By, DAdibah Amir
On 28 November 2024, IIUM proudly hosted the 2nd Islamic Universities Coordination Meeting under the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), bringing together academic leaders and representatives from various Islamic universities to foster collaboration and discuss strategic initiatives for shared progress. In conjunction with this prestigious gathering, IIUM Communiversity Edutourism organized an engaging campus tour aimed at showcasing the university’s flagship projects and initiatives that reflect its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community engagement.
The tour welcomed 12 distinguished delegates from OIC-member universities, offering them firsthand experience of IIUM’s transformative projects across three key locations:
1. Makerspace at the Kulliyyah of Engineering
The tour commenced at the Makerspace, a dynamic hub for technological innovation and creative problem-solving. Delegates were introduced to student-driven projects that showcased the integration of smart technologies, sensor-based systems, and advanced remote monitoring systems. The interactive environment of the lab provided delegates with an immersive experience, allowing them to witness firsthand how IIUM empowers students with hands-on technical skills while fostering creativity and critical thinking.
2. Animal Shelter Project at Mahallah Aminah
The next stop was the Animal Shelter Project at Mahallah Aminah, an initiative that emphasizes compassion, ethical treatment of animals, and community responsibility. Delegates observed how IIUM students actively manage the shelter, ensuring proper care, hygiene, and medical attention for rescued animals. This project also serves as an educational platform, raising awareness about animal welfare through Islamic principles of kindness and stewardship.
3. Stingless Bee Sanctuary at Rector’s Hill
The final destination was the Stingless Bee Sanctuary at Rector’s Hill, a serene environment dedicated to the conservation and sustainable harvesting of kelulut honey. Delegates learned about the ecological importance of stingless bees and their role in pollination and biodiversity conservation. The sanctuary not only produces high-quality halalan tayyiban honey products but also serves as an educational site for visitors and students, promoting environmental responsibility and sustainable farming practices.
Throughout the tour, delegates had the opportunity to interact with project leads, student volunteers, and academic mentors, gaining valuable insights into IIUM’s innovative approach to integrating academic knowledge with practical, community-driven solutions. The visit not only highlighted the university’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) but also reinforced the importance of collaboration between Islamic universities to address global challenges collectively.***
(Dr. Adibah Amir is an academic in the Department of Manufacturing and Materials Engineering, Kulliyyah of Engineering, International Islamic University Malaysia.)
- A Mass Protest by Muslims in Bangladesh, in Solidarity with Palestine - April 30, 2025
- ‘IIUM students must use opportunities to acquire knowledge’ – PM - April 30, 2025
- How do international students celebrate Eid in their home countries? - April 24, 2025