ISDEV RESEARCH DISCOURSE: TALK ON "THE STATE OF MUSLIMS IN SINGAPORE"

Associate Professor Dr. Syed Muhd Khairudin Aljunied from Department of Malay Studies,
National University of Singapore

Associate Professor Dr. Syed Muhd Khairudin Aljunied from the Department of Malay Studies, National University of Singapore (NUS) gave a talk at the recent ISDEV Research Discourse on 19 October 2015. The charismatic Assoc. Prof. Dr. Khairudin shared the findings of his research and observations on "The State of Muslims in Singapore". The talk held at Conference Room C06, School of Social Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and was chaired by ISDEV Deputy Director, Associate Professor Dr. Zakaria Bahari.

Associate Professor Dr. Zakaria Bahari (centre), the chair person for the day.

The two-hour long discourse was divided into two parts. The first part saw Assoc. Prof. Dr. Khairudin Aljunied delivering his talk explaining and sharing his research findings and experience on the current state of Muslims in Singapore. He chose to address the participants of the discourse in an informal way as he welcomed a two way communication throughout his talk.

Assoc Prof. Dr. Kahirudin's passion and enthusiasm on the topic were apparent throughout the discourse

The Muslims in Singapore are the minority in Singapore. However he noted that some of the challenges faced by the Muslims in Singapore are similarly faced by those in Malaysia. He also acknowledged that some of the issues uniquely faced by the Muslims in Penang specifically are the self-same issues faced by the Muslims in Singapore. Issues such as the dearth of intellectualism, hanging dearly onto some detrimental Malay customs especially in wedding receptions (as opposed to the ideal Islamic way), drugs, increasing trend in divorce rates, single mothers, lesbianism and the role of parents in family especially of those concerning men were among the issues he highlighted.

In addition he shared  his personal views on one main factor as how the Muslims in Singapore could be strong and overcome the seemingly insurmountable problems that need to be tackled. He expressed the need and importance for the Muslims in Malaysia especially to stay united to be strong as there is the tendency of the Malay Muslims in Singapore to look up to Malaysia. He justified his statement by citing the importance of the strong da'wah movements in the late 70s until early 90s which saw the latching of Islamic spirit to the Muslims in Singapore.

However he noted that the labeling of ideologies within the Muslims in Malaysia leading to the formation of factions within has definitely marred any attempts for the Malay Muslims to be united and strong. As a force to be reckoned with, when the Muslims in Malaysia are united and strong, such strength and force will surely have a rippling effect in the region causing a definite overflow of such vigor and energy to the Muslims in Singapore.

A cozy and comfortable atmosphere at C06 albeit the venue was overly full-housed

A little after an hour of his talk, a fellow academician from the School of Social Sciences, Puan Zainab and a few RISDEV (ISDEV Postgraduate by Research) and MISDEV (ISDEV Postgraduate by Mixed-Mode) students kept the enthusiasm displayed by the guest speaker with some pertinent questions and views on the topic of the day during the second session of the discourse. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Khairudin answered and responded all in his stride and ended the discourse with a positive note on his mission through his intellectual sojourn to bring his message on the need for all Muslims in this region to solidly stay united. Staying through to his passion and task at hand he is currently appointed as Visiting Professor at the University Brunei Darussalam (UBD). The programme ended at 4.30 pm with a simple high tea for everyone who came for the ISDEV Research Discourse.

A NAS A WEEK - 13 MUHARRAM 1437

And if Allah were to impose blame on the people for what they have earned, He would not leave upon the earth any creature. But He defers them for a specified term. And when their time comes, then indeed Allah has ever been, of His servants, Seeing [Fathir, 35:45].

ISDEV AND UNIVERSITÄT LEIPZIG PLANING FOR COOPERATION IN ISLAMIC RESEARCH

Universität Leipzig to ISDEV - The ambience of the meeting at C05.

Centre for Islamic Development Management Studies (ISDEV) received a courtesy visit from one of the oldest universities in the world and the second-oldest university (by consecutive years of existence) in Germany,  Universität Leipzig on 7 October 2014. The cordial meeting was held at C05, ISDEV Meeting Room, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). The five delegates of Universität Leipzig were led by Dr. Simon, accompanied by Dr. Josephine, Maryem and two Postgraduate students, Liza and Elizabeth.

