VC RECEIVES COURTESY CALL FROM RIYADH DON

                   

16 August - Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Vice-Chancellor Professor Dato’ Dr. Omar Osman today received a courtesy call from Professor Dr. Asim Alqaryoti, from the University of Al-Imam Mohammadun Riyadh to discuss long-term cooperation between the two institutions.

Professor Dr. Asim was here in USM to give a series of lectures in USM Masjid al-Malik Khalid. He was accompanied by a USM Ph.D. student in Biological Sciences, Salah Salem Gurbel. Also present in the meeting was the Director of the Centre for Islamic Development Management Studies (ISDEV), Professor Muhammad Syukri Salleh. - http://www.usm.my

A NAS A WEEK - 19 SHAWWAL 1434

Abdullah bin 'Amr narrated that the Messenger of Allah said: " The merciful are shown mercy by Ar-Rahman. Be merciful on the earth, and you will be shown mercy from Who is above the heavens. The womb is named after Ar-Rahman, so whoever connects it, Allah connects him, and whoever severs it, Allah severs him." [Hadith from Jami' at-Tirmidhi, English reference: Vol. 4, Book 1, Hadith 1924; Arabic reference: Book 27, Hadith 2049].

THE SENSE OF TOGETHERNESS IS IN ISDEV

The opening slide to ISDEV Director, Prof. Muhammad Syukri Salleh (standing)
on the monthly Tarbiyah Pengarah ISDEV

25 August 2013 - Sense of togetherness is an essential ingredient in ISDEV that is embraced by each and every member of ISDEV. In fact this indispensible ingredient needs to be maintained and more enhanced now that ISDEV strives to be a Centre of Excellence. This statements and a detailed explanation on “Rasa Bersama” (Sense of Togetherness) was presented by ISDEV Director, Professor Muhammad Syukri Salleh in his Tazkirah specially known as the Tarbiyah Pengarah ISDEV during the July’s ISDEV Monthly Graduate Supervision at the University Conference Hall, USM on 19 July, 2013.

Prof. Syukri (left) addressing ISDEV members while Dr Fadzila Azni (right)
attentively listens

In his Tazkirah, Prof Syukri stressed on three main aspects which are required for this Sense of Togetherness in ISDEV. They are Same Responsibility, Same Pace and Same Effect. The Same Responsibility necessitates all ISDEV members to shoulder the same responsibility that is to strive for excellence in seeking Allah SWT pleasures. The Same Pace refers to the synchronization of each member’s commitment, discipline and sense of urgency in delivering a task at hand in ISDEV. As to the aspect on Same Effect, it matters not whether one wins or loses, succeeds or fails in endeavouring a task in ISDEV. What is of more importance is that whatever the outcome may be each ISDEV member is able accept the result with a sense of utmost grateful relief that Allah SWT decision is the best and that Allah SWT is pleased with the effort undertaken.

ISDEV members at DPU for the ISDEV Monthly Graduate Supervision

When all these three aspects are realised by every individual member of ISDEV only then that this Sense of Togetherness permeates into the heart, body and limbs of all ISDEV members. Indeed the exponential growth of ISDEV membership is a testimony of the presence of this Sense of Togetherness (Rasa Bersama) when anyone comes to ISDEV. When one is at ISDEV one is able to feel a warm and welcoming feeling that “You Are Not Alone”.

DR ESHRAT : ENHANCE THE USE OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE

Dr. Eshrat Basri, ISDEV Visiting Fellow

19 August - English is a global language that is used around the world. Thus every student and lecturer including supporting staff are recommended to learn and enhance the use of proper English in their daily lives both in communication as well as in the written form.

This personal opinion was expressed by Dr. Eshrat Basri, ISDEV Visiting Fellow in a simple Farewell Ceremony to commemorate the completion of his appointment as ISDEV Visiting Fellow. This short but sweet event was held on 25 July 2013 at the Meeting Room of C05.

