ISTAC Highlights Issue No. 01 /JAN-MARCH 2023 03-6421 1200; 60-3-6421-1234 (fax) [email protected] https://www.iium.edu.my/institute/istac INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTEOF ISLAMIC THOUGHT & CIVILISATION (ISTAC-IIUM) KDN no. ISSN:
First Print, 2023 © ISTAC-IIUM Publications, IIUM Allrights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying,recording, or otherwise, without any prior written permission of the publisher. ISTAC HIGHLIGHT IS AN ONLINE AND HARDCOPY BOOK QUARTERLY PUBLICATION Edited by Nurul Ain Norman Cover and layout design by Maryam Cao Ting Photograph by Fedileh Hashim Zulhijjar Hazli Abdul Halim Rahmat Ramli Published by ISTAC-IIUM Publications International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilisation (ISTAC-IIUM) No. 24, Persiaran Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Taman Duta 50480 Kuala Lumpur Printed in Malaysia by (Printers name)
Contents About Us PAGE 01 Community Engagement & Student Activities Food for Thoughts Message from the Dean of ISTAC-IIUM People in the Spotlight Library Matters Academic Activities AboutUs VISION MISSION OBJECTIVES To be a world-leading international centre of Islamic learning,research, and community engagement in Islamic thought, civilisation, & Malay world studies. To nurture a breed of dedicated scholars who are multi-disciplinary and exemplify sound knowledge, wisdom, and virtues of Islamic civilisation and its worldview forthe benefit of the ummah and humanity. Advancing the cause ofrenewal of Islamic thought & civilisation for global relevance. Nurturing quality & value-driven scholars and graduates for balanced civilisational development. Positioning ISTAC-IIUM as a leading centre of transformation and knowledge creation and application for sustainable societal development. Championing responsible integrated research (inter-multi & transdisciplinary) Advancing Malay world and Islamic civilisation studies. Leading in spiritual, cultural & civilisational integrated niche areas. PAGE 01 1 2 3-9 11-12 13-15 16 17-18 Visitors of ISTAC 10
PAGE 02 ْي ُكْم َوَرْحَم ُة ِهَّللا َوَب َرَكاُتُه الَّس َالُم َعَل First and foremost, I would want to thank the Dean, management, and staff of ISTAC for their remarkable efforts over the previous nearly two years to improve the quality and brand of ISTAC both locally and abroad. The Institute has evolved into a platform for the promotion of Islamic thought and civilisation, inviting scholars, specialists, and students to contribute to and participate in the numerous freshly designed lecture series and activities. The indicators demonstrate how the institute is improving in terms of teaching and learning, research, student and staff numbers, internationalisation, and academic community engagement on a local and worldwide scale. I applaud the ISTAC administration and the team in charge of coming up with the first-of-its-kind "ISTAC HIGHLIGHTS" that promote the Institute's quality and significant activities and events quarterly. The ISTAC Highlights will serve to demonstrate the efforts and programmes while also promoting them locally and internationally. Documenting all efforts and actions is an important step forward in the pursuit of quality and excellence. I hope that ISTAC continues its drive towards global prominence leading the way to otherinstitutions locally and internationally. Prof. Dr. Ahmad Hafiz bin Zulkifly Deputy Rector Responsible Research and Innovation International Islamic University Malaysia Message from theDeputyDean Responsible Research and Innovation of IIUM
PAGE 02 ْي ُكْم َوَرْحَم ُة ِهَّللا َوَب َرَكاُتُه الَّس َالُم َعَل With great pleasure, I greatly appreciate the ISTAC-IIUM community of academics, administrators, students, and the larger family. The publication of ISTAC-IIUM Highlights is yet another important step for the institute to engage more with the local and international communities. The Highlights aim to provide information about the institute's activities, events, and programmes and its involvement locally and globally. Furthermore, it provides food for thought and insights into ISTAC-IIUM's improvements and orientation, as well as its roles and contributions to society, the Ummah, and the world. The ISTAC-IIUM Highlights is the institute's first of its kind in recent years, and it will serve as a platform for our staff and people to express themselves. As we have diversified the activities and programs taking place at ISTAC-IIUM, including Syed Naqib Al Attas Library, over the last nearly two years, it is critical to record. It promotes the institute locally and internationally to reach relevant audiences and send the message across. I want to take this opportunity to thank the staff and postgraduate students who worked on ISTAC-IIUM Highlights for their hard work and dedication. I graciously thank the editorial board and all staff and students who contributed directly or indirectly to the preparation and publication of the Highlights. I am very much obliged to mention in particular Dr. Ain and Sister Mariam for their exceptional efforts resulting in bringing up the ISTAC HIGHLIGHTS. May Allah abundantly reward you for your kind efforts. Thank you kindly. Professor Dr. Abdelaziz Berghout Dean of ISTAC-IIUM Message from theDean of ISTAC-IIUM
