CLOSING SPEECH
YB. DATO’ SERI DIRAJA DR. ZAMBRY ABD KADIR
MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION
MALAYSIA MADANI INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM 2024: ISLAM AND MODERATION
(SAIK 2024)
4TH JULY 2024 (THURSDAY)
Bismillahirrahmanirrahim,
Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh,
[SALUTATIONS]
Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
[APPRECIATION]
1. First and foremost, I am grateful we are able to gather today at the closing ceremony of the inaugural Malaysia Madani International Symposium 2024 (SAIK 2024).
2. I would like to extend my highest appreciation and congratulations to the Islamic Science University of Malaysia (USIM) and its collaborative partner, the Muslim Youth Movement of Malaysia (ABIM), for organizing this event.
3. The aim of this symposium is to provide a comprehensive understanding and guidelines on the meaning of Islam and Moderation according to the specific themes that have been set.
4. To achieve this, 22 speakers have been gathered, including academics and activists from various countries and diverse backgrounds, to share their thoughts and perspectives.
5. My deepest appreciation goes to all the speakers from within and outside the country who have contributed their thoughts, ideas, and new insights based on Islam and Moderation as a guide for understanding contemporary times.
Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
[MODERATION / WASATIYYAH]
6. Islam is a religion that emphasizes balance in life. Moderation, or wasatiyyah, is one of its main principles, teaching us to always be just and avoid extremism in all matters, whether in worship, daily life, or worldly affairs.
7. Moderation is a fundamental principle in Islamic teachings, frequently highlighted in the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad.
8. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 143, it is stated:
“Thus, We have made you [Muslims] a just nation so that you may be witnesses over mankind and the Messenger will be a witness over you.”
9. This verse highlights the important role of Muslims as a just and balanced community in all aspects of life.
10. Many people may not realize that moderation is also crucial for intellectual development. It plays a significant role in shaping the way people think and act which affects the well-being of the community.
11. Prominent Islamic thinkers, such as the late Prof. Dr. Yusuf Al- Qaradawi, the late Sheikh Dr. Taha Jaber Alwani, the late Prof. Dato Dr. Siddiq Fadzil, the late Prof. HAMKA, who were involved in Islamic movements, have always prioritized moderation in their approach to addressing the challenges faced by the community.
12. As highlighted by the late Prof. Dr. Yusuf Al-Qaradawi in his book 'Islamic Awakening: Between Rejection and Extremism,' rejection and extremism oppose the practice of enjoining good and forbidding wrong, which is rooted in a moderate and balanced approach.
13. In today's Islamic world, Prophet Muhammad's aspirations, centered on tajdid (renewal) and islah (reform), aim to foster a balanced and moderate mindset within the community, addressing issues of damage, hostility, and division.
14. In this context, under the leadership of Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, the Malaysian government has introduced the concept of 'Malaysia Madani,' focusing on six pillars: sustainability, prosperity, innovation, respect, trust, and compassion.
15. This initiative is timely and fits perfectly with the objectives of the symposium themed 'Envisioning Moderate Muslims for the Contemporary World’.
16. Furthermore, the affirmation that moderation is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of strength, reinforces the principles upheld by this symposium.
17. Through this symposium, various themes have been discussed by each speaker and panellist, providing insights and ideas as a guide for all of us in facing contemporary challenges.
18. In the concluding session, the perspectives shared by Sheikh Prof. Yahya Al-Ninowy, Dr. Nazirudin, Prof. Din Syamsuddin, and others touched on the importance of Islam's emphasis on balanced and moderate actions and thoughts, positioning Muslims as exemplars and contributors to societal harmony.
19. This matches the words in Surah Ali-Imran, verse 110 which states:
“You are the best community ever raised for humanity. You encourage good, forbid evil, and believe in Allah.”
20. This verse guides Muslims to consistently strive to be the best community, balancing worldly and spiritual matters, and emulating the character of Prophet Muhammad in every aspect of life and thought.
Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
[CLOSING]
21. Before I close, I extend my sincere thanks to everyone who participated in this symposium, and I once again congratulate USIM and ABIM for the successful organization of this event.
22. Such collaborations are trusted to cultivate new generations with a moderate and objectives-oriented mindset, crucial for safeguarding religious interests, life, intellect, lineage, and property.
23. This approach promotes sustainable and equitable development, supported by fair and just national leadership, fostering a peaceful and harmonious society.
24. This symposium has set a standard and inspired the development of more thinkers, scholars, and leaders who embody moderation and resilience in addressing contemporary challenges.
25. As we bring this symposium to an end, let us all strive to embrace the principle of moderation in our daily lives.
With that, I thank you very much.
Wabillahi Taufik Wal Hidayah, Wassalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh
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