Dr Eshrat Basri (left) receiving a Certficate of Appreciation from ISDEV Director, Prof. Muhammad Syukri Salleh (right)

In his speech, Dr Eshrat Basri stated that ISDEV has its own specialty and uniqueness which sets ISDEV apart from other Islamic institutions. Undoubtedly ISDEV students and lecturers were experts in their own right with excellent educational background on Islam. He stressed that he would recommend any other scholars to affiliate with ISDEV for at least two main reasons. Firstly, ISDEV strives to seek no other except the pleasure of Allah SWT (mardhatillah), and secondly ISDEV is willing at any time to welcome all to ISDEV.

A NAS A WEEK - 12 SHAWWAL 1434

And who is better in religion than one who submits himself to Allah while being a doer of good and follows the religion of Abraham, inclining toward truth? And Allah took Abraham as an intimate friend [al-Nisa', 4:125].

A NAS A WEEK - 5 SHAWWAL 1434

Umm Atiyya narrated: “We were ordered to go out for Eid and also take along with us the menstruating women, mature girls and virgins staying in seclusion. The menstruating women could present themselves at the religious gathering and invocation of Muslims, but should keep away from their mussalla [Hadith from the Translation of Sahih Bukhari, Book of the Eid Festivals Vol 2, Hadith No 981].

A NAS A WEEK - 28 RAMADHAN 1434

They ask you, (O Muhammad), what they should spend. Say, "Whatever you spend of good is (to be) for parents and relatives and orphans and the needy and the traveler. And whatever you do of good - indeed, Allah is Knowing of it" [al-Baqarah, 2: 215].

USTAZ TO-HA OF TV AL HIJRAH IN THE HOUSE

ISDEV members reciting the tahlil in unison

For those who love watching the live talk show "Assalamualaikum" which airs every Thursday to Sunday from 8.00am to 10.00am on TV Al Hijrah, would probably recognize the proprietary name of Taha Mohd Omar or better known as ‘Ustaz To-Ha’. He is a full-time PhD student at ISDEV under the supervision of ISDEV Director, Professor Muhammad Syukri Salleh. He is working on the Best Practices of Hajj and the Spiritualisation of Hajj Technological Facilities.

The unassuming Ustaz Taha

During the occasion of the ISDEV Iftar held on 18th July recently, Ustaz To-ha was given the task of leading the congregational Tarawikh prayers and delivering a 15-minute tazkirah in between the prayers. Citing the words from a Hadith he stressed out the advantages of fasting that Allah SWT has bestowed specifically for the ummah of Prophet Muhammad SAW compared to the previous ummah. First, the unbearable smell of the mouths who fast is more fragrant than musk to Allah SWT. Second, the fish in the sea continually seeks forgiveness for those who fast until the break of fast. Third, every day Allah SWT decorates His heavens for those whom Allah SWT says that His righteous servant’s time is up and whom Allah SWT wants to free from the burden of this worldly life. Fourth, the devils are locked up. Fifth on the last night of Ramadan Allah SWT will forgive the sins of those who fast like a worker who received his wages after he has completed his work.

ISDEV members prepare for the breaking of fast

The Tazkirah  by Ustaz Taha in session

Suraya one the newlyweds receiving the gift from Prof Syukri

Apart from the highlights of the night which were the breaking of fast and the congregational Tarawikh prayers, the ISDEV Iftar started with tahlil reading led by Ustaz Khairul Faizi. At the end of the occasion, ISDEV Director, Professor Muhammad Syukri Salleh presented gifts to three newlyweds of ISDEV (Suraya, Nuraisyah, and Dr Zahri's son). In addition, collection made by ISDEV for victims of the Aceh earthquake recently was also presented to Pak Isnaini, the representative of the North Sumatera chapter of ISDEV's Ikatan Pelajar dan Alumni (IPA).

ISDEV members enjoying the meal after the maghrib congregational prayers

This annual ISDEV Iftar event serves more than just the breaking of fast together but an opportunity to further strengthen the bond of Islamic ukhuwwah as well as the sharing of joy and sorrow among ISDEV fraternity. The event was hosted by ISDEV Associate Members (ABI) at Dewan Utama Desasiswa, Universiti Sains Malaysia. More than 100 ISDEV members and guests attended the event.

