التوفيق والهداية‬
through decades of studies and research. ‫و السلام عليكم ورحمة الله وبركاته‬

It has now become a fashionable trend to reject the guidance
and advice of official Islamic councils and instead to agree
without any doubts whatsoever individuals or groups who are
not Islamic scholars. What is even more worrying is the
increasing numbers of Ustaz and Ustazah Facebook and the
Imams Google.

Finally, let me say that this then is the role of RZS-CASIS and
other centres of Islamic studies at other universities: to guide
Muslims and avoid confusion in practice and thoughts. The
seeking of Islamic knowledge at universities and centres of
learning is one way of avoiding the confusion which Prof. al-
Attas refers to.

I would also like to thank the Director, Professors, staffs and
students of RZS-CASIS for their hard work and efforts in
ensuring the Centre continue to prosper and successfully
deliver its objectives.

May Allah bestow His guidance and wisdom to all of us who
are here as witnesses of this launching ceremony and to
celebrate two outstanding luminaries of our time.

7

SYED MUHAMMAD
NAQUIB AL-ATTAS



A TRUE REFORMER &
ORIGINAL THINKER

Professor Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas was born on The extent of his works include the discussions on the
September 5th, 1931 in Bogor, Indonesia. Up until now—at his subtlest aspects of the metaphysical concepts and realities
age of 90—Prof. al-Attas continues to provide meaningful and of our worldview, such as the Fixed Essences (al-a‘yān al-
effective guidance for Muslims in confronting the intellectual, thābitah) and spiritual experiences such as the First and
moral, and cultural problems of our times. He is one of the Second Separation (al-farq al-awwal, al-farq al-thānī), the
most celebrated Muslim thinkers not only in the contemporary processes in the Divine creation of Man, and the historical
Malay world but also in the Muslim world at large. His works dating of the age of the various major prophets from
encompass various fields of study such as theology, philosophy, Adam to Muḥammad (may peace be upon them all). It also
metaphysics, education, history, and literature. covers the scientific nature of the Arabic language, the
multi-dimensionality of meanings and application of the
The fact that some of his most important works, most notably concept of adab, the development of secularization in the
Islām and Secularism, have been translated totally or in parts, West and its impact on Muslim thought, the falsity of the
into all Muslim languages such as Arabic, Turkish, Urdu, idea of the transcendent unity of religions, the process of
Persian, Malay-Indonesian and other languages such as the Islamization of contemporary knowledge and the idea
German, Italian, Malayalam, Bosnian, Albanian, Kosovan, of an Islamic University, the historical details of the great
Russian, and Mandarin is a testimony to the gravity and early missionary figures who Islamized the Malay world,
relevance of his ideas. Centered mainly from Kuala Lumpur, the oldest Malay manuscripts, the scientific creation of the
Prof. al-Attas’ contributions to modern Muslim intellectual Arabo-Malay script, and the problematic tombstone like
development covers a wide range of topics pertaining to Islamic that of the great Sultan al-Malik al-Ẓāhir of Pasai, and the
metaphysics, theology, philosophy, ethics, education, science, highly significant stone inscription such as the 14th
and history and successfully responded to the serious challenges Century Terengganu Inscription. In this wide range of
posed by the impact of modern secular worldview, philosophy, subjects, Prof. al-Attas applies what he calls, the tawḥīd
and science which are largely unnoticed by the increasing method of knowing and thinking, which was utilized by all
rigidity of conservative traditionalism, mishandled by the great luminaries of the Islamic intellectual and
reactionary revivalism. His mastery of a wide range of subjects religious tradition, unifying the textual, intellectual, and
is reflective of the broad-based and inter-disciplinary Islamic empirical sources and methods. And these sources are not
intellectual tradition which he proudly represents and seeks to limited only to those that are from within the Islamic
revive at the higher level. This is the first time since the arrival religious and intellectual heritage, but also from outside,
of Islam in this region, that the contributions of our scholar in whether historical or contemporary.
these fields have been globally recognized by an increasing
number the of Muslim educated class.

