IIUM In-Touch Special Edition 2024

This special edition of In-Touch magazine marks a momentous occasion in the history of the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM)—the appointment of Professor Emeritus Datuk Dr. Osman Bakar as the university’s 7th Rector. As we extend our warmest welcome to Professor Osman, we also take this opportunity to celebrate his remarkable journey as a scholar, leader, and advocate of Tawhidic knowledge. Professor Osman brings with him a wealth of experience in academia and administration, having held prestigious positions across the globe. His leadership is rooted in a profound understanding of Islamic thought, coupled with a visionary approach to education that aligns seamlessly with IIUM’s mission of integration, Islamization, internationalization, and comprehensive excellence. Born in Maran, Pahang, Professor Osman’s academic journey began in mathematics, with degrees from Woolwich Polytechnic and Bedford College, University of London. He later ventured into the Islamic philosophy of science, earning a PhD from Temple University, Philadelphia, where his groundbreaking work laid the foundation for his future contributions to scholarship and thought leadership. As the author of influential works like Classification of Knowledge in Islam and Tawhid and Science, Professor Osman has played a pivotal role in shaping contemporary Islamic scholarship. His extensive teaching experience, spanning institutions like the University of Malaya, Georgetown University, and ISTAC-IIUM, reflects his passion for nurturing the next generation of scholars and thinkers. With his appointment as Rector, IIUM stands poised for new heights of excellence. His vision to champion Tawhidic epistemology and foster interfaith dialogue will undoubtedly enrich the university’s legacy as a global hub for holistic education. We invite you to explore this issue, which provides a glimpse of Professor Osman’s life, achievements, and aspirations for IIUM. As we welcome him into this esteemed role, we look forward to the transformative journey that lies ahead under his leadership. Welcoming Professor Osman Bakar: The 7th Rector of IIUM 5