Dr. Mohd Shukri Hanapi in Ankara, Turkey

Opening Paper by Prof. Andrew Rippin: 
"On Contemporary Scholarly Reading of the Qur'an"

28 July - ISDEV lecturer, Dr. Mohd Shukri Hanapi was given a great opportunity, to be among famous academicians of the world, as one of the presenters at the 1st International Symposium on Rethinking the Qur'an. With the theme on Quranic Worldview, the symposium was held at Gur Kent Hotel, Ankara, Turkey from 2 until 8 May 2013. The symposium was organized by the Research Institute for Philosophical Foundation of Disciplines.

At the Research Institute for Philosophical Foundation of Disciplines

The Research Institute for Philosophical Foundation of Disciplines set the main objective of the symposium to establish that whatever is termed as tasawwur (or worldview) must be built from the ultimate main source that is the Qur'an. First it is not right that a tasawwur is said to be an Islamic tasawwur if it is based on the mind and logic alone; second “Quranic Worldview” is a new field which is not found in any symposium or conference that discusses about it; and third, the need to expose to the Muslim community in Turkey about this Quranic worldview. It is hoped that this Quranic worldview can become the mould to shape their lives.

Lunchtime: Dr Shukri (left) with Prof. Oliver Leaman (right) from  
University of Kentucky 

The participants of this symposium were academicians came from all parts of the world. Among them were from Lebanon, Egypt, Gambia, Palestine, Saudi Arabia (Mecca & Medinah), Yemen, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Canada, USA, Australia, South Africa, Azerbaijan, Holland, Algeria, Scotland and Malaysia.

With Prof. Werner G. Jeanrond (right) from the University of Oxford, 
an expert in the field of Theological Hermeneutics

This symposium was also attended by a number of world renowned academicians such as Prof. Andrew Rippin from the University of Victoria, Canada; Prof. Ziauddin Sardar from London and Prof. Oliver Leaman from the University of Kentucky, USA. 

A picture for keeps - with the Mayor of Ankara (third from right), Kamil Kilic

A NAS A WEEK - 20 RAMADHAN 1434H

Suhaib reported that Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) said: Strange are the ways of a believer for there is good in every affair of his and this is not the case with anyone else except in the case of a believer for if he has an occasion to feel delight, he thanks (God), thus there is a good for him in it, and if he gets into trouble and shows resignation (and endures it patiently), there is a good for him in it [Hadith from the Translation of Sahih Muslim Book 042: Piety and Softening Of Hearts, Hadith Number: 7138].

THE 8TH ISDEV INTERNATIONAL GRADUATE WORKSHOP 2013: CALL FOR PAPERS

ISDEV  will organize The 8th ISDEV International Graduate Workshop (INGRAW 2013) for 2 days starting from 30 October until 31 October 2013. The workshop will be held at Universiti Sains Malaysia Conference Hall, USM Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.

The deadline for the submission of abstract is 30th August 2013. Abstract could be emailed to Azreen Hamiza Abdul Aziz at azreenhamiza@yahoo.com

Further details of the Workshop are available at ingraw-2013.blogspot.com

A NAS A WEEK - 12 RAMADHAN 1434

And from [part of] the night, pray with it as additional [worship] for you; it is expected that your Lord will resurrect you to a praised station [al-Isra', 17:79].

ISDEV DELEGATES FACILITATE WORKSHOP IN BRUNEI DARUSSALAM

Dr Hajah Masnon, Ra'es KUPU SB, presenting a gift to Prof. Syukri at the Worskhop's Dinner

16 July - ISDEV Director, Prof. Muhammad Syukri Salleh and ISDEV lecturer, Ustaz Dr. Mohd. Shukri Hanapi were recently invited by the Kolej Universiti Perguruan Seri Begawan (KUPU SB), Brunei Darussalam in the capacity as facilitators for a workshop on Quality Assurance of Academic Management.

A presentation simply from the heart by Prof Syukri

The workshop was held at Mangrove Paradise Resort, Bandar Seri Begawan for three days from 4, 6 and 7 July 2013. The main objective of this workshop was to improve the understanding and management of the administration and management of KUPU SB highest academic administrators workforce so as to ensure quality and high standards of teaching and learning at KUPU SB simultaneously positioning KUPU SB as a more competitive educational institution globally in preparation of facing intense competition of the regional and international challenges of higher education.