9

On top of research, writing, and teaching, reformers like him are also deeply involved in the careful development of significant
institutions, reflective of their unified worldview and intellectual orientation. He was able to translate his ideas into a successful
high-level international educational institution when he founded the International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilisation
(ISTAC) and was its founder-director for 15 years. There he also established a library that was not only unique in Southeast Asia,
but also in the Muslim world. Of equal importance, his life-long integrity and his courage and generosity of spirit as a person
and scholar in dealing with various challenges is a great example for all those who have been blessed with the opportunity to
know him well. Throughout his life and at this Institute, in particular, he had practically demonstrated both at the personal and
institutional levels, a kind appreciation and deep respect for non-Muslims, non-Sunnis, and others of different intellectual and
religious persuasions, although he is thoroughly comfortable with his religion and school of theology, fiqh, and taṣawwuf. What
needs to be underlined here is that this consistent generosity of spirit is not spurred by any contemporary political correctness
but by a deeper understanding of the Prophetic tradition best reflected in Sharī‘ah-centric Sufi metaphysics and adab.

Considering the immense and
profound contributions Prof. al-Attas
has done to the contemporary
Muslim world, there is no doubt that
he is a true reformer and original
thinker. True reformers and original
thinkers are a rare breed in any
culture and civilization; more so in
the contemporary Muslim world.
Thus, in recognition of such pivotal
role, it is with great honour and
privilege that RZS-CASIS has
established the Distinguished Chair
of Islamic Thought in the name of
Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas.

10



CHAIRHOLDER



PROFESSOR DR. WAN MOHD
NOR WAN DAUD

PROFESSOR DR WAN MOHD NOR WAN During his studies in the United States, he was active in
DAUD Islamic student affairs and was elected the President of the
National Malaysian Islamic Study Group (MISG), and also the
Professor Dr. Wan Mohd Nor Wan Daud was born in Tanah National President of the Muslim Students’ Association (MSA)
Merah, Kelantan on 23rd of December 1955. He had his of USA and Canada. After returning to Malaysia, he was
early education at National Type English Primary School as appointed as a Lecturer at the Centre for General Studies,
well as lower secondary education at Dato’ Mahmud Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), and then seconded as
Secondary School in his hometown and then proceeded to an Assistant Director at the Educational Planning and
Sultan Ismail College, Kota Bharu Kelantan. Then he went Research Division (EPRD), Ministry of Education Planning
to Forman Christian College in Lahore, Pakistan to pursue a and Research Department.
pre-medical program but decided to leave it after one year
when he was awarded Malaysian Government full- He was formerly the Deputy Director of International
scholarship to study in the United States. He obtained his B. Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC), when
Sc. in Life Sciences and M. Sc. Ed. (Curriculum and ISTAC was led by its Founder-Director, Prof. Dr. Syed
Instruction), both from Northern Illinois University, Muhammad Naquib al-Attas. There he assisted Professor al-
DeKalb, Illinois. He obtained his Doctorate in Islamic Attas in all aspects of curricular planning and instruction,
Thought from the Department of Near Eastern Languages student development and supervision, library acquisition,
and Civilization, The University of Chicago under the publication, seminars, and public relations. Professor Wan
tutelage of the renowned Professor Fazlur Rahman. also was a Principal Research Fellow at the Institute of the
Malay World and Civilisation, Universiti Kebangsaan
Malaysia (UKM) from 2008 to 2010. In February 2011, he
founded and became the first Director of Centre for
Advanced Studies on Islam, Science and Civilisation (CASIS)
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) until 2015.