ISTAC-WORLDPROFESSORIAL LECTURE (IWPL) IWPL was initiated to engage world minds, scholars, leaders, professors, and experts from across disciplines and specialisations, inviting them to deliver professorial lectures on issues and topics of national and world interest and benefit. The objectives of the IWPL are, among others: 1- Promoting integrated valued, based worldviews and approaches to the issues of man, society, civilisation, culture, environment, education and sustainable development; 2- Building an environment of creativity, innovation, and ijtihad addressing world challenges and issues from inter-multi and trans-disciplinary frameworks; 3- Fosterrahmatan lil a’lamin discourse and collaboration with local and international partners and institutions. EPISTEMOLOGICAL INTEGRATION FOR OVERCOMING OBSTACLES SPEAKER: PROF. DR. KAI YUAN-CHENG INTEGRATING DISCIPLINES FOR IMPACTFUL RESEARCH: NEUROPHILOSPHY, CULTURE AND CIVILISATION SPEAKER: PROF. DR. SYAFAATUN ALMIRZANAH THE IMPORTANCE OF SPIRITUALITY AND ETHICALITY FOR INTERRELIGIOUS AND CIVILISATIONAL DIALOGUE: THE WAY FORWARD IN A COMPLEX WORLD SPEAKER: PROF. DR. FATHI HASAN MALKAWI 06 Jan 2023 Organised by: ISTAC-IIUM & IIMU 22 February 2023 20 March 2023 PAGE 03 National Yang-Ming Chiao-Tung University, Taiwan State Islamic University Sunan Kaljaga Yogyakarta University Michigan & IIIT Advisor. Organised by: ISTAC-IIUM & PPFPM IWPL IWPL IWPL 01/Jan-Mac 2023: Academic Activities
ON FUTURES OF INTEGRATION OF HUMAN KNOWLEDGE & CIVILISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT ISTAC-IIUM LECTURE SERIES PAGE 04 ISLAM IN VICTORIAN BRITIAN WITH AFOCUSON THE LIFEOF FATIMAELIZABETH CATES (1865 - 1900) Lecture No. 9 21 Feb. 2023 RELEVANCEOFAL-GHAZALI TO MODERN TIMES Speaker: Professor Dr. Hamidullah Marazi, Central University of Kashmir, Srinagar. 23 Feb. 2023 ON SPIRITUAL, INTELLECTUAL & MENTAL WELLBEING ENHANCEMENT 17 Feb 2023 Speaker: Prof. Dr. Abdelaziz Berghout, IIUM TALK 1/2023 SPIRITUAL INTELLIGENCEAND MENTAL HEALTH.BUILDINGTHE SOUL FIRST Lecture No. 10 MODESTY: THE ISLAMICRECIPE FOR EXEMPLARYBEHAVIOUR TALK 2/2023 Speaker: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tahraoui Ramdane, IIUM. Speaker: Dr Yahya Birt, Research Director, Ayaan Institute, London, UK. The program aims to enhance spiritual, intellectual & mental health well-being among the IIUM community. Our emotional, psychological, and social well-being all contribute to our mental health. It has an impact on how we think, feels, and act. It also influences how we deal with stress, interact with others, and make healthy choices. Mental health is essential throughout life, from childhood and adolescence to adulthood. As one of the world's pioneer universities in implementing the Islamisation of Knowledge (IOK) project as its main mission and vision in academia, ISTAC-IIUM will soon be celebrating its 32nd anniversary. The lecture is directed towards the formation of our student body and the otherinterested Kulliyahs, scholars, researchers, and academic institutions in Malaysia and abroad about the contributions and ongoing research discussions and discourses at ISTAC-IIUM about futures of integration of human knowledge & civilisational development. 01/Jan-Mac 2023: Academic Activities ISTAC-IIUM LECTURE SERIES .........2023
07 Jan 2023 BOOK LAUNCHING & REVIEW - HIKMAH TOLERANSI: FALSAFAH KEPEMURAHAN & KEAMANAN BY ABDURRAHMAN WAHID & DAISAKU IKEDA Organiser : ISTAC-IIUM & SOKA GAKKAI MALAYSIA Prof Dr Abdelaziz Berghout Dean of ISTAC-IIUM Prof Emeritus Tan Sri Dato' Dulkifli Abdul Razak Rector of IIUM Mr Michael Kok President of Soka Gakkai Malaysia DRA Zannuba Arifah Chafsoh Rahman Wahid Director of Wahid Foundation Emeritus Prof. Datuk Dr. Osman Bakar Holder of Al-Ghazali Chair of Epistemology, Cvilisational Studies & Renewal, ISTAC-IIUM Prof. Datuk Dr. Azizan Baharuddin Director, Centre for Civilisational Dialogue, UM Holder of UKM-YSD Chair of Sustainability & Hon. Fellow, Institut Masa Depan Malaysia Assoc. Prof. Dr. Imtiyaz Yusuf Coordinator, Islamisation of Knowledge Unit, ISTACIIUM. Dr. Jimmy Tam Kok Chian Student Division Secretary. Soka Gakkai Malaysia. Ms. Lee Kam Yit Young Women's Leader, Soka Gakkai Malaysia. BOOK REVIEW MODERATOR & PANELISTS PAGE 05 01/Jan-Mac 2023: Academic Activities
This international conference explores the deep-rooted and widespread historical connections and exchanges along the IndoPacific rims, starting from coastal China and ending in east littoral Africa, during the 10th to 16th centuries. Three periods have emerged: 1) the broad, 2) historical Indo-Pacific maritime connections, and 3) Eurasian continental communications from the Tang /Abassid dynasties to the Mongol period—the last laid the foundations for the Zhenghe voyages in the 15th century or the Age of Commerce. The second phase comprises the oft-neglected Zhenghe voyages in the 15th century and the concurrent expansion of various networks in the Nanhai-Indo-Pacific region, focusing on state, quasi-state, and non-state factors in the transformation of Nanhai's local commercial, political, and cultural-religious landscape. The third phase consists of the erosion of Chinese influence in the face of rising European colonialism during the 16th to 17th centuries. The geographic nodes that formed the regional networks during the three historical phases include