Ustaz Dr Shukri presenting his paper

ISDEV delegates who acted as the facilitators helped the highest management of KUPU SB (Ra'es, Deputy Ra'es, Assistant Ra'es, Deans, Directors and Heads of Administrators) to revise and strategize its strategic plan, particularly in its academic quality. Prof. Muhammad Syukri Salleh delivered a talk on  Falsafah dan Pelan Tindakan Kualiti dalam Pengurusan Akademik di IPT (The Philosophy and Quality Action Plan in Academic Management of Public Higher Education Institution) as well as facilitating on Penambahbaikan Rancangan Strategik KUPU SB 2015-2019 (Improving the KUPU SB Strategic Plan 2015-2019). In the meantime, Ustaz Dr. Mohd. Shukri Hanapi delivered a talk on Tasawur Kualiti Akademik (The Worldview of Academic Quality).

Participants of the workshop including Prof. Syukri (seated second from the left)
and Ustaz Dr. Mohd Shukri (seated first from the left)

ISDEV too brought Associate Professor Dr. Ahmad bin Hj Mohammad, Director of Quality Centre USM, who delivered two introductory talks at the Workshop, that is on Kepentingan Jaminan Kualiti Akademik di IPT (The Importance of Academic Quality Assurance in Higher Education Institutions) and Amalan Jaminan Kualiti Akademik di IPT: Kriteria dan Standard Malaysia (Practices of Academic Quality Assurance in Higher Education Institutions: Criteria and Standards in Malaysia).

A NAS A WEEK - 6 RAMADHAN 1434H

Ibn Umar (radhiAllahu 'anhu) reported Allah's Messenger (salallahu 'alaihi wassalam) as saying: Seek it (Lailat-ul-Qadr) in the last (ten nights). If one among you shows slackness and weakness (in the earlier part of Ramadan), it should not be allowed to prevail upon him in the last week [Hadith from the Translation of Sahih Muslim, Book 6: Kitab al-Sawm, Hadith Number 2621].

ISDEV DELEGATES IN TUNISIA

Academic networking - Prof Syukri exchanging
contact information with Zeineb Zouari from Sousse University (left) and Assoc. Prof Dr Thouraya Haj Amor from Monastir University (right), Tunisia

12 July - ISDEV Director, Professor Muhammad Syukri Salleh and ISDEV Deputy Director, Dr Zakaria Bahari were on a 26 hour flight to Sfax, Tunisia to participate in the 2nd Sfax International Forum on Islamic Conference. They were there from 25th June till 2nd July 2013. The conference was organized by the University of Sfax and Tunisian Association of Zakat, with the cooperation of IRTI of the Islamic Development Bank.

Prof. Syukri (right) presenting his paper, chaired by Prof Dr Dhafer Saidane from Skema Business School, France (fourth from right)

The theme of the conference was on the Alleviation of Poverty Through Zakat, Waqf and Microfinance. Prof. Muhammad Syukri presented his paper on “Contemporary Vision of Poverty and Islamic Strategies for Poverty Alleviation”. His paper was meant to revisit the understanding of the so-called Islamic concept and strategies of poverty. Prof Syukri felt the need to emphasize on a true understanding of poverty as there seems to be numerous talks on Islamic institutions such as zakat and waqf to alleviate poverty, yet leaving the very meaning of the poverty undefined.

No time was spared - two postgraduate students from Sfax University seeking Dr. Zakaria's (right)
viewpoint during the break

Dr. Zakaria Bahari presented his paper on “From Subsistence to Productive Zakat : A Way for Poverty Alleviation of the Zakat Centre in Penang, Malaysia.” In the same line as Prof Syukri, Dr Zakaria pointed out that the various means and approaches currently undertaken in alleviating poverty is mainly through the western ethno-centric definition of poverty which are measured by ethno-centric indicators as carried out by the Islamic institutions such as zakat and waqf. This has led to the inability to tackle poverty alleviation holistically from the Islamic viewpoint as the instruments and tools used are based on the ethno-centric indicators. These tools have shown to be insufficient tools of analysis when solving matters related to Islam. This definitely has to be corrected.

