‘Honesty is the Best Policy,’ says valedictorian Nurul Najwa at 40th IIUM Convocation

By, Amni Azizan

GOMBAK, 18 November 2024: Before the end of the second session of the 40th IIUM Convocation Ceremony at IIUM Gombak, on 17 November, Nurul Najwa binti Wahbi, who was awarded Best Student, delivered a valedictorian speech.

She was conferred the Master of Laws in Administration of Islamic Law from Harun M. Hashim Law Centre. Najwa felt the desire to broaden her knowledge specifically the administration of the Islamic law specialisation. She also found herself missing the enriching experience as an IIUM student during her undergraduate years, thus, she returned to the Garden of Knowledge and Virtue after working for a few years in the legal industry.

Additionally, sister Najwa said as graduates of the IIUM, they are entrusted with the responsibility to champion a sustainable, peaceful and ethical future. The concept of sustainability is profound in Islam based on the idea of Khalifah as caretakers of Allah’s creation. Allah said (Qur’an 6:38), “There is not a moving (living) creature on earth, nor a bird that flies with its two wings, but are communities like you.”

“In a world often divided with conflicts, we must remember that peace is more than the absence of war, it is an active state of harmony rooted in justice,” she said in her speech.

She emphasized the importance of justice as a foundation for peace, that is highlighted in the Quran (4:135), “O Believers! Stand firm for justice as witnesses for Allah.” She added in her speech that when moving into the workforce, do implement policies and practices that promote social justice and unity.

Furthermore, she urged graduates to carry through the principles of honesty, transparency and respect for all individuals. From an Islamic perspective, the concept of al-Hisab reminds us that every action we do will be measured not only in this world but also in the Hereafter as Allah said (Quran 67:2), “He is the One who created death and life in order to test which of you is best in deeds.”

Aside from personal success, Najwa persuaded her fellow graduates to embrace their roles as champions of sustainability, peace and ethics to make a meaningful impact in the world.

On behalf of all graduates, she expressed her heartfelt gratitude to their esteemed lecturers and members of the Kulliyyahs and institutes at the IIUM for their unwavering support, guidance and dedication as they have challenged them to think critically, engage deeply and strive for excellence and also to the administrative staff for their tireless efforts and hard work.

She concluded by thanking her parents and family members, whose support and prayers have become her source of strength and will never forget about the sacrifices they made. She also asked Allah SWT to bless them with all His guidance and protection.***