Dr. Simon and Dr. Shahir Akram looking happy and cheerful during the meeting

ISDEV Director, Professor Dr. Muhammad Syukri Salleh started the meeting with an ice breaking session to get to know each other and the area of specialisation. Prof. Syukri then gave a detailed overview of ISDEV which included the various academic courses offered, past and on-going research that ISDEV is embarked in as well as ISDEV plans for the future.

Universität Leipzig delegates (far from right) Dr. Josephine, Maryem, Liza and Elizabeth.

Besides broaden the collaboration between USM in generally, the purpose of the visit is to share knowledge and seeking potential research area in ISDEV that can be collaborate between these two institutions. Focusing in education and religious study, Leipzig delegates are very keen to know more about Islam and the research done at ISDEV. Based on the discussion, they were impressed with the various area of research in ISDEV and expressed their interest in the area of Islamic research methodology which they find it as an interesting field to explore more. They also used the opportunity wisely in this meeting by sharing some information and their experiences about their research area. It is eagerly hope that this visit mark the beginning of further cooperation in the near future between these two institutions. 

A group photo after the meeting with ISDEV Director, lecturers and Leipzig delegates

Also present at the meeting were Dr. Rabiatul Adawiyah and Dr. Noranida from School of Education, USM. Both of them were the person who introduced Leipzig delegates to ISDEV. ISDEV lecturers, Dr. Fadzila Azni Ahmad, Dr. Mohd Shukri Hanapi, Dr. Shahir Akram Hassan, Dr. Mohd Syakir Mohd Rosdi, Dr. Wan Norhaniza Wan Hasan, Dr. Azrin Ibrahim, as well as Nurul Farhana Che Hassan ( ISDEV Social Research Officer) and Azreen Hamiza Abd Aziz (ISDEV Academic Staff Training Scheme- ASTS) were also among those who attended the meeting.

A NAS A WEEK - 6 MUHARRAM 1437H

Abdullah ibn Amr reported: A man asked, “O Messenger of Allah, which emigration is best?” The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “To emigrate from that which Allah disapproves. Emigration is of two kinds: the emigration of the resident and the bedouin. As for the emigration of the bedouin, he responds when he is called and he obeys when he is commanded. As for the emigration of the resident, its trial is more severe and its reward is greater.” [Source: Musnad Ahmad 6774; Grade: Sahih (authentic) according to Ahmad Shakir].

ISDEV RESEARCH DISCOURSE: ALL ARE CORDIALLY INVITED

With great pleasure and honour ISDEV would like to invite all of you especially to all ISDEV members to attend an academic programme called “ISDEV Research Discourse” that will be held on next Monday 19 October 2015 located at C06, Social Sciences Confrence Room, University Sains Malaysia (USM).

The programme will start at 2.30pm until 4.30pm with Associate Professor Dr. Hj Zakaria Bahari will be the Moderator of the programme.

Special guest from National University of Singapore (NSU), Associate Professor Dr. Khairudin Aljunied will delivered his talk on "The State of Muslims in Singapore".

To those who interested to attend and for further information kindly contact:

Dr. Fadzila Azni Ahmad

Tel: 604 - 653 4603/ 5812   or  Email: sukainah@usm.my

All are cordially invited.

DIRECTOR'S TARBIYYAH: "BATTLE IN BLISSFULNESS"

Professor Dr. Muhammad Syukri Salleh stressing a point on the need for struggles and sacrifice
to attain a continuous state of blissfulness

"Berjuang dalam Kebahagiaan" (Battle in Blissfulness) was the catch title of "Tarbiyyah Pengarah" (Director’s Tarbiyyah) on 2 October, 2015. This was the topic of the monthly "Tarbiyyah Pengarah" addressed to ISDEV fraternity by ISDEV Director, Professor Dr. Muhammad Syukri Salleh which  was held at the Conference Room of C23, School of Social Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). 

In his address, Prof. Syukri said that ISDEV is not only a purely academic centre but it also acts to make people realize about the magnificence and wonders of Islam specifically in academia and generally in all aspects of life. But such beauties of Islam could only be illustrated through good manners exhibited by each and every ISDEV member in particular and Muslims in general. Such exhibition of excellent manners is also known by the term "Kecemerlangan Berakhlak” (Excellence of Manners).

One of the slides presented by Professor Dr. Muhammad Syukri Salleh

However the ability to produce such wondrous outstanding characters in an individual definitely require going through struggles which are presented within ourselves (overcoming the mazmumah - bad and despicable - characteristics within ourselves), man's most conspicuous unseen enemy - the devil - who has promised at all times to mislead the Muslims, or from outside ourselves such as the munafik (hypocrites) and kafir harbi (hostile disbelievers). 