A NAS A WEEK - 29 SHA'BAN 1434

The month of Ramadhan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur'an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey - then an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship and [wants] for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you; and perhaps you will be grateful (al-Baqarah, 2: 185).

ISDEV MONTHLY GRADUATE SUPERVISION

The Tazkirah : The Method of Seeking Knowledge based on Tauhiid

1 July - The ISDEV Monthly Graduate Supervision for June 2013 was held at the University Conference Hall (DPU) of Universiti Sains Malaysia on Friday 28 June, 2013. The program started at 9.30am with a brief Tazkirah delivered by Ustaz Dr. Mohd. Shukri Hanapi who emphasized on “The Method of Seeking Knowledge Based on Tauhid” (Kaedah Menuntut Ilmu Berasaskan Tauhid).

A serious Dr. Shukri delivering the Tazkirah

Dr. Shukri used Surah Al–‘Alaq as a template to explain that in whatever one does the dependence of hope on Allah SWT should at all times be present. However the scope of his Tazkirah, by making reference to Surah Al–‘Alaq, was about seeking knowledge. He stressed that one must have belief that Allah SWT is the absolute owner of knowledge and when one has learned to have self-discipline, pray, strive and place reliance on Allah SWT in seeking knowledge then the knowledge sought will be given blessings and mercy and thus brings success.

This Tazkirah session of the “Tarbiyah Perngarah” which was customarily delivered by ISDEV Director, Professor Muhammad Syukri Salleh during ISDEV Monthly Graduate Supervision was adjourned to the next month. Prof Syukri and his Deputy, Dr. Zakaria Bahari were in Tunisia, representing USM and ISDEV, to present their papers at the 2nd Sfax International Forum on Islamic Conference.

Dr Fadzila Azni lectured on Operational Definitions

The next session then continued with Dr. Fadzila Azni Ahmad delivering her lecture on “Operational Definitions”. A few students were asked to answer several questions based on their thesis and dissertation for a much better and in-depth understanding. A Q & A session also arose after her lecture. The supervision ended at 12.30 pm.

Ustaz Syakir (front-right) answering a question posed by Dr Fadzila Azni

A NAS A WEEK - 21 SHA'BAN 1434

Narrated Sa'd bin Abu Waqqas radhiAllahu 'anhu: Allah's Messenger salallahu 'alaihi wassalam said, "He who eats seven 'Ajwa dates every morning, will not be affected by poison or magic on the day he eats them [Hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 63: The Book of Foods (Meals), Chapter 16, Hadith Number 1905].

TUESDAYS TEACHINGS

28 June –  There was a good turn out of ISDEV members during this session of Tuesdays Teachings on 25 June 2013. The Tazkirah for this session was given by Dr Fadzila Azni Ahmad on "Sikap Solaful Salihin Menyambut Ramadhan"  (The Attitudes of the Pious in Welcoming Ramadhan).

Ustaz Syakir's teachings from the book Hidayah Salikin

In her Tazkirah, Dr. Fadzila Azni began by describing that there are three types of people in welcoming Ramadhan. The first two types are those belonging to the happy group while the third group belongs to the sad group. However in the two happy groups, the one group is filled with delight of the coming of Ramadhan because they are still alive to reap the bountiful promises in terms of the intangibles through the multiplication of rewards, blessings, solat tarawikh and the advent of the night of Qadr given by Allah SWT only and solely in the month of Ramadhan. The second happy group however is happy for tangible things like the existence of Bazaar Ramadhan, sale of Kuih Raya, Baju Raya, Buffet Ramadhan and other promotions that is specific in the month of Ramadhan.

For the third group who welcomes the blessed month of Ramadhan with sadness, this group viewed Ramadhan as threatening to their easy going lifestyle as they are not allowed to eat and drink in public easily, smoking and other activities.

Dr. Fadzila Azni reminded ISDEV members to follow the first type of the happy group and that since Ramadhan is only a few days away to ensure that the preparation and planning for the Agenda of Ramadhan is consciously and pro-actively done.

