IIUM’s Shawwal Gathering 2025 Celebrates a Royal Presence in Appreciation of ASEAN’s Rich Cultures

By, Imad Hassan Basri

GOMBAK, 24 April 2025: The International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) came alive with vibrancy and unity as it hosted its annual Shawwal gathering at the IIUM Cultural Centre, with the theme “Raya ASEAN”, in honor of Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship 2025 this year. The event brought together the diverse tapestry of ASEAN cultures, encapsulating the beauty of shared traditions and festive joy, alongside the gracious presence of Their Royal Highnesses, Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, and Tengku Ampuan of Pahang, Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah.

The Honourable Rector of IIUM, Prof. Emeritus Datuk Dr. Osman Bakar, opened the celebration with heartfelt remarks, highlighting the importance of unity and shared responsibility as part of IIUM’s mission of ‘Rahmatan lil-‘Alamin.‘ In his speech, he remarked, “Today, we are not merely celebrating Shawwal. We are reaffirming our bonds as one ummah—an intellectual, spiritual, and academic ummah—united in fulfilling our divine amanah to educate, nurture, and uphold excellence.”

Adding a touch of compassion to the festive atmosphere, Their Royal Highnesses presented duit raya (zakat) to 20 IIUM staff members through the IIUM Endowment Fund (IEF), exemplifying care and solidarity within the IIUM family. The IIUM Rector reflected on this, stating, “Our strength lies in unity, and our unity is anchored in iman. Let us carry this spirit of Shawwal—renewal, gratitude, and resilience—as we continue to serve our community.”

The event’s highlight was the ASEAN cultural exhibition, featuring booths from six ASEAN countries—Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, the Philippines, and Cambodia. Guests were treated to a large variety of traditional delicacies, from Vietnam’s banh mi and spring rolls to Cambodia’s nom ansom and nom ban chok, offering a culinary journey through ASEAN’s rich heritage. The IIUM Rector praised the cultural exchange, noting, “The diversity we celebrate today reflects the principles of inclusivity and respect—values that IIUM holds dearly as part of its educational mission.”

Throughout the gathering, cultural performances by IIUM’s talented community captivated the audience. The IIUM Acoustic Band and IIUM Simfoni Arkana Nasyeed Club, under CiTRA, delivered evergreen eid songs such as Suasana Hari Raya, Dendang Perantau, and Salam Dunia, evoking the warmth and joy of the festive season. This was followed by a soulful solo performance by Akhmal Hakim Mohamad (also known as Cikgu Akmal) from CELPAD, which further added to the celebratory spirit.

In addition to the festivities, the gathering also marked a historic moment with the renaming of IIUM’s main library to M. Kamal Hassan Library, in memory of the late Prof. Emeritus Tan Sri Dr. Mohd Kamal Hassan. This ceremony was officiated by the Constitutional Head of IIUM, H.R.H. Tengku Ampuan of Pahang, Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah shortly after the Shawwal gathering at the university’s library. The renaming stands as an honor to the legacy of the former Rector, who played a pivotal role in shaping IIUM’s philosophical and academic identity. Reflecting on this, Prof. Emeritus Datuk Dr. Osman expressed, “Prof. Kamal Hassan’s dedication to integrating Islamic values with contemporary knowledge has left an indelible mark on IIUM and the global academic community.”

As the day concluded, the IIUM Shawwal Gathering 2025 stood as a profound reminder of the unifying power of cultural diversity and compassion. It highlighted the rich heritage shared by ASEAN nations and IIUM’s unwavering commitment to fostering unity and excellence. Through vibrant celebrations and the meaningful renaming ceremony, the event embodied the harmony and purpose that define both Shawwal and ASEAN’s shared values.***