13

Hitherto, Professor Wan Mohd Nor has written more than One of his most recent work was his 3rd edition of the
20 books and monographs as well as more than 40 academic Budaya Ilmu: Makna dan Manifestasi dalam Sejarah dan Masa
articles in local and international journals, of which the Kini [Knowledge Culture: Its Meaning and Manifestation in
major ones are: The Concept of Knowledge in Islam: Its History and Present Time] (2019) was made to re-address the
Implication for Education in a Developing Country (1989); A increasingly critical state of the community with regards the
Commentary on the Culture of Knowledge (Malay) (1990); Beacon confusion of the authority of knowledge and the misplaced
on the Crest of a Hill: A Brief History and Philosophy of the roots of culture especially in educational institutions. His
International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (1991); forthcoming works include an edited work under the title of
The Educational Philosophy and Practice of Syed Muhammad International Symposium on Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas:
Naquib al-Attas: An Exposition of the Original Concept of Philosophical and Civilizational Dimensions, in which he wrote
Islamization (1998); Development in Malaysia: Towards a Holistic a chapter entitled The Virtuous Civilization of Islam, and two
Understanding (Malay) (2000); 2 books of philosophical- volumes compilation of his essays in Malay and English
mystical Malay poetry (2003 and 2004); Hadhari Muslim covering various themes such as Religion and Philosphy;
Society: An Epistemological and Educational Approach Towards History and Education; Development and National Issues;
National Unity (Malay) (2006); a book co-authored with Syed as well as Book Reviews.
Muhammad Naquib al-Attas, The ICLIF Leadership
Competency Model: An Islamic Alternative (2007); a book co- Apart from that, he has been invited to give innumerous
edited with Muhammad Zainiy Uthman, Knowledge, intellectual discourses, public lectures, seminars, forums
Language, Thought and The Civilization of Islam: Essays in and conferences as well as roundtables and workshops. He
Honor of Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas (2010). Several of also has appeared on TV and radio programmes, in
his books, articles and monographs have been translated newspapers and magazines in Malaysia, Singapore,
into Malay, Indonesian, Turkish, Japanese, Persian, Russian, Indonesia, Turkey, and South Africa.
Bosnian and Macedonian.

14

15

MAJOR EVENTS

1. SATURDAY NIGHT LECTURE SERIES

The Saturday Night Lecture Series is a continuation of the
practice of Tan Sri Professor Dr. Syed Muhammad Naquib al-
Attas, the Founder and First Director of the International
Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilisation (ISTAC), of
holding this almost weekly continuous ongoing lecture every
Saturday night since early in its inception. It was a weekly
gathering of professors, students, and discerning members of
the public where universal ideas pertaining to the religion of
Islām, science, and civilization were deliberated. True to the
tradition of sharḥ, it was the means by which the contents of the
Prolegomena to the Metaphysics of Islām were being
expounded to its fullness by the author himself. It was a
demonstration of the unity of knowledge transcending its
various subdivisions and specialisations. It was a manifestation
of adab in its full profundity and elegance. After over a decade
of hiatus, this tradition was revived by the Raja Zarith Sofiah
Centre for Advanced Studies on Islam, Science, and Civilisation,
RZS-CASIS, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), where
Professor al-Attas had graciously accepted the tenure of being
the Distinguished Visiting Professor in 2014. Since then, the
Saturday Night Lecture has grown from an assembly of a close-
knit network of individuals to an event that attracts listeners
from various backgrounds and age groups, students and
professors, academics and professionals, activists from various
organisations, civil servants, businessmen, and politicians, all
gather together to listen and benefit from the profound wisdom
and deliberations of the professor.

17

While this has certainly proved limiting in terms of
personal engagements and a sense of togetherness, its
audience has nonetheless grown regional, seeing an
increased number of participants from Indonesia,
Singapore, Brunei, Thailand, and the Philippines, as well as
other countries in Europe and the Far West. This lecture
series has generated and would continue to generate
civilisational discourses at various levels and in various
communities and institutions of the region. By the Will and
Grace of Allah, the seed that has been sown decades ago is
now growing into a goodly tree whose roots are firm and
whose branches soar to the heavens.

Today, this tradition is being carried on by the holder of the
Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas’s Chair of Islamic Thought,
Founder and First Director of RZS-CASIS, Professor Dr. Wan
Mohd Nor Wan Daud, with the recommendation and trust by
Professor al-Attas himself. Basing his deliberations on his
book on The Educational Philosophy and Practice of Syed
Muhammad Naquib al-Attas, Professor Wan Mohd Nor
engages also the various personal and civilisational challenges
of contemporary modernity including but not limited to
pertinent issues concerning religion, metaphysics, ethics,
education, politics, history, science, and literature. As the
world is induced into embracing the digital revolution by the
Covid-19 pandemic, the Saturday Night Lectures too have
gone online.