Ustaz Shahir (right) as Chairperson looks on while Ustaz Syakir
answers one of the questions posed

The teachings session then continued on the “Adab (Islamic Manners) While Taking the Wudhu' (Ablution)” by Ustaz Syakir who made detailed explanations from the book Hidayah Salikin by Syeikh Abdul Samad al-Palimbani on the finer points that a Muslim need to take note of when taking the ablution. An ala mock viva session ensued when Dr Mohd. Shukri Hanapi asked Ustaz Syakir three questions based on his teachings that day.

Ustaz Shahir Akram served as the Chairperson for the day.

A NAS A WEEK - 15 SHA'BAN 1434

[Fasting for] a limited number of days. So whoever among you is ill or on a journey [during them] - then an equal number of days [are to be made up]. And upon those who are able [to fast, but with hardship] - a ransom [as substitute] of feeding a poor person [each day]. And whoever volunteers excess - it is better for him. But to fast is best for you, if you only knew [al-Baqarah, 2:184].

TUESDAYS TEACHINGS

Almost non-existent exam-fever mood - Full house yet again at C05

20 June – The exam-fever mood among MISDEV’12 students are here again but Alhamdulillah, C05 is still packed with ISDEV members during this session of Tuesdays Teachings on 18 June 2013. With the title of ‘Nikmat Kesenangan adalah Ujian daripada Allah SWT’ (Delightful Grace is a Test from Allah SWT), the Tazkirah was delivered by Ustaz Dr. Mohd. Shukri Hanapi with a brief discussion ensuing thereafter.

Dr. Mohd Shukri Hanapi giving his Tazkirah for the day

In his Tazkirah, Dr. Shukri emphasised and reminded all those present not to be too complacent and joyful when bestowed with delightful grace but that one should be grateful and pray that with the gift of such grace one will not stray far from Allah SWT. This is because delightful grace is also a test from Allah SWT. In fact it is more frightening than the test of hardships. The test of hardships usually brings one closer to Allah SWT as one would incessantly supplicate and ask for Allah SWT help. However the test of delightful grace may cause one to forget and be contented thereby causing one to defy Allah SWT. The story of Qarun and his treasures was such an example as given by Dr. Shukri.

A bashful Ustaz Syakir (center) in delivering the topic of the day

The teachings session then continued on the “Adab (Islamic Manners) in the Lavatory” by Ustaz Syakir who focused on the way that ought to be followed by Muslims in responding to one nature’s call. A lively question and answer session followed thereafter immediately.

ISDEV Director, Professor Muhammad Syukri Salleh, ISDEV Deputy Director, Dr. Zakaria Bahari, ISDEV lecturer, Dr. Fadzila Azni Ahmad and the School of Social Sciences lecturers, Dr. Asmat as well as Dr. Sharifah were among those who attended this week’s Tuesdays Teachings.

A NAS A WEEK - 7 SHA'BAN 1434

Abu Huraira reported Allah's Messenger (sallahu 'alaihi wassalam) as saying: When there comes the month of Ramadan, the gates of mercy are opened, and the gates of Hell are locked and the devils are chained [Hadith from the Translation of Sahih Bukhari, The Book of Fasting (Book 6), Chapter 1, Hadith Number: 2361].

ISDEV DELEGATES PRESENTED AT SAFI 2013

Keynote Speaker Prof Zakaria Stapa  (left) with the Chairman of SAFI 2013,
Dr Muhammad Razak Idris (right)

13 June – On 21to 22 May 2013, three ISDEV members were at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) to present their research papers at the Simposium Antarabangsa Falsafah Islam (SAFI) 2013. They consisted of ISDEV lecturer, Ustaz Dr. Mohd. Shukri Hanapi and two MISDEV’12 students, Mohd Syahmir Alias and Nurul Nadiah Md. Salleh.

