Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – April 28, 2025 — President Dr Mohamed Muizzu delivered a powerful keynote address at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) following the conferment of an Honorary Doctorate in Islamic Leadership and Madani Development, urging the Muslim world to reclaim its legacy of scientific excellence and intellectual leadership.
In a lecture titled “Intellectual Renaissance: Unveiling the Scientific and Modern Development of Islamic Civilisation,” President Muizzu reflected on the Islamic Golden Age, when scholars and scientists from the Muslim world led the global pursuit of knowledge. He paid tribute to that era’s achievements and called for a revival of its spirit through unity, innovation, and the harmonisation of faith and science.
“Our past reminds us that the pursuit of knowledge is not only a cultural tradition—it is a sacred duty,” said President Muizzu. “We must reinvest in education, research, and technological innovation to once again become a beacon of wisdom and progress.”
He outlined a vision for a modern intellectual renaissance, with a strong focus on empowering youth through world-class universities, research hubs, and digital platforms. Underscoring the compatibility of science and faith, he challenged the misconception that the two are in conflict, instead positioning them as complementary forces essential for sustainable development.
President Muizzu also called for greater collaboration among Muslim nations, proposing cross-border research initiatives, innovation incubators, and shared knowledge platforms. He urged the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to take a more active role in shaping global conversations on science, sustainability, and ethics.
Addressing the broader concerns of the Muslim community, he condemned Israel’s aggression and voiced solidarity with those affected by conflict and injustice. He reiterated Islam’s enduring values of peace, compassion, and justice, and expressed hope for a future where every Muslim child has the opportunity to learn, thrive, and lead.
Highlighting emerging fields such as medicine, clean energy, and quantum computing, President Muizzu stressed that ambition, unity, and moral leadership are key to achieving transformative breakthroughs.
The address concluded with expressions of gratitude to IIUM’s leadership, faculty, and students. President Muizzu described the honorary doctorate as a shared commitment to advancing the Muslim world’s intellectual and ethical future.
The event was graced by Her Royal Highness the Tengku Ampuan of Pahang, Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah, along with university officials and distinguished educational leaders from across Malaysia.
President Muizzu’s message resonated as a timely call to action—inviting the Muslim world to once again lead in knowledge, innovation, and compassionate leadership.