18



2. INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON WORLDVIEW AND CIVILIZATION
[PERSIDANGAN ANTARABANGSA PANDANGAN ALAM DAN PERADABAN] -

BANDUNG, 8-10th November 2019

The International Conference on Worldview and 1) to inculcate knowledge and its culture;
Civilization was another major fruit of untiring unifying
efforts initiated by Professor Wan Mohd Nor to provide an 2) to contribute for a more comprehensive community
intellectual platform for academics and students who have building;
been following the thoughts of Tan Sri Professor Dr. Syed
Muhammad Naquib al-Attas, and this was a momentuous 3) to strengthen the bonding between students and supporters
one as it has successfully connects scholars, educationists in the region; to properly align in coherence the framework of
and activists from different countries in the region. It was thought and its practices in relation to their respective
held in Bandung, Indonesia for 3 days from 8th to 10th of institutions and initiatives;
November 2019. The aims of this conference are among
others: 4) to ensure the legacy of the coming generation in
understanding and developing properly the inherited
knowledge tradition;

5) to strengthen and expand the network of educational and
higher learning institutions through international intellectual
exchange as well as optimising our best resources.

This conference was attended by 145 people comprising 15
presenters, 40 participants from Malaysia, 70 from Indonesia,
and 20 from Singapore. The keynote address was delivered by
Prof. Wan followed by paper presentations by representative
scholars from each country. With the spirit of being consistent
in doing good initiative this conference is planned to be held
every two years in which each country will have their turn at
organizing it.

20







3. INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM ON
SYED MUHAMMAD NAQUIB AL-
ATTAS, 15th February 2020

For almost half a century now, Professor Syed Muhammad
Naquib al-Attas has been addressing the various
fundamental challenges faced by the contemporary Muslim
world by ascertaining their internal and external root causes
and offering thorough analysis, compelling explanation and
practical solutions. While some scholars and writers have
duly recognized al-Attas’ pioneering contributions in
contemporary Islamic thought, more efforts need to be
done to properly study their various theoretical,
comparative and practical aspects. This is especially
important during these challenging times not only due to its
intrinsic values in developing intellectual and scientific
prowess for the young generation of Muslims, but also in
addressing the rising tide of inert conservatism, dangerous
religious and secular extremism and radicalism of many
kinds.

24

This inaugural international symposium seeks to analyze al-
Attas’ thought and contributions as one of the key activities
of the established Distinguished Syed Muhammad Naquib
Al-Attas Chair of Islamic Thought at RZS-CASIS. By
convening a group of international credible scholars to
share their deliberations and reflections, this symposium
was held to accomplish the following objectives:

1. To study and analyze al-Attas’ important insights and
ideas on Islamic thought and civilisation and his
methodology;

2. To examine al-Attas’ diagnosis of the root causes of
contemporary challenges facing the Muslim world and his
proposal for reform;

3. To shed light on the areas that require further
investigation based on al-Attas’ corpus in various aspects of
Islamic thought and civilisation;

4. To create a platform for meaningful dialogues between
Muslims of different religious and intellectual perspectives,
and between Muslim and non-Muslim religious, intellectual
and professional leaders.

25

The symposium was held at Dewan Azman Hashim,
UTM Kuala Lumpur in which its capacity of more than
700 seats was flooded by audiences from different parts
of the world such as Singapore, Indonesia, Turkey and
Germany, to mention a few. The symposium was
divided into two sessions, morning and evening,
culminating with the special lecture given by Tan Sri
Prof. Dr. Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas. Professor al-
Attas in this lecture has deliberated on some of the
important ideas discussed in his upcoming book mainly
on the proper understanding of tawḥīd and the special
position of Islam as the Revealed Religion, in particular
within the context of correcting the confusion brought
about by the advocates of the Transcendent Unity of
Religion.