Ustaz Dr. Mohd. Shukri Hanapi presenting his paper

Mohd Syahmir (with the laptop) presenting his paper

Ustaz Dr. Mohd. Shukri Hanapi presented his paper on “Falsafah Pembangunan Lazim: Kritikan dari Perspektif Tasawur Islam” (The Conventional Development Philosophy: A Critique from the Islamic Worldview Perspective) while Mohd Syahmir Alias presented his paper on “Falsafah Pemikiran Saintifik Ibn al-Haytham” (The Philosophical Scientific Thoughts of Ibn Haytham). Nurul Nadiah Md. Salleh’s presentation of her paper was regarding the “Falsafah Kaedah Pengajaran dan Pembelajaran Lazim: Analisis Dari Perspektif Tasawur Islam” (Philosophical Methods of Conventional Teaching and Learning: Analysis from the Islamic Worldview Perspective).

Nurul Nadia (right) listening attentively to a presentation

About 40 presenters presented their papers at the symposium. SAFI 2013 was jointly organized by the Jabatan Usuluddin dan Falsafah, Fakulti Pengajian Islam, UKM and Yayasan Pembangunan Ekonomi Islam Malaysia (YaPEIM) as well as Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka Malaysia (DBP). 

ANAS A WEEK - 30 RAJAB 1434

And those who strive for Us - We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good [al-'Ankabut, 29:69].

The First Ban Nua Language Camp

Straight from the heart - Mohd. Rizal (seated-centre) with his students

June 7 - On 23 April 2013, six ISDEV delegates who were sent to the Ban Nua Language Camp finally arrived in Penang. The camp which took place for 15 days in the Ban Nua Village at Hatyai, Thailand had accomplished and met its objective. The ISDEV delegates who participated in the camp were Murni (leader), Nur Ilani, Nuruleifaa, Nurhidayah, Abdullah Fahimy, and Mohd Rizal. They had successfully played their roles as the Malay Language and English Language teachers.

Nuruleifaa (left) about to begin her class

The language camp which was the first-of-its kind camp was organized by the Ban Nua Community had received an overwhelming response. A total of 216 students aged between 9 to 13 years old participated in the camp. Those students hailed from the states of Southern Thailand which included Songkhla, Yala, Satun, Narathiwat, and Pattani. The objective of the camp was to cultivate the Islamic culture in human’s life beginning from the young through the language medium. The camp was fulfilled with meaningful activities as early as 4.00am and lasted until 9.00pm every day.

Lesson in session - Nur Ilani and Nurhidayah conducting their class

Abdullah Fahimy (left - back row standing) with his class
after the students' assessment test

The preparation for both the Malay and English languages teaching had begun much earlier with Dr Idris Mansor, who acted as the language coordinator for the camp. From 9.00am until 3.00pm every day, the Malay and English classes were conducted in the Ban Nua School, located immediately beside the Ban Nua Mosque. The language classes were separated according to the gender, of which 134 were female while the remaining students were male. There were seven classes divided among seven teachers.

Now as students - ISDEV delegates learning the Thai Language

In addition to teaching the languages, ISDEV delegates also grabbed the opportunity to learn the Thai language to facilitate their communications with the Ban Nua Community. The Thai class had been conducted by two teachers from Ban Nua School who were also fluent with the Malay and English Languages.

All eyes on Murni as she imparts knowledge from her heart

Besides honing their teaching skills and contributing to the language literacy, the 15 days experience of living in the fishermen’s village in Thailand to teach in the language camp, have allowed these ISDEV delegates to gain much more than could be hoped for through reflections and the lessons learnt especially  in strengthening their spiritual aspects.

A NAS A WEEK - 24 RAJAB 1434H

Abu Huraira reported Allah's Messenger (salallahu 'alaihi wassalam) as saying: Avoid suspicion, for suspicion is the gravest lie in talk and do not be inquisitive about one another and do not spy upon one another and do not feel envy with the other, and nurse no malice, and nurse no aversion and hostility against one another. And be fellow-brothers and servants of Allah [Hadith from the Translation of Sahih Muslim, Book: 32, Kitab Al-Birr Was-Salat-I-Wa'l-Adab (The Book Of Virtue, Good Manners And Joining Of The Ties Of Relationship), Chapter 7: Forbiddance Of Suspicion, Fault-Finding, And Bidding Against The Other (For Raising The Price), Number 6214]. 

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