In a significant step towards promoting scholarly research on Islamic principles and their application to contemporary socio-economic issues, the Islam & Liberty Network (ILN) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Institute of Advanced Islamic Studies (IAIS) Malaysia. This partnership, marked by the signing event attended by prominent figures such as Dr. Ahmad Badri Abdullah, Deputy CEO of IAIS, and Dr. Ali Salman, CEO of ILN, represents a collaborative effort to explore the intersection of Maqasid Shariah (the higher objectives of Islamic law) and the concept of a free society.
The MoU establishes the “Maqasid and Free Islamic Society Fellowship Programme,” a groundbreaking initiative that will host a scholar at IAIS for a one-year research fellowship. This program aims to conduct seminal research on how the fundamental principles of Islamic objectives can be aligned with modern socio-economic frameworks, particularly focusing on economic freedom for individuals and institutions in Muslim-majority countries.
Highlights of the MoU Signing Event
The signing of the MoU took place in a formal ceremony witnessed by notable dignitaries, including Tunku Zain Al-Abidin ibni Tuanku Mukhriz, Founding President of IDEAS, and Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr. Syed Hamid bin Syed Jaafar Albar, representing IAIS AGM Members. Their presence underscored the importance of this partnership in contributing to the broader discourse on Islam and liberty.
Dr. Ali Salman, CEO of ILN, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting the potential of this fellowship to generate impactful research that bridges Islamic thought with contemporary socio-economic issues. Dr. Ahmad Badri Abdullah echoed these sentiments, noting that IAIS Malaysia is well-positioned to support such initiatives given its extensive resources and network of scholars.
The Fellowship Program: Objectives and Structure
The “Maqasid and Free Islamic Society Fellowship Programme” is designed to provide scholars with the resources and support necessary to delve deep into the study of Islamic principles and their relevance to modern economic and political contexts. The fellowship will focus on identifying and exploring concepts of a free society within the framework of Maqasid Shariah, with particular attention to religious, economic, and political freedoms.
The selected fellow will have access to IAIS Malaysia’s vast academic resources, including libraries and databases, and will receive mentorship from experienced scholars. Throughout the fellowship, the scholar will engage in various research and educational activities, such as writing articles, papers, and policy briefs, as well as participating in webinars, lectures, and conferences. The program aims to culminate in a comprehensive report that synthesizes the fellow’s findings and contributions.
Strategic Importance of the MoU
This MoU marks a strategic collaboration between ILN and IAIS Malaysia, two institutions dedicated to advancing the understanding of Islam’s role in contemporary socio-economic issues. By combining ILN’s focus on promoting religious, political, and economic freedoms with IAIS Malaysia’s expertise in Islamic studies, this partnership is poised to contribute significantly to the global discourse on Islam and liberty.
The fellowship program not only provides a platform for scholars to conduct in-depth research but also ensures that the findings are disseminated widely through public engagement initiatives. This approach is particularly important in fostering informed discussions and influencing policy-making in Muslim-majority countries.
Conclusion
The signing of the MoU between ILN and IAIS Malaysia represents a milestone in the ongoing effort to explore and articulate the compatibility between Islamic principles and the ideals of a free society. Through the “Maqasid and Free Muslim Society Fellowship Programme,” both institutions are committed to producing research that not only deepens our understanding of Islamic objectives but also addresses contemporary challenges in socio-economic governance.
As this partnership unfolds, it is expected to pave the way for new insights and practical solutions that can guide Muslim-majority societies towards greater economic freedom, social justice, and political stability, all within the framework of Islamic values.
Authored by Noor Netusha Nusaybah