During the symposium Professor Wan Mohd Nor
delivered a keynote address with the title “Worldview
and the Virtuous Civilization of Islam”, and followed by
other renowned international scholars like Prof. Dr.
Hans Daiber, Prof Dr. Mehdi Mohaghegh, Prof. Dr.
Mahmud Erol Kılıç, Prof. Dr. Tatiana Denisova, and
Prof. Dr. Muhammad Zainiy Uthman, all addressing
various important topics under the theme of
highlighting and exploring the philosophical and
civilisational dimensions of Prof. al-Attas’ ideas.

26

Lecture by
Prof. Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas during Symposium.





4. SYED MUHAMMAD NAQUIB AL-ATTAS’ This program was attended, virtually, by a wide range of
90TH ANNIVERSARY, 17-19th September 2021 audiences which reached more than 1000 audiences
from Malaysia and all over the world, especially during
the first day. It has left a profound and remarkable
impact for the attendees as expressed by many of them
after the program has ended.

Last September marked the 90th Anniversary of Tan Sri Prof.
Dr. Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas. Despite the constraints
brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, it was not a
hindrance for people to converge together in celebrating the life
of a scholar like Prof. al-Attas. In conjunction to that, on 17th to
19th of September 2021 RZS-CASIS led by Professor Wan Mohd
Nor as the Chairholder has organized a 3-Day Webinar in
celebrating Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas’ 90th Anniversary
commemorating the multifaceted aspects of Professor al-Attas’
personality, leadership and educational reform.

The webinar comprises six sessions involving 23 panelists which
include, among other, Professor al-Attas’ students, friends and
the students of RZS-CASIS. Professor Wan Mohd Nor started
the webinar with his keynote speech on the topic of “Prof al-
Attas’ Educational Philosophy and Practice: Navigating
Contemporary Challenges” which then followed with Prof. Dr.
Alparslan Acikgenc, Datuk Dr. Syed Ali Tawfik al-Attas, and
Professor Dr. Muhammad Zainiy Uthman.

30







HIGHLIGHTS OF
OTHER ACTIVITIES

LECTURES AND SEMINARS 4. “Special Talk in conjunction with Book Launching of
Knowledge Culture: Meaning and Manifestation in
In the period of almost 3 years as chairholder, Professor Wan History and Contemporary Times (Budaya Ilmu: Makna
Mohd Nor has been invited to many programs and events to dan Manifestasi dalam Sejarah dan Masa Kini)”.
deliver speeches and lectures, which amount to more than fifty Organized by the Sarawak State Library and Officiated
speeches and lectures, despite the pandemic faced by the world by Chairman of Board of Management, Tan Sri Datuk
at large and Malaysia since the early 2020. Amar (Dr.) Haji Hamid Bugo – 7 April 2019

2019 5. “Special Lecture at the Worldview of Islam Series
(WISE) 2019”. Jointly organized by Raja Zarith Sofiah
1. “Lecture on Knowledge Culture and Its Enemies”. Organized Centre for Advanced Studies on Islam, Science and
by Amanah Hawi al-Khairat (HAK) at the HAK Centre, Shah Civilisation (RZS-CASIS), Ta’dib International
Alam, Selangor, Malaysia – 24 March 2019 Foundation and HAKIM with the support of Dewan
Bahasa dan Pustaka – 13 April 2019
2. Monthly Meet-Up Session and Consultation with Students of
Raja Zarith Sofiah Centre for Advanced Studies on Islam, 6. “Worldview of Islam” in HIKMA Fellowship 2019,
Science and Civilisation (RZS-CASIS), Universiti Teknologi Kota Iskandar Mosque, Iskandar Puteri, Johor Darul
Malaysia (UTM) – 28 March 2019 Ta’zim, Malaysia – 19 – 21 April 2019

3. Meet-The-Author Session - Prof. Dr. Wan Mohd Nor Wan 7. “Educational Visit from Pesantren Tarbiyah Islamiyah
Daud’s New Edition of the book Knowledge Culture: Meaning and Ar-Raudlatul Hasanah, Medan, North Sumatera,
Manifestation in History and Contemporary Times (Budaya Ilmu: Indonesia” – 22 April 2019
Makna dan Manifestasi dalam Sejarah dan Masa Kini), Kuala
Lumpur International Book Fair, Tun Razak Hall 3, Putra World 8. “Session with Mufti Abdur-Rahman ibn Yusuf
Trade Centre (PWTC), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – 31 March 2019 Mangera of Rayyan Institute, United Kingdom” and
Monthly Meet-Up Session and Consultation with
Students of RZS-CASIS, UTM – 23 May 2019