All these struggles certainly come with sacrifice. There are times when we feel sad, depressed, loss of confidence and despair, but all these negative feelings can be eliminated if we always put Allah SWT at the top place in our lives. Constantly believing that Allah SWT will always be with us at all times, assist, protect and reward us with every struggle and sacrifice that we make for the sake of Islam are keys to overcoming every struggle that meets us on our path in life. 

Prof. Syukri also added by stating that everyone needs to build good relationships and a blissful ambiance with friends as well as developing the feelings of love, sincere care and concern and helping one another so that the challenges that one is faced is mixed with happiness. In other words, facing one's battles in blissfulness by establishing good relationships among fraternity. Being in battle does not necessarily refers to physical fights but can also be implied to include a quiet-state battle. 

Dr. Mohd Shukri Hanapi (holding microphone)
 sharing his struggles as a presenter in an international conference at Adelaide, Australia 

Oozing out of ISDEV also can be part of struggling in happiness. Verily in fortifying and increasing one’s knowledge and propagating the call to Islam, a Muslim is very much encouraged to travel (musafir). ISDEV members need to be instilled with the characteristics of a Messenger who goes about on this world and are able to share knowledge, disseminate knowledge and teach as well as lead. Not only seen as a journey alone, but those who had traveled out of ISDEV are considered as striving for Islam. The same goes to the activities and programmes organised by ISDEV. Each participation needs to be viewed as a struggle for the sake of Islam.

ISDEV fraternity patiently listening to the Director's Tarbiyyah of the day

At the end, Prof. Syukri concluded that every struggle necessarily requires sacrifice. And each sacrifice if done with sincerity merely for the sake of Allah SWT, in shaa Allah every struggle will gain the wonderful rewards such as happiness from Allah SWT. This happiness will be the result if all ISDEV fraternity and Muslims have the understanding, harmony of thoughts and actions, cooperation and selflessness in order to realize the beauty of Islam.

A NAS A WEEK - 29 DZUL QA'IDAH 1436

Indeed, those whom the angels take (in death) while wronging themselves - (the angels) will say, "In what (condition) were you?" They will say, "We were oppressed in the land." The angels will say, "Was not the earth of Allah spacious (enough) for you to emigrate therein?" For those, their refuge is Hell - and evil it is as a destination [al-Nisaa', 4:97].

ISDEV MONTHLY GRADUATE SUPERVISION: FIRST FOR MISDEV"15

Full house at C23 Social Sciences Conference Room

The first ISDEV Monthly Graduate Supervision for this 2015/2016 Academic Sessions  took place on Friday, 2nd October 2015 at C23 Social Sciences Conference Room, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). It was actually the first experience for MISDEV'15 (ISDEV Postgraduate by Mixed-Mode) students and the newly registered RISDEV (ISDEV Postgraduate by Research Mode) students.

Professor Dr. Muhammad Syukri Salleh delivering the 'tarbiyyah' in his full focus

At 9.00 am sharp the graduate supervision started with the recitation of the ummul kitab Al-Fatihah and the recitation in one voice of Asma Ul Husna. ISDEV Director, Professor Dr. Muhammad Syukri Salleh then delivered his tarbiyyah on “Berjuang dalam Kebahagiaan”. 

Mr. Ahmad Sofwan Nathan Abdullah sharing his expertise on writing Literature Reviews and Abstracts

The programme then continued with the Monthly Graduate Supervision on "Writing Literature Reviews and Abstracts: A Critical Approach" by Mr. Ahmad Sofwan Nathan Abdullah, who is a Language Lecturer at the School of Languages, Literacies and Translation, USM. He led this session by providing a detailed explanation on the technical aspects and terms that are required and should be borne in mind at all times for those who were keen to write academically in the English Language. 

To gauge the understanding of his lecture, he gave some on-the-spot exercises for ISDEV members to practice. ISDEV members are eager and in full enthusiasm to ensure they grasp the concept and terms explained that day so that they could get a clearer understanding of the new knowledge in writing literature reviews and abstracts. The programme went well with lively questions and answer sessions that transpired throughout his lecture.

