GARIIF 23: Adab culture of Arabic Islamic civilisation, does it contribute to unity?

By Radhia binti Shafie

GOMBAK, 8 December 2023: When we consider how civilizations have developed over time, we can see that their people behave virtuously and develop their knowledge and culture through cooperation. Thus, making the Global Arabic Islamic Anniversary Festival (GARIIF 23) a reality with its theme, “Upholding adab, strengthening knowledge, culture, and radiating virtues through the spirit of cooperation”.

The event is a collaborative effort between the Department of Arabic Language and Literature at the IIUM and other parties. It is scheduled to be running from 11 December to 18 December 2023.

By emphasising the significance of Arabic Islamic culture through various events and programmes, thus playing its role in exposing IIUM students to the notion of using their ideas and applying concepts and linguistics theories and, at a more advanced level, to apply their knowledge at the workplace.

Significantly, since the IIUM is known as a university that stresses Islamic-based teaching in every Kulliyyah. Thus, Arabic has evolved into IIUM’s second official language. Thoughts of expanding knowledge of Arabic Islamic Heritage among Malaysians, especially at the IIUM, have also developed. In order to further promote and commemorate World Arabic Language Day, the Department of Arabic Language and Literature is determined to hold GARIFF 23 on the day, which is celebrated on 18 December of each year.

Appropriately fitting GARIIF 23s theme in encouraging adab in behaviour by learning from Arabic Islamic civilisation and its rich adab culture as seen in our imitation of the Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) ways of life. It is also important to recognise that cooperative actions could highlight the best aspects of Islamic civilisation, such as working together to uphold moral principles.

Islamic principles must be put into practice in an effective manner. As a result, this programme aims to develop students who are capable of understanding the Islamic worldview and its significance as Muslims. This is especially so as to encourage them to increase their knowledge and preserve it for the benefit of the Ummah.

Similarly, Arabic history has played a part in bringing Muslims worldwide together. Muslims should pay attention to the history, literature, culture, and diversity of the Arabic language, since the study of Arab Islamic civilisation could contribute to the development of a just society in future. It serves as evidence for the historical accounts of the Arabic language and Islam.

Raising the awareness of Arabic Islamic Heritage in education by organising activities is essential by conducting GARIIF 23 through the cooperation of various parties. ***