35



Special Lecture at the Worldview of Islam
Series (WISE) 2019

9. “Executive Talk: Shari’ah Discourse for Board Members 15. “Morning Reminder in conjunction with ‘Īd al-’Aḍḥā”,
(BODs) and Senior Management of Maybank Islamic Bank” – Gracanica Grand Mosque, Bosnia Herzegovina – 11 August
24 May 2019 2019

10. “Educational Philosophy: Commentary on The Educational 16. “Enriching the Meaning of Independence in Malaysia
Philosophy and Practice of Syed Muhammad Naquib Al-Attas” (Menyubur Makna Kemerdekaan di Malaysia)” in the
in RIHLA Summer Program, Putrajaya, Malaysia, 22 June – 14 Monthly Meeting of Division of Teachers Professionalism,
July 2019. Organized by Deen Intensive Foundation – 23 – 25 Ministry of Education, Malaysia – 30 August 2019
June 2019
17. “Knowledge Culture: Foundation for Civilization
11. Monthly Meet-Up Session and Consultation with Students of Revival and Its Opposition (Budaya Ilmu: Asas
RZS-CASIS, UTM – 27 June 2019 Kebangkitan Peradaban dan Tantangannya) in conjunction
with The International Lecture and Launching of Book
12. “Seminar on the Restoration of Adab: From Al-Ghazali to Al- Budaya Ilmu: Makna dan Manifestasi dalam Sejarah dan
Haddad” in conjunction with the Annual Hawl of Imam al- Masa Kini. At-Taqwa College Depok, Jakarta, Indonesia –
Haddad. Jointly organized by Amanah Hawi al-Khairat (HAK) 31 August 2019
and RZS-CASIS – 6 July 2019
18. “An Afternoon with Prof. Wan Mohd Nor Wan Daud:
13. “Special Lecture on the Worldview of Islam by Tan Sri Imagine … No Religion Too”. Jointly organized by Peace
Professor Dr. Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas” in the Meal and Mukha Café, Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, Kuala
Worldview of Islam Series (WISE) Summer School 2019 jointly Lumpur, Malaysia – 6 October 2019
organized by RZS-CASIS, Ta’dib International Foundation and
HAKIM – 19 July 2019 19. “De-Islamization of the Muslim Mind: The
Contemporary Challenge” and “Breaking the Vicious
14. International Conference: “Integrated Education in a Circle in Our Times” in HIKMA Fellowship 2019: Villa
Fragmented World”, Institute for Sufi Studies, Üsküdar Retreat Edition, Kota Damansara, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
University, Turkey – 5 August 2019 – 26-28 October 2019

38

20. “Hidayatullah Global Forum 2019: “The Role of University” 2020
(Universiti Untuk Apa?), Department of Foreign Affairs,
Management Board of Hidayatullah Centre – 12 November 1. Raja Zarith Sofiah Centre for Advanced Studies on
2019 Islam, Science and Civilisation (RZS-CASIS) First
Assessment – Graduate Seminar Semester 1 Academic
21. “Intellectual Discourse: The Role of University and Session 2019/2020, Faculty of Social Sciences and
Knowledge Culture” (Peranan Universiti dan Budaya Ilmu), Humanities (FSSK), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
Intellectual Discourse Committee, Faculty of Human Ecology, Kuala Lumpur. Delivered significant remarks, comments
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) – 22 November 2019 and suggestions for the Research Proposals presented by
the Master of Philosophy and Doctor of Philosophy
candidates – 16 January 2020

2. “Theory and Practice of Foundational Framework in
Higher Education Integration, Leadership, and
Excellence” (Kerangka Dasar Teori dan Praktis dalam
Integrasi, Kepimpinan dan Kecemerlangan Pendidikan
Tinggi), in the ILD Virtual Forum: Integrating Excellence,
Synergy and Integrity (ESI) within Murabbi Educators via
Webex organized by UiTM Institute of Leadership and
Development (ILD) – 18 May 2020

