UMAM Strengthens International Ties Through Majlis Iftar Jama’i Ramadan 1446 H
In the spirit of Ramadan, filled with blessings and brotherhood, Universiti Muhammadiyah Malaysia (UMAM) organized the Majlis Iftar Jama’i on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at Hotel Seri Malaysia, Kangar, Perlis. This event served as a crucial moment in fostering international harmony and reinforcing UMAM’s role as a center for Islamic propagation, knowledge, and humanitarian efforts in Southeast Asia.
The event commenced with an address from UMAM’s Rector, Dr. Saidul Amin, M.A., who reflected on Ramadan as a time for contemplation and a strategic opportunity to strengthen spiritual values while reinforcing the university’s academic and societal mission. In his speech, he introduced and emphasized the concept of “Heart, Head, and Hand” as UMAM’s academic and practical paradigm.
“At UMAM, we nurture a generation founded on the Heart—sensitivity, empathy, and noble character. Then the Head—the ability to think critically, process knowledge, and provide solutions. Finally, the Hand—the ability to act concretely, bringing direct benefits to society and humanity. This is the trilogy of Islamic propagation and progressive education,” he stated.
This concept serves as the core philosophy in all aspects of UMAM’s development: academics, community engagement, internationalization, and spirituality.
The second address was delivered by Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail, the Raja Muda of Perlis, who emphasized the crucial role of Islamic educational institutions in shaping knowledgeable, well-mannered societies that are dedicated to serving the ummah. He also commended UMAM as the first Muhammadiyah university outside Indonesia actively promoting moderate Islamic values through education and international collaboration.
Accompanying him was Tuanku Dr. Lailatul Shahreen Akashah Khalil, the Raja Puan Muda of Perlis, who warmly engaged with guests, community leaders, and delegates from Indonesia.
The event was also attended by several prominent Malaysian national figures, including:
- YBhg. Dato’ Zuraida Kamaruddin, former Minister of Housing and Local Government Malaysia and former Member of Parliament for Ampang, widely recognized as an advocate for women’s empowerment and urban community development.
- YBhg. Dato’ Suhaimi, former Member of the Malaysian Parliament, actively involved in social and community development.
- YBhg. Dato’ M. Noh, a close associate of UMAM and philanthropist, who symbolically handed over Ramadan donations to underprivileged groups.
Donations were distributed to dozens of beneficiaries from the local community, embodying the value of the ‘Hand’ in UMAM’s approach to Islamic propagation—making a direct impact on those in need.
Also present at the event were rectors and leaders from Muhammadiyah and Aisyiyah Higher Education Institutions (PTMA) in Indonesia, including:
- Universitas Muhammadiyah Jambi
- Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Barat (UM Sumbar)
- Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara (UMSU)
- Universitas Muhammadiyah Muara Bungo
- STKIP Aisyiyah Riau
Additionally, a delegation of 150 people from the Regional Leadership of Muhammadiyah (PWM) Riau and PWM Jambi, including the Chairman of PWM Jambi, attended the event, demonstrating concrete support for strengthening international collaborations under the Muhammadiyah movement.
The majlis concluded with a Ramadan sermon, collective prayers, and a communal iftar, creating a warm, spiritual, and grateful atmosphere. This gathering reflected the unity of the ummah, despite diverse cultural and geographical backgrounds.
As the first Muhammadiyah university outside Indonesia, UMAM continues to assert its identity as a higher education institution that not only produces scholars but also cultivates individuals of strong character, knowledge, and societal contribution. The Heart, Head, and Hand philosophy is not merely a slogan but a guiding principle driving UMAM’s mission to build an enlightened and progressive Islamic civilization.