Quanzhou, Guangzhou, Jiaozhi, Champa, Kalah, Malacca, Luzon, Sulawesi, Sumatra and Java coasts, Indian coasts, Sri Lanka, Arabia, and East African coasts. Focusing on the second phase, the forum looks at the exchanges and connections between the populations of the two geographic entities that appeared far more multilayered than the maritime and official engagements. As more non-official sources and evidence emerge, Chinese Southeast Asian relations encompass trade, religion, migration, genealogy, marriage, commodities, and technologies, to name a few, before, during, and after Zheng He's adventures into the South China Sea. The forum will explore the complexities of these relations, as represented by key communities, people in business, and religious figures and their littleknown networks and activities that constitute the foundations of ChineseSoutheast Asian communications during that period. INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON ZHENG-HE VOYAGES AND THE UNOFFICIAL HISTORY OF CHINESESOUTHEAST ASIAN RELATIONS Start Date : 10 Jan 2023 End Date : 12 Jan 2023 Organised by: ISTAC-IIUM, Zheng-He Forum, Asia- Pacific Strategic Dialogue, Hong Kong and Malaysia- China Friendship Association Attended by PROF EMERITUS TAN SRI DATO' DZULKIFLI ABDUL RAZAK. Rector, (IIUM) PROF DR ABDELAZIZ BERGHOUT Dean, (ISTAC-IIUM) DATO' ABDUL MAJID AHMAD KHAN President, Malaysia-China Friendship Association MR XIAO WUNAN Asia Pacific Strategic Dialogue Officiating & Opening by YB DATO' SERI DR. ZAMBRY ABDUL KADIR Minister of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia Convener DR HAIYUN MA Associate Professor of History, Frostburg State University, USA PROF EMERITUS DATUK DR. OSMAN BAKAR Holder of Al-Ghazali Chair of Epistemology, Civilisational Studies & Renewal, ISTAC-IIUM PAGE 06 01/Jan-Mac 2023: Academic Activities The 6th Zheng-He Conference
KNOWLEDGE, TRADITION AND CIVILISATION: ESSAYS IN HONOUR OF PROFESSOR OSMAN BAKAR BOOK LAUNCH & FORUM 26 Jan 2023 PANELIST 4 Mr. Yusmadi Yusoff Former Senator, Lawyer PANELIST 1 Prof. Dr. Rosnani Hashim Kulliyyah of Education, IIUM PANELIST 2 Assoc. Prof. Dr. Peter Chang Institute of China Studies, UM PANELIST 3 Prof. Dr. Zaid Ahmad Faculty of Human Ecology,UPM Launching by YAB Dato' Seri AnwarIbrahim PRIME MINISTER OF MALAYSIA YAB Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister launched the book "Knowledge, Tradition and Civilization: Essays in Honor of ProfessorOsman Bakar" at ISTAC-IIUM on the 26th of January 2023. . The book brings together a collection of essays by various famous scholars and activists including YAB Prime Minister who discuss the lifetime contributions and achievements of Emeritus Prof. Datuk Dr. Osman Bakar. It also contain essays that discuss issues and topics related to his expertise and interest. PAGE 07 MODERATOR OF FORUM: Professor Dr. Khairudin Aljunied, GeorgetownUniversity,USA. 01/Jan-Mac 2023: Academic Activities
THE MALAY MANUSCRIPT PROJECT Gambaran Peperangan Melayu dari Manuskrip Pensejarahan Melayu Pengobatan Penyakit Perempuan dalam Manuskrip Melayu LECTURE 10 Speaker: Dr Mardiana Nordin, Department of History,University of Malaya LECTURE 11 Speaker: Dr Mu'jizah, PenelitiUtama, Badan Riset dan InovasiNasional, Jakarta,Indonesia. 27 January 2023 LECTURE 12 THE TANAH AIR: MALAY MARITIME CIVILISATION PROJECT 23 February 2023 Organiser ISTAC-IIUM & Perpustakaan Hamzah Sendut, USM. Melayu Tanjong and the SpiceRoute: Histories and Expressions Speaker: Dr. HabsahAbdulRahman, Ahli, Jam'iyah AL-ikha Pulau Pinang PROJEK MELAYU TANJONG-MALAYSIANA SYARAHAN KE-8 Speaker: Dr.Abd.Rahman Hamid, UniversitasIslam Negeri Raden Intan, Lampung,Indonesia. Pasang SurutJaringan Maritim Mandar di Selat MakassarAbad ke-20 2 March 2023 TOPIC: Teks Perundangan Sebagai SumberRujukanKetatanegaraanKesultanan Melayu LECTURE 12 Speaker: Asst. Prof.Dr. Mohamad Hazizie Sulkafle, Department of History and Civilisation, AHAS KIRKHS,IIUM. 31 March 2023 13 March 2023 PAGE 08 01/Jan-Mac 2023: Academic Activities LECTURE SERIES OF LECTURE SERIES OF LECTURE SERIES OF
Forum Effective Role of CSOs in Nation Building 2.0 - Fringe Players or Partners? 10 February 2023 1st ISTAC Forum: THE MADANI FRAMEWORK FOR CIVILISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT WISDOM, INNOVATION AND COMPASSION 1st ISTAC Forum THE MADANI FRAMEWORK FOR CIVILISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT：WISDOM, INNOVATION AND COMPASSION 27 February 2023 Speakers: Prof.Dr.AzizanBaharuddin,Director Centre for Civilisational Dialogue & Holder of UKM-YSD Chair of Sustainability Emeritus Prof.Datuk.Dr.OsmanBakar, Holder of Al-Ghazali Chair of Epistemology nd Civilisational Studies & Renewal (ISTAC -IIUM) Datuk SeriDr. Mujahid YusofRawa , Former Ministerin the Prime Minister's Department, Malaysia Organisers : ISTAC-IIUM, ACCIN & IKRAM MALAYSIA Panelists： Tn. Hj. Badlishah Sham Baharin President, Pertubuhan Ikram Malaysia (IKRAM) How can CSOs create effective advocacy and influence policies? Mdm. Siti Fadilah Deputy CEO, Islamic Relief Malaysia Tn. Hj.Badlishah Sham Baharin President, Pertubuhan Ikram Malaysia (IKRAM) How can CSOs create effective advocacy and influence policies? Mdm. Siti Fadilah Deputy CEO, Islamic Relief Malaysia What are the challenges of creating a successful international CSO? Dr. Sharifah Nursyahidah SyedAnnuar Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) How does the Government or State perceive the role of CSOs in nation building? Mr. EddinKhoo Senior Fellow - Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS MALAYSIA) & Founder- PUSAKA How does culture and heritage activism contribute to nation building? PAGE 09 Moderator: ProfessorDr.AbdelazizBerghout, Dean of ISTAC-IIUM Moderator： Assoc. Prof.Dr.DanialBin Mohd. Yusof, Dr. NurulAin Norman, IIUM. ISTAC-IIUM. Master of Ceremony： Tuan Hj.Ir. Mohd Jamaludin Mohamed Shamsudin, CEO, ACCIN. ProfessorDr.AbdelazizBerghout, Dean, ISTAC-IIUM. Welcoming Keynote Speaker： Speech： 01/Jan-Mac 2023: Academic Activities
