IIUM In-Touch Special Edition 2024

To achieve global recognition, I’m focusing on our flagship journals. We need publications that will be known worldwide, representing the highest quality in areas like Islamization, integration, and interdisciplinary studies. Just as Harvard and other esteemed universities are known for their journals, I want IIUM to have its own iconic scholarly platforms. Preparing our students to thrive globally is also essential. The quality of our students is central to this vision, and I encourage them to take part in international events, to travel, and to showcase the strength of IIUM wherever they go. We want our students to represent IIUM as ambassadors, sharing our values and commitment to excellence in diverse settings. My own journey has taken me across multiple disciplines —from mathematics to philosophy, then to religion and civilization—and I believe in cultivating versatility among our scholars. Education should not limit knowledge to narrow fields. Scholars must be expansive, understanding the intersections across disciplines, particularly in the social sciences and humanities. This broad understanding enriches one’s outlook and enhances intellectual resilience.To keep IIUM as a role model, we must remain at the forefront of knowledge. After all, universities are fundamentally knowledge institutions, and our reputation depends on advancing intellectual frontiers. I want to see our faculty and postgraduate students contribute in ways that capture the world’s attention. This healthy competition is essential for our growth, and with Allah’s guidance, we will, inshallah, gain global recognition for our academic achievements. As I embark on this journey with IIUM, my vision is clear: I want our university to be known not only for its Islamic foundation but for our contributions to global academia, fully embodying Ihsan—the highest standard of excellence in every field. 17