‘The future of humanity is in Islam,’ says Prof. Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Koutoub at the 40th IIUM Convocation

By, Alif Alex

GOMBAK, 20 November 2024: A distinguished member of the IIUM Board of Governors and the Secretary General of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy, His Excellency Professor Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Koutoub Moustapha Sano officiated the fourth session of the 40th IIUM Convocation Ceremony held at the IIUM Gombak campus on 18 November, with a heartfelt speech which touched on the role of Islam in humanity.

He began his speech by highlighting the significance of the number 40 in Islam, connecting it to the IIUM’s 40-year legacy. He recalled how Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was entrusted with prophethood at the age of 40, symbolizing maturity and wisdom. He continued by congratulating the graduands and showering them with praise. “IIUM’s commitment to nurturing both intellect and character is evident in each of you. You have been prepared not only to excel professionally, but to lead wherever you will be with integrity, efficiency and purpose,” he added.

Professor Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Koutoub highlighted the hurdles and atrocities that the ummah is facing in the present day. He urged all graduands to assist the ummah by giving back to their communities with their newfound knowledge and expertise. “May Allah the Almighty alleviate the suffering of our brothers and sisters in Sudan, Lebanon, Palestine-particularly, in Gaza and grant them victory,” he remarked.

He expressed that graduating is not the end of the pursuit of knowledge, but rather it marks a new beginning in the lifelong journey of obtaining knowledge and skills. Referring to Artificial Intelligence (AI), Professor Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Koutoub encouraged graduands to acquire new skills and broaden their horizons through the responsible use of technology.

Professor Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Koutoub reminded graduands to instill patience within themselves when facing both joys and challenges in their future, expressing that the virtue of sabr will be indispensible. He quoted Imam al-Ghazali (Rahimahullah), by saying, “In order to get what you love, you must first be patient with what you hate.”

He also advised graduands to remain grateful to Allah SWT, their parents, teachers and the founding fathers of the IIUM. He also extended his gratitude to the Malaysian government and its people for their hospitality and support of Muslim youth from around the world.

He continued his speech in Arabic, offering invaluable advice and wisdom. “You will leave it to prove to the whole world that the future of humanity is in Islam, that happiness is in Islam, that pride is in Islam, that stability and security are in Islam, and that Islam is peace,” he stated. As a final remark, Professor Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Koutoub added, “Have complete faith that you are the hope that will with Allah’s willing and success, that will change the painful reality and bitter circumstances that the nation is going through, we entrust Palestine and all the Muslim countries to you.”***

(Arabic Translation by Hanin Badran.)