Visitors of ISTAC 9 March 2023 Visit of Spouse of Head of Missons (SOHOM) to ISTAC Damansara. 28 March 2023 Courtesy Visit of HH 42nd Sakya Trizin, Ratna Vajra Rinpoche to ISTAC 10 March 2023 ISTACSS x HISTFORUM IIUM Visit to ISTAC 6 March 2023 Visit from Persatuan Kebangsaan PelajarIslam Malaysia (PKPIM) 01/Jan-Mac 2023: Visitors of ISTAC 24 Feb 2023 Visit by Dr Hisham Altalib and IIIT members to ISTAC together with the Khatib Guest of Masjid Zabedah 13 Feb 2023 Benchmarking Visit from Institut Tamadun dan Kajian Strategik (ITKAS), Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP) PAGE 10
01/Jan-Mac 2023: Community Engagement & Student Activities Welcoming New Students/ISTAC Ta'aruf Semester 2, 2022/2023 3 March 2023 WelcomingRamadan 1444 H/Ihya'Ramadan & Daily Iftar at Masjid Zabedah 23 March - 31 March 2023 CommunityDay every first Friday of the month PAGE 11
In the spirit of welcoming the holy month of Ramadan, ISTAC-IIUM organised Rewang Bubur Lambuk x Community Day, where we enlivened the tradition of gotong royong/rewang to make bubur lambuk. This programme involved all staff, students, and the community around ISTAC-IIUM. The bubur lambuk made during the programme was distributed to the jamaah of Masjid Zabedah during the Friday prayer and community around. Bubur Lambuk, a lightly spiced rice porridge, is a Ramadan tradition in Malaysia where the congregation traditionally prepares it with the spirit of gotong-royong. Folks would gather at the masjid with the ingredients and tools needed to make this particular dish under the instruction of the head chef. The dish will then be shared and distributed amongst the congregation and the community. The tradition has been practiced for many years in welcoming the holy Ramadan in the spirit of unity and togetherness. organised by: Masjid Zabedah, ISTAC REWANGBUBURLAMBUKXCOMMUNITYDAY 17 March 2023 Research Methods in IOK:An IslamicApproach TRAINER : PROFESSOR DR. FATHI HASAN MELKAWI ORGANISED BY : ISTAC STUDENTS' SOCIETY IN COLLABORATION WITH INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR MUSLIM UNITY, IIIUM The training allows the students to pursue comprehensive knowledge about the Integration of Knowledge and practical experience with the methodology. The workshop is vital for the student's academic development and self-improvement in conducting research. This event would also serve as an avenue to sustain students' activities in the institute on the arts and science of writing. 13th March 2023 PAGE 12 01/Jan-Mac 2023: Community Engagement & Student Activities
People in the Spotlight Q: How do you see the progress ofISTAC-IIUM from the pastto the present? ISTAC-IIUM has undergone massive changes in different phases of development. It has had its ups and downs since founded in 1987 by the eminent scholar, Professor Syed Naquib al-Attas, at a temporary premise in Section 16, Petaling Jaya. In 2008, ISTAC moved to Bukit Tunku, previously located at Bukit Damansara. Now, ISTAC-IIUM will become a dynamic institution again through the excellent leadership of Professor Dr. Abdelaziz Berghout. As we move forward, we mustrememberthe lesson from experience. Q: How do you see ISTAC-IIUM 10 years ahead? It's something difficult to say as I am not in a position of being able to predict the future. However, the country's top policymakers, the Minister of Education, and the university's leadership are the ones who will determine the future of our institution. As academicians, we must be practical and stay committed to producing as many graduates with Master's and Doctoral degrees as possible. We must continue to create an environment that enriches the students with knowledge and hikmah. Q:Do you have any suggestions for building a better ISTAC? In the academic world, the essential thing is ideas. These ideas must be implemented on the path of our institution's vision and objectives. Along the pathway, the quality of our academicians, students, administrative staff, and environment must also be assured. ISTAC-IIUM carries the soul of the Muslim world; it is not only forthe locals but is built forthe ummah. It is an institution of the, and for the ummah. Therefore, it must orient itself for the benefit of the ummah. Let us put up a course named Ummatic Studies, where the word and meaning of ummah, its identity, and its characteristics will be defined and conceptualised. Bridging the past and present is also suitable for producing good-valuable perspectives about issues concerning the Muslim World. Q:Whatis your opinion on the renewal and reform ofIslamic thought, and how do you see its future? If you look through my inaugural speech