3. “The Importance of Knowledge in National Civilisation
Development (Kepentingan Ilmu dalam Pembinaan
Tamadun Bangsa)”. An online Intellectual Discourse
organized by Promotion and Acknowledgement
Department of Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka, Kuala
Lumpur, Malaysia – 10 June 2020

39



4. Speaker – “A Small Commentary on The Virtuous 7. Haul Imam Haddad Live Streaming: An Annual
Civilization of Islām”. A #StayHome Live Online Event via Commemoration of the great sage and scholar of the 16th
Zoom with Prof. Wan Mohd Nor Wan Daud. Co-Hosted century, Imam ‘Abd Allāh ibn ‘Alawī al-Ḥaddād. The event also
by RZS-CASIS and HIKMA Fellowship – 3 April, 11 April, features a number of addresses by other well-known religious
18 April, 26 April, 3 May, 10 May, 17 May, 31 May & 7 June figures such as Habib ‘Umar bin Hafidz (Tarim), Sheikh Abdal
2020 Aziz Fredericks (Scotland), and Sheikh Yahya Rodus (USA).
Jointly organized by Amanah Hawi al-Khairah (HAK), Majlis al-
5. “Online Poetry Recitation Event and Intellectual Muwasolah of Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia & Hawi
Discourse of Jalan Pulang: Mengenai Peta Perjalanan Insan Media Foundation – 27-28 June 2020
Kembali ke Pangkuan Tuhan serta Tugasan, Cabaran
Luaran dan Dalaman” by Prof. Wan Mohd Nor Wan Daud 8. Meniti Jejak 64 Tahun DBP: Wacana Minda Siri 1 - “Ilmu
together with several local and international guests. Co- dalam Pembinaan Tamadun.” Organized by Dewan Bahasa dan
Hosted via Zoom by RZS-CASIS, HAKIM, HIKMA Pustaka – 29 June 2020
Fellowship and Akademi Jawi Malaysia – 14 June 2020
9. Meniti Jejak 64 Tahun DBP: Wacana Minda Siri 2 - “Ilmu
6. “A Khatam with Prof. Wan Mohd Nor, Islamization: yang Bermanfaat.” Organized by Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka –
Between Reality, Concept and Slogan”. A Closing Session 6 July 2020
Ceremony in conjuction with the completion of guided
reading sessions of his book, The Educational Philosophy 10. Meniti Jejak 64 Tahun DBP: Wacana Minda Siri 3- “Ilmu
and Practice of Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas: An dan Bahasa.” Organized by Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka – 13 July
Exposition of the Original Concept of Islamization led by 2020
Syed Muhiyuddin al-Attas, alumni of Raja Zarith Sofiah
Centre for Advanced Studies on Islam, Science and 11. WISE 2020: Siri Wacana Pandangan ‘Ālam Islām,
Civilisation (RZS-CASIS). Organized by Peace Meal, Kuala Penganjuran ke-10, “Pandangan Alam Islam: Makna, Skop dan
Lumpur, Malaysia – 18 June 2020 Cabaran Semasa.” Jointly organized by Ta’dib International &
HAKIM – 22 August 2020

