M. Kamal Hassan Library: Honoring a Legacy of Knowledge and Vision

By, Imad Hassan Basri

GOMBAK, 24 April 2025: In a moment of profound significance, the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) renamed its main library in Gombak campus to M. Kamal Hassan Library, paying tribute to the late Prof. Emeritus Tan Sri Dr. Mohd Kamal Hassan. The renaming ceremony, held shortly after IIUM’s Shawwal Gathering 2025, took place at Level 2 of the library and honored the remarkable contributions of the former Rector to the university and the wider academic world. 

The ceremony was officiated by Her Royal Highness Tengku Ampuan of Pahang, Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah, the Constitutional Head of IIUM. Attended by members of the IIUM leadership, including the IIUM President, Tan Sri Samsudin Osman, and the Rector, Prof. Emeritus Datuk Dr. Osman Bakar, the event highlighted the profound impact of Prof. Kamal Hassan’s vision on shaping IIUM’s identity. 

Prof. Emeritus Tan Sri Dr. Kamal, often regarded as the ‘Father of IIUM,’ played an instrumental role in the development of the university, particularly during his tenure as its third Rector from 1998 to 2006. His dedication to integrating Islamic values with contemporary knowledge and fostering intellectual excellence has been the foundation of IIUM’s mission as a global Islamic institution.

Originally known as Dar Al-Hikmah, the library’s renaming symbolizes a bridge between past wisdom and future aspirations, mirroring the former Rector’s belief in the harmony between tradition and modernity. The event also emphasized his profound influence on IIUM’s philosophy and its commitment to the integration of values and knowledge for the benefit of humanity.

In his remarks, Rector of IIUM, Prof. Emeritus Datuk Dr. Osman praised the former Rector’s legacy, stating, “Prof. Kamal Hassan’s vision and leadership were pivotal in establishing IIUM as a center of academic excellence rooted in Islamic principles. His dedication to the tawhidic paradigm has left an indelible mark on the university and the broader academic community.”

A poignant moment of the ceremony was the airing of a montage featuring a recording of a speech by the late Rector. In the recording, he imparted his wisdom, “We are the leaders of the future. The important vision of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ sees the inherent role of Islam as producing leaders, not merely servants. Leading with amanah, integrity, and ihsan—to do good beyond the legal—and with love: love for Allah, love for the Prophet, and love for humanity.” These words encapsulated his philosophy, inspiring all present to carry forward his legacy with steadfast dedication. 

The ceremony concluded with H.R.H. Tengku Ampuan of Pahang signing the commemorative plaque bearing the new name and touring the library, where she visited the exhibition dedicated to the former Rector’s contributions. The exhibition includes information and collections related to his works, serving as an educational resource for the IIUM community and the public. Open now to the public and IIUM community, the exhibition offers a window into his profound influence on academia and the integration of Islamic values into modern knowledge. 

In essence, the library renaming, served not only as a celebration of Prof. Kamal Hassan’s enduring legacy but also stands as a testament to IIUM’s gratitude and recognition of a man whose contributions transcended the boundaries of academia, fostering a vision of education deeply rooted in Islamic principles and global aspirations. With this new name, it is hoped that the M. Kamal Hassan Library will continue to serve as a beacon of knowledge, guiding IIUM’s community in their pursuit of excellence, unity, and service to humanity.***