of Al-Ghazali chair, I have mentioned the importance of ISTAC-IIUM to speak about the past achievements of Islamic civilisation and understand the contemporary world. If you see our civilisation as declining, there is a need to revive the past in the context of the modern world. However, it is essential to note that in any civilisation's development, the past cannot be completely removed; it needs to sustain by creating a balance with the present. When we talk about the future, it is about tomorrow, today, and yesterday. We need to train and serve the next generation with this idea so they are guided with good education. PAGE 13 Emeritus ProfessorDatuk Dr.OsmanBakar Holder ofAl-Ghazali Chair of Epistemology and Civilisational Studies & Renewal The star of today's interview is Emeritus Professor Dr. Osman Bakar, the holder of the Al-Ghazali Chair of Epistemology and Civilisational Studies & Renewal in ISTAC-IIUM. He is listed among the 500 Most Influential Muslims in the World in 2022 and 2023. He recently received the Top Researcher of the International Section Award of the 13th Farabi International Award on Humanities and Islamic Studies. He has been a university lecturerfor over 50 years. He is an author and editor of 40 books and more than 300 articles on various aspects of Islamic thought and civilisation, particularly Islamic science, and philosophy, in which he is a leading authority. He's definitely someone that can inspire everyone both in their personal and academic life journey. By: Nurul Ain Norman Interview with: 01/Jan-Mac 2023: People in the Spotlight
People in the Spotlight PAGE 14 Q: How do you see the progress ofISTAC-IIUM from the pastto the present? As a student at ISTAC from 2002 to 2015, I witnessed many transformations in the institution's academic, administrative, and governance aspects. In the past, ISTAC was highly regarded and respected for its academic offerings. It drew students from various parts of the world with diverse educational backgrounds. ISTAC focused on Islamic Thought, Islamic Civilisation, and Islamic Science, which set it apart from other academic institutions. As a result, professors at ISTAC must possess comprehensive knowledge in these areas. ISTAC is now a recognised kulliyyah at IIUM that provides up-to-date and modern programs. Q:Who or whatinspires you? Growing up, my parents instilled in me the importance of education. While their academic backgrounds were limited, they strongly upheld the belief that obtaining a good education was essential and could open many opportunities. They inspired me with respect for higher education and its ability to transform and enrich lives. At secondary school, I had many inspiring teachers, and in my career, many fellow professionals have generously given me time and advice. I had the privilege to have the late Professor Dr. Sayyid Ajmal Abdul Razak Al-Aidrus as my supervisor, who was a blessing to ISTAC's academic community, especially me. Q:Whatis your advice to the current students? Current students should utilise the extensive book and journal collections available in ISTAC as far as possible. ISTAC-IIUM Syed Muhammad Naquib Al-Attas Library is one of the libraries that has the best collections in Malaysia. Undoubtedly, it will enhance their knowledge and make the most of their experience in the university. Q:Do you have any suggestions for building a better ISTAC? We need courses that meet contemporary demands. That will surely help in the steadily growing student enrolment. ISTAC-IIUM has a magnificent building that maintains tradition; however, we must ensure that the curriculum remains relevant to the modern world. The current courses are already great, but I suggest adding spice to them by adding philosophy and language courses. Q:Whatis your opinion on the renewal and reform ofIslamic thought, and how do you see its future? Today's primary focus is the revival of Islamic thought and civilisation as we face new challenges that demand serious attention. We can find solutions to these issues by utilising Islamic thought and civilisation. The institution of ISTAC should lead in guiding the Ummah towards creating a better world. To educate and inform future generations, it is crucial to focus on imparting knowledge through teaching, conducting research, publishing findings, and being actively engaged within society. Dr. Suzana Suhailawaty Mohd Sidek President of the ISTAC-IIUM Alumni Association Dr. Suzana Suhailawaty joined ISTAC in 2002 and completed her master's degree in 2008. She later continued her doctoral degree at the same institution and in the same field, Islamic and Other Civilisations, which she completed in 2015. As well as contributing to ISTAC-IIUM's Journal of Al-Shajarah as the copy editor in 2020, she has been a lecturer in the Kulliyah of Education, IIUM, since 2018. She is active in severalresearch projects including one with the MOE, entitled “Teaching Future Studies: An Introduction to the Higher Education in Malaysia”. She is well-known and loved by the students due to her constant concern fortheir development and being a source of inspiration forthem. by: Mohammad Eisa Ruhullah Interview with: 01/Jan-Mac 2023: People in the Spotlight
