By Nur Eirfan
GOMBAK, 15 February 2023: The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, urged all educational institutions to promote the active implementation of critical thinking in a function at International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) last Saturday (11 February).
“The lack of understanding and the lack of rigorous exchange has led the Muslim nation to become mere followers,” Anwar said in reference to scholarly works.
When discussing this issue with the Minister of Education and Higher Education, he emphasised the need to do away with the archaic manner in which educational institutions don’t encourage students’ critical thinking.
However, Anwar stressed that critical thinking must come from a thorough understanding of the subject matter and the ability to consider others’ views before solidifying own stance.
Critical thinking must not be used to harp on sensitive issues such as race or religion. “Criticism must be through reasonable discourse,” Anwar advised.
He encouraged universities to consider and take in the differing views of students, in the hopes to nurture their ability in regards to critical thinking.
The speech was delivered by the Prime Minister in Wadi Budi in collaboration with a function for AbuSulayman International Student Fund.
The session was held at 1.30 p.m and attended by the Rector, Prof Emeritus Tan Sri Dzulkifli Abdul Razak, and Dr Yaqub Mirza.***