PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has underscored the vital role of education in nurturing not only intellectual growth but also instilling fundamental human values such as freedom, peace, and unity.
Speaking at the ‘Meet Anwar@IIUM: A Special Homecoming’ programme held at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) in Gombak today, Anwar stressed that the education system must empower students with the ability to distinguish between right and wrong, in addition to imparting academic knowledge.
“When I talk about knowledge, whether it is economics or politics, for all political scientists here in the making, for technology, for science, the fundamental values of freedom, justice and human dignity must be there and that stands on values,” he told the audience of nearly 3,000 students and staff gathered at the university’s Cultural Activities Centre.
The event featured an open dialogue between the Prime Minister and the university community, offering a platform for candid engagement on national and educational issues. Also in attendance were Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shaari and IIUM Rector Professor Emeritus Datuk Dr Osman Bakar.
Anwar highlighted the unique responsibility of Islamic institutions in fostering mutual respect and genuine understanding across different communities, urging a departure from ideologies that fuel division and hostility.
“Islam must also be other than the worship (solat) and tithe (zakat); it is also to promote peace, justice and understanding of humanity. Not to sow the seed of discord and differences,” he said.
While reaffirming Malaysia’s identity as a Muslim-majority country where Islam is the religion of the Federation, Anwar pointed out that over 40 per cent of the population are non-Muslims. He stressed the need to honour and embrace this diversity.
“Why do we have ‘Rahmatan lil Alamin’ (blessings to all creation)?… (Not to) propagate hatred, racial, racism, fascism and discord. So, you must remember, we may be an Islamic university, but here, the Islamic university is to promote the true understanding of Islam,” he said.
“Not hatred towards others, but understanding, literary appreciation and the ability to value one another.”
Addressing the issue of social media usage, Anwar called on Malaysians to wield digital platforms with greater responsibility and restraint, cautioning against content that misrepresents the nation’s values or culture, particularly in relation to Islam and Malay identity.
“You have the freedom to use social media, but what do you do? Abuse it, full of deceit, full of hatred, in the name of Islam and the Malays. I am a proud Malay, and I deeply value our cultural heritage,” he said.
“I believe the Malays possess what I call a beautiful cultural grief… tolerance, the ability to accommodate others and to respect differences. No racism.”
In support of IIUM, the Prime Minister announced a government allocation of RM5 million for the maintenance of student hostels, laboratories and sanitation facilities.
During the event, Anwar also witnessed the handover of a RM1.3 million contribution to the AbuSulayman International Student Fund (AISF) at IIUM. The donation was made by Dr M. Yaqub Mirza, President of the Centre for Islam in the Contemporary World at Shenandoah University, on behalf of Sterling Management Group (SMG), and was presented to Professor Osman in his capacity as Chairman of the IIUM Endowment Fund (IEF). – April 11, 2025