People in the Spotlight Q:What made you to study in IIUM and ISTAC in specific? I wanted to study in an Islamic university, in an Islamic environment, and to always have Islam in my heart and life. I chose two universities as my options, the first IIUM and the second, the University of Medinah. However, the offer of IIUM came first, and my heart jumped out of my chest when I was offered the Islamic Revealed Knowledge course. However, I had a dream to become a policymaker one day to help my country apply justice in the government and society; therefore, I changed my course to Political Science, majoring in International Relations. IIUM and ISTAC is my dream come true. I'm in the garden of knowledge, and I will try to bloom what I have gained. Q:What are the biggest challenges ofthe students in ISTAC-IIUM and suggestions, if any? As an ISTAC Students' Society president, I can provide some insights based on my experience. The biggest is the distance between IIUM Gombak and ISTAC-IIUM. It is challenging for students, especially if they must travel long distances daily. It is tiring and time-consuming, affecting their ability to participate in campus life activities and socialise with their equivalents. Students would appreciate it if the institution could explore ways to reduce the distance between IIUM Gombak and ISTAC by providing hostel accommodation and improving communication channels to avoid negative wisdom experiences and enhance academic programmes as well as the current facilities' quality. Q:As a president ofthe ISTAC Student Society, whatis your advice to the current students? First, have a working schedule, in my experience, is the best way to balance studies and other university activities. The ideal study times should be included in your schedule, whether during the day for day owls or night owls. It is helpful to have a calendar of academic activities for the semester, from workshops to deadlines for assignments and exams. Participate in as many programmes as possible to uncover yourtalents while in the university. In the end, by connecting with many cultures, you come to understand who you are, make enduring memories, and form friendships. Last but not least, when you are unsure, consult an advisorfor help. Q: Have you heard aboutthe renewal ofIslamic thought and civilisation?Whatis your opinion regarding it? The vision of the renewal of Islamic thought and civilisation refers to the tendency among Muslim scholars and intellectuals to reinterpret and rethink Islamic customs, texts, and techniques to address trendy issues and challenges facing Muslim communities. I believe it is an optimistic consequence that can help advance greater comprehension and engagement between the Muslim World and the rest of the planet. By revaluating and revising Islamic rituals and traditions, and of course, it can take many additional forms, relying on the philosophies and objectives of the thinkers and intellectuals concerned, Muslim thinkers can help produce a more diligent and responsive Islamic civilisation that is better to preach the needs and circumstances of coexisting Muslim communities. PAGE 15 Mohammad EisaRuhullah President of the ISTAC Student Society (ISTACSS) Mohammad Eisa Ruhullah is pursuing his Ph.D. in ISTAC-IIUM, specialising in Peace and Security. He is under a full scholarship from IIIT, Virginia, USA. He has a background in International Relations from his Bachelor's degree from IIUM and a Government Affairs and Administration Studies Master's degree from Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Indonesia. He had the opportunity to work under the dean of ISTAC-IIUM,, graduate research assistant and a visiting lecturer at the Institute of Il casakti Tegal, Kota Tegal, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia . Besides his mother tongue Bangeli, he is fluent in Urdu, Bahasa Melayu, English, and basic Arabic. Coming from a big family, Eisa believes his study in ISTAC-IIUM will strengthen humanity and the Muslim countries to sustainable political development, especially his country Bangladesh. By: Nurul Ain Norman Professor Dr. Abdelaziz Berghout as a mu Tarbiyah Pemalang and Universitas PanInterview with : 01/Jan-Mac 2023: People in the Spotlight
Food for Thoughts Rethinking of the Renewal and Reformation of Islamic Thought By: Nurul Ain Norman While putting divine revelation at the centre of the referential framework, Muslim scholars need to restore a new life to Islamic thought where the sources of knowledge are integrated. Hence, in conveying the universal message of Islam, the ideal Muslim ummah or ummahwassatiyyah (2:143, 68:28, 2:238, 100:5, 5:89) will also find its potential to be produced and reproduced. Modernity in the Muslim context does not suspend the faith in one God by believing that He is over and that the world is entirely godless. It is never understood that the whole governance is under the authority of man alone, who merely strives for material pleasures without considering his God, his behaviour, and morality, as well as turning a blind eye to the tradition and being insentient of the future. There is a red line between the understanding of modernity in the Western mind and of the Muslims who see the world as farmland of human development towards perfection, thus creating in-depth connections between God, the world, and the hereafter. It creates the need for balancing the principles of tradition with the