41





12. “Tausiyah Pembukaan” kepada para mahasiswa baru At- 2021
Taqwa College, Depok, Indonesia – via Zoom – 4 September
2020 1. Perbincangan Buku: Muslim Civilization: The Causes of
Decline and the Need for Reform By Umer Chapra via google
13. Wacana Kepimpinan Siri 6: “Budaya Ilmu: Makna dan meet– 17 January 2021
Manifestasi dalam Sejarah dan Masa Kini.” Moderated by Dr.
Mohd Nizam Mohd Ali. Jointly organized by Universiti 2. Perbincangan Buku: Kebangkitan Generasi Salahuddin dan
Malaysia Terengganu, Pusat Pembangunan Bakat dan Inovasi Kembalinya Al-Aqsa Ke Pangkuan Islam (Kejayaan Generasi
(PPBI), Pejabat Komunikasi Korporat (PKK) & Unit Integriti – Salahuddin) oleh Dr Majid Irsan Kaylani. Organized by
23 September 2020 Northern Illinois University USA Alumni– 14 February
2021
14. RZS-CASIS Annual Semester Gathering Semester 1 Session
2020/2021, Chairholder Address: “Knowledge and 3. Webinar: Peranan Universitas dalam Dewesternisasi,
Scholarship, For What? For Whom? Organized by RZS CASIS Dekolonisasi dan Islamisasi Pengetahuan. Organized by
– 24 October 2020 Universitas Abdurrab via Zoom Meeting – 25 February
2021
15. Special Scholar-Guest – National Planning Congress 2020
@ Zoom, Keynote Address: “Our Soul and the City. Mainly 4. Program Kuliah Kepakaran Khusus: Silaturahim dan
organized by MIP Training Centre supported by several Diskusi Perkuliahan. Organized by At-Taqwa College
institutions — 4 November 2020 Depok via Zoom Meeting – 25 March 2021

16. HIKMA Forum 2020: Unifying Insights into a Diverse and 5. Program Kuliah Kepakaran Khusus (PK3): Imam al-
Changing World, ‘The Internal and External Challenges of Ghazali dan Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas. Organized
Our Time. Jointly organized by RZS-CASIS, HAKIM and by At-Taqwa College Depok via Zoom Meeting – 4 April
HIKMA – 26 – 27 December 2020 2021

17. WAFI Forum Spesial Akhir Tahun 2020: Jalan Keluar dari
Kemelut Pemikiran dan Peradaban Umat by Wacana Fikir
Islam (WAFI) – 30 December 2020

44

Worldview of Islamic Series (WISE) 2019,
Hikma Fellowship

6. RZS-CASIS’ Ramadhan Gathering, organized by RZS- 10. Speech at Program Siri Syarahan Ilmuan: Pemikiran Prof.
CASIS via Zoom Meeting – 2nd May 2021 Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas organized by Majlis Belia
Negeri Pahang – 14th August 2021
7. Speaker in a podcast interview with Ahmed Khan
Podcast from Canada with the title of discussion: “The 11. Invited Panelist- Bicara Ilmu: Adab dan Makna
Legacy of Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas.” The full Kemerdekaan Diri Insan di Malaysia organized by Muzium
podcast can be watched at: Warisan Melayu & Fakulti Bahasa Moden dan Komunikasi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sOEd8suwfjY – 5th UPM. Session was moderated online by Prof. Madya Dr. Mohd
July 2021 Zariat Abdul Rani via Zoom and FB Live – 15th September
2021
8. Raja Zarith Sofiah Centre for Advanced Studies on
Islam, Science and Civilisation (RZS-CASIS) First 12. Speaker for Re-launching dan Diskusi Buku Rihlah Ilmiah
Assessment – Graduate Seminar Semester 2 Academic Wan Mohd Nor Wan Daud: Dari Neomodernisme ke Islamisasi
Session 2020/2021, Faculty of Social Sciences and Ilmu Kontemporer moderated by Dr. Adian Husaini organized
Humanities (FSSK), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) by Difa Books via Zoom – 23rd September 2021
Kuala Lumpur. Delivered significant remarks, comments
and suggestions for the Research Proposals presented by 13. Guest Speaker for A Virtual Leadership Programme -
the Master of Philosophy and Doctor of Philosophy Effective Leadership organized by Razak School of
candidates – 9th – 11th July 2021 Government and The Islamic Division of Ministry of Education
Malaysia via Zoom. Deliberating on the topic of “The
9. Main Moderator of Regional Community Gathering via Importance of Purposeful Life for Effective Leadership.”– 27th
Zoom attended by scholar-educational activists October 2021
representing various institutions from Malaysia-
Singapore-Indonesia. Discussion on various contemporary 14. Main Speaker for Peluncuran Buku Puisi Mutiara Taman
civilizational challenges especially during Covid-19 time – Adabi dan Dalam Terang, organized by NuuN.id, Indonesia via
31st July 2021 Zoom. The session will be moderated together by Prof. Dr.
Tatiana Denisova and Dr. Adian Husaini. – 29th October 2021

46