Listening attentively with utmost concentration towards Mr. Ahmad Sofian's explanations

Also present that day were ISDEV Acting Deputy Director, Dr. Fadzila Azni Ahmad who also served as Chairperson for the entire programme, ISDEV Senior lecturers Dr. Shahir Akram Hassan, Dr. Mohd Syakir Mohd Rosdi, Dr. Wan Norhaniza Wan Hasan, Dr. Mohd Shukri Hanapi, Dr. Azrin Ibrahim as well as administrative staff.

A NAS A WEEK - 21 DZUL HIJJAH 1436

Sa’d reported: Umar ibn Al-Khattab asked permission to see the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, while some women from the Quraish were sitting with him and they were asking for his financial support while raising their voices above his. When asked permission to enter, all of them hurried to veil themselves. The Prophet admitted Umar and he entered while he was smiling. Umar said, “May Allah preserve your smile, O Messenger of Allah. Let my father and mother be sacrificed for you!” The Prophet said, “I am amazed by these women who were with me. As soon as they heard your voice, they hastened to veil themselves.” Umar said, “You have more right that they should be modest for you, O Messenger of Allah.” Then Umar turned to them and he said, “O enemies of your own souls! You are modest for me but not the Messenger of Allah?” The women replied, “Yes, for you are stricter and harsher than the Messenger of Allah.” The Prophet said, “O son of Khattab, by the one in whose hand is my soul, whenever Satan sees you taking a path, then he will take another path.” [Source: Sahih Bukhari 5735; Grade: Sahih (authentic) according to Al-Bukhari].

ISDEV QURBAN 2.0: THE FEAST OF GRATITUDE CONTINUES

 Some of guests that came for the ISDEV Qurban lunch

One of ISDEV’s principles is to maximise and strengthening brotherhood, hence this year Eiduladha, ISDEV took the opportunity to celebrate the ‘eid with the University’s Development Department staff. The meaningful event was held at the Development Department (Jabatan Pembangunan) building on 29th September 2015. 

The Director of Development Department, Haji Aziz Che Jusoh delivering his simple speech

The Director of Development Department, Haji Aziz Che Jusoh in his speech expressing his gratitude on behalf of his staff and really moved by ISDEV ‘recognition’ to the Department. Its first in history, such recognition was held for them at the building.

ISDEV Director, Professor Dr. Muhammad Syukri Salleh and Haji Aziz Che Jusoh having an excitement informal talk during the 'kenduri'

The Qurban lunch was celebrated by all levels of the Development Department staff. It is one way of saying thank you to the Department whom has been really helpful to ISDEV itself and the university at large.

MISDEV'14 brothers help in sacrificial slaughtering of the cow

Two days prior to the Qurban lunch, the slaughtering of cow was held at Nur Afifah Abu Hassan’s  (ISDEV Mixed-Mode student batch 2013 or also known as MISDEV'13) house in Relau, Sungai Bakap, Penang on 27th September 2015. At 8.00 am, MISDEV’14 students (ISDEV Mixed-Mode student batch 2014) gathered at Juru Plaza Toll and convoyed to the slaughtering place.

Skinning the sacrificial slaughtered cow

The short briefing on the slaughtering activity was given by the Programme Director, Ustaz Aisamuddin when everyone’s arrived at the destination. It is continued by a meaningful tazkirah by MISDEV’14 class leader, Ustaz Afnan Hamimi. The tazkirah was about the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim a.s. and his long-awaited son, Prophet Ismail a.s. Sacrifice or tadhiyyah by the Prophet Ibrahim should be followed by all Muslims. It’s the genuine sacrifice in seeking mardhatillah.

MISDEV'14 sisters also help in cutting and dividing the meat

The slaughtering started at 9.30 am, followed by skinning the sacrificial slaughtered cow, cutting and dividing the qurban meat, preparing of lunch by the Muslimah of MISDEV’14 and the villagers. All of them were enjoyed the tempting lunch and the programme ended at 12.30 pm by closing speech from Programme Director, Ustaz Aisamuddin; ISDEV Senior lecturer, Dr. Mohd Syakir Mohd Rosdi; and the host, Nur Afifah Abu Hassan.

Group Photo of MISDEV'14 and beloved lecturers Professor Dr. Muhammad Syukri Salleh and Dr. Mohd Syakir

The above two events were indeed among the most rewarding and meaningful events and memories to all MISDEV 14 students whom been assigned to organise the qurban, the feast of gratitude by the lecturers.

Jazakumullahukhoir kathiran everyone!