contemporary modern needs. Islam welcomes the success and benefits of science and technology for the development of human life but denies the understanding of perfection that buries man's identity underthe graveyard of worldly pleasures. Transformation and change are critical aspects of any renewal and reform; whether in nature or thought, the process is inevitable. It allows the process of maturity in both humans and nature, and this is where piosity plays its role in enhancing the quality of progress and development in man. Islam does not narrow the process of renewal, reform, transformation, and change in the circle of materiality. However, it captures it in a broader spiritual view, allowing the nature of transforming and changing (renewing and reforming) to run at its own pace. It is not Islam that is stagnant or backward, but it is our mind that stops at a point of competency, of feeling enough with what we currently have. Searching for knowledge and increasing iman is a journey; therefore, pondering upon creations of nature and the world beyond produces new ideas that enhance the quality of life in this world and the hereafter, as the Holy Qur'an mentions in 45:13: In a world of continuous change and rapid evolution, every human needs to rise to the occasion. It is no more seen as a choice but as a matter of remaining resilient and adaptive to the current changes underway in the world. At the same time, the real challenge is to transform and change while keeping Islamic values and traditions vigorous. The ability to navigate these stormy times of modernity depends on having a decent, solid compass that holds on to the divine revelation, restores the Islamic identity, establish its tenets, and lofty allusions, thus showing man the right way to follow. There is a need to allow the various historical paths that have shaped previous human civilisation to combat the attempts of standardisation, alienation, and centralist cultural tendencies. Chtatou (2017) mentions that renewing and reforming the Islamic intellectual heritage is of the utmost importance in facing the complexity of the modern world. PAGE 16 Islamic thought is boundless, comprehensive, and inclusive. It is a discourse that interconnects human life with various issues, including individual, social, spiritual, and material needs, transcending through places and times. Modernity has brought Islamic thought to a level of debate where one side of the coin opposes another, while the other attempts to find compatibility. The latter tries to determine whether to find the harmonious aspect from the angle of the Islamic heritage (turath al-Islami) or the argumentative side of modernity. Another method is based on revivalism, where a new heritage is produced through rereading and revitalising Islamic tradition in the context of modernity. "He has disposed of for you[r benefit] whateveris in the heavens and whateveris on the earth; all is from Him. There are indeed signs in that for people who reflect." 01/Jan-Mac 2023: Food for Thoughts
For example, the oldest manuscript on Astronomy, written by al-Biruni in 1197 A.D is more than 800 years old, and Hikayat Binatang, written by Munsyi Abdullah in 1846 A.D., is the first printed Malay book on science and animals. Various manuscripts that range from 100 to 800 years old are stored in Al-Attas Library. Professor Al-Attas also manage to collect the personal collections of several prominent scholars such as Fazlur Rahman, Oleg Grabar, Wiliam Roff, Bertold Spuler, etc.. A collection of old dictionaries such as the Malay-Latin-Malay dictionary from the 16th and 17th centuries, and the FrenchMalay dictionary which reach more than 300 years old, also exist in the library. There is also a collection of artifacts that consist of original weapons such as swords, shields, and guns during the ancient wars of the Ottomans, Algerians, Persians, and n. In the Malay world, the weapons are known as keris, and both keris and swords (from Ottomans, Persians, and Mongolians) are engraved with extraordinary carvings that signify their dynasties. The library's most crucial aspect is the process of material preservation, which includes storing, maintaining, and ensuring the collection's quality and authenticity. The humidity level must be assured to be appropriate; if too cold, the books will turn moldy, and if too hot, they will start to dry and crumble. The fumigation is done every four years to kill small insects, bookworms, and silverfish. Digitisation of the manuscript collection is also an important aspect in preservation. It will later be available on the IIUM Digital Manuscript database. The library operates from 8.30 am to 5 pm and is closed on weekends and public holidays. Students will not be charged for library visits, however the public will only be imposed on a minimal charge for borrowing. The special collection section, however, is opened based on specialrequest only. holar himself (Prof. Al-Attas). It started with a bungalow in section 16, Petaling Jaya, and later moved to Bukit Damansara and now to ISTAC-IIUM's current location in Bukit Tunku, Jalan Duta. The library collections cover Islamic civilisation, Eastern and Western civilisations, culture and comparative thought, history, and Islamic and other civilisations' arts, language, and traditions. Approximately 