IIUM’s Commitment to Ummatic Excellence: Highlights from Al-Liqa’ Al-Jamaie 2025

By, Farhana Natrah

On 13 March 2025, the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) hosted a special event for the IIUM staff community, Al-Liqa’ al-Jamaie: IIUM’s Way Forward Towards Ummatic Excellence, at IIUM Gombak. The annual event serves as a platform for discussing IIUMs vision, aligning its goals with the needs of the Muslim community, and reinforcing its role as a leading institution in Islamic higher education. The event provides insights into IIUM’s strategic direction, academic priorities, and commitment to societal transformation.

IIUM has always been more than just a university, it is an institution dedicated to producing holistic, ethical, and globally competent individuals. The concept of of ummatic excellence goes beyond academic success, it encompasses intellectual, moral, and social responsibilities that contribute to the well-being of the ummah. Thus, in his keynote address, the Rector of the IIUM, Professor Emeritus Datuk Dr. Osman Bakar, emphasized the university’s responsibility to bridge traditional Islamic wisdom with modern advancements, ensuring that education remains meaningful, ethical, and impactful. He stated, “We must ensure that our educational approach integrates the timeless wisdom of Islam with the demands of contemporary society.” Al-Liqa’ also included an interactive session where staff members discussed strategies to enhance IIUM’s role in promoting ummatic excellence. These discussions emphasized the importance of aligning the university’s initiatives with the broader goals of the Muslim ummah.

Another critical aspect of the event was how IIUM can expand its role beyond academia and contribute to the wellbeing of the ummah. Several academics highlighted the need for service-oriented programs that bridge academia and real-world challenges, stronger industry partnerships to ensure graduates are career-ready while upholding Islamic ethics, and interfaith and intercultural dialogue to promote understanding and peace. They also mentioned about IIUM’s initiatives in community service, particularly in sustainability, poverty alleviation, and social justice, were commended as examples of how academic institutions can actively shape a better world. In addition, students were encouraged to take ownership of their learning and actively contribute to the university’s vision. Many young leaders shared their thoughts about how important it is to be independent and think like an entrepreneur, how youth activism can actually make a difference in society, and the need critical thinking and adaptability in a rapidly changing world.

Al-Liqa’ Al-Jamaie 2025 event served as a crucial platform for IIUM to reaffirm its commitment to ummatic excellence, a vision that integrates knowledge, faith, and service to humanity. Throughout the discussions, a common theme emerged, the need for IIUM to envolve while staying true to its Islamic foundations. The university aims to become not just a center of academic excellence but also a place for ethical leadership, community development, and global impact. As IIUM moves forward, the principles discussed at Al-Liqa’ Al-Jamaie 2025 must translate into real actions. The event was not just a reflection on past achievements but a call to action for the future. The pursuit of ummatic excellence is an ongoing journey, one that requires continuous effort, innovation, and most importantly, unwavering faith in the values that define IIUM.

Al-Liqa’ Al-Jamaie was more than just an academic gathering, it was a strategic dialogue aimed at shaping the future of IIUM and the broader Muslim community. By prioritizing knowledge, ethics, and service, IIUM is positioning itself as a global leader in Islamic higher education. As the university continues to evolve, the key takeaway from this event is clear, IIUM is committed to excellence, not just in education, but in the holistic development of individuals and societies.***