150,000 collections from various collections, such as books, manuscripts, journals, and rare books, exist in the library. Professor Tan Sri Dr. Syed Muhammad Naquib Al-Attas collections are align with his central idea regarding Islam, science, and civilisation and the establishment philosophy of ISTAC. His collections are well kept in every corner, especially those in the special collection section which includes the rare books, manuscripts, and the personal collections of prominent scholars of the past. His collections are high of value and hardly obtained in otherlocal orinternational institutions. The architectural features of SMNA/Al-Attas's Library are similar to the Alhambra Palace: a mosque, palace, and city complex of the former Moorish kingdom of Granada in Spain (known as Al-Andalus). However, it is mentioned in history that it is also related to the Malay architecture, especially the wooden carvings, revealing the combination of both the Malay and Andalusian elements in the Islamic architecture. Adding to this point, ISTAC's buildings also carry philosophical meaning behind the architecture of their fountain, pillars, wall carvings, and even the number of pillars and stairs. This shows that Prof. Al-Attas gave great importance to a good learning atmosphere, which is harmonious and spiritual-intellectual driven to ensure the productivity of the graduates in quality and innovational creativity. The uniqueness of the Al-Attas Library is laid in the 2000+ manuscripts of various languages such as Malay, Arabic, Persian, Urdu, and Turkish, which are in the form of books and microfilms. There are over 1,000 rare books, over 50,000 personal collections of prominent scholars from local and international, large-sized books (odd size) up to one metre, and a collection of Malay and foreign old maps. Some collections are the only ones or among the 2/3 copies worldwide. ON COLLECTIONS RARE Summary of Mr. Ahmad Zaki Rashid (Senior Librarian) of Syed Muhammad Naquib Al-Attas Library Bernama TV, ASTRO 502, 10 March 2023 (Friday), 8.30-9.00 pm By: Mohammad Eisa Ruhullah Syed Muhammad Naquib Al-Attas Library (or: SMNA/Al-Attas Library) was established in 1989 by the founder of ISTAC, Professor Tan Sri. Dr. Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas and his assistant, Prof. Dr. Wan Mohd Noor Wan Daud. The efforts for collecting the collections were done since 1987 and were mostly compiled by the eminent scPAGE 17 TV INTERVIEW 01/Jan-Mac 2023: : Library Matters
Library visitors PAGE 18 6th January 2023. Al-Attas Library received a visit from Library Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Kuala Lumpur UTM Library Kuala Lumpur . Mdm Nik Masriza Zakaria and 2 librariasn. 10th February 2023. Al-Attas Library received a benchmarking visit from 4 staff of Pertubuhan IKRAM Malaysia (IKRAM). 13th February 2023. Al-Attas Library received a benchmarking visit from 6 sITKAS UMP Institute Tamadun dan Kajian Strategik (ITKAS), Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP). 21st February 2023. Al-Attas Library received a benchmarking visit from the usrah group of International Institute for Halal Research and Training INHARTIIUM. 22nd February 2023. Al-AttasLibrary received a benchmarking visit from Pusat Kajian Pemikiran dan Peradaban Ummah (PEMIKIR). 22nd February 2023. Al-Attas Library received a benchmarking visit from Professor Dr. Kai-Yuan Cheng, National Yang-Ming Chiao-Tung University and Persatuan Pendidikan Falsafah Dan Pemikiran Malaysia (PPFPM) Courtesy visit by Professor Dr. Hasan Fathi Melkawi from Michigan State University, USA & the Advisor of IIIT on the 24th of February 2023. Al-Attas Library received an educational visit from Perpustakaan Negara Malaysia (PNM) on the 28th. of February 2023. Courtesy visit by Sheikh Mohamed Elmongy, Imam from Kuwait on the 28th. of February 2023 (Tuesday) 3 March 2023. Al-Attas Library received a visit from the new postgraduate students of semester 2, 2022/23 for their Postgraduate Ta'aruf Week Educational Outing Trip. 42 students from various Kulliyyahs in IIUM. 6th March 2023. Al-Attas Library received an educational visit from Persatuan Kebangsaan Pelajar Islam Malaysia (PKPIM) with its 50 participants. Courtesy visit Prof. Dr. Jamil Lee Hee Soo,Professor of the Department of Cultural Anthropology, Hanyang University, Korea cum director of the university's museum on the 9th of March 2023. 14 March 2023. Courtesy visit from En. Tazudin Mohtar from Sarawak Islamic Information Center Objective: Establish ibn khaldun gallery Develop special collection Management and preservation of special collection 17 March 2023. Benchmark visit by Muzium Negeri Pahang curators on manuscripts, artifacts and special collection preservation and conservation. Syed Muhammad Naquib Al-Attas 01/Jan-Mac 2023: : Library Matters
EDITORIAL TEAM ADVISOR Prof. Dr. Abdelaziz Berghout Prof. Dr. Waleed Fekry Faris Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Feham Md Ghalib Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nik Md Saiful Azizi Nik Abdullah PROJECT DIRECTOR Madam Zuraida Hassan EDITOR Dr.Nurul Ain Norman CONTENT MANAGER Khairul Nishak Harun COORDINATOR & DESIGNER Maryam Cao Ting COLLUMNIST Dr. Nurul Ain Norman Mohammad Eisa Ruhullah PHOTOGRAPHER Fedileh Hashim Zulhijjar Hazli Abdul Halim Rahmat Ramli