Master's Students of FAH Explore Islamic Manuscripts and Modernity in Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, UIN Online News— Five students from the Master's Program at the Faculty of Adab and Humanities (FAH) at UIN Jakarta, accompanied by their academic advisor, commenced their academic journey in the International Student Mobility program.

A visit to the ISTAC-IIUM Library and the KLCC Twin Towers on Friday (21/2/2025) seeks to expand their understanding of history and Islamic culture while familiarizing them with the processes of cultural and technical advancement in Malaysia.

Investigating the Abundance of Islamic Manuscripts at ISTAC-IIUM

The event began with a tour of the ISTAC-IIUM Library, located on the grounds of the International Islamic University Malaysia. The master's students were exposed to a collection of traditional Islamic texts; thus, they enthusiastically explored these historical texts that serve as major research sources for Islamic history and culture.

"This collection brings me closer to the foundations of Islamic intellectual tradition, allowing researchers to comprehend the significance of this manuscript as a vital heritage in historical development," Iin Isnaini, FAH master's student involved in the International Student Mobility program, stated.

They were also given a chance to see the manuscript digitization process being conducted at ISTAC-IIUM. The digitalization method aims to conserve intellectual legacy and provide access to classical works for future generations.

"This digitization is crucial for the preservation and sharing of knowledge globally," Dr. Mauidlotun Nisa’, Secretary of the Master's Program in Islamic History and Culture, explained.

Comprehensive Academic Discourse

After examining the manuscript collection, these master's students engaged in the Colloquium of Thesis Research present their preliminary research results to ISTAC-IIUM experts.

Ilma Nailu presents her statement on her research on colonial-era dress: "This presentation process has significantly enhanced my comprehension of the necessity for a more rigorous methodology in cultural analysis, particularly in fashion studies,".

Two master's students: Siti Khotijah, who examines the socio-religious dimensions of the Abangan population in Blora; and Nabila Rana, who investigates semiotics in Mahmoud Darwish's poetry, also receive constructive feedback from the ISTAC-IIUM scholars during their discussion. 

Traces of Modernity at KLCC Tower

After an intense academic discussion, they continue their journey to the main icon of Malaysia's architecture and culture, Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC). This visit gives students the opportunity to see how modernity and tradition can blend together to create a distinctive national identity.

"The KLCC Tower is not just a symbol of technological achievement, but also a representation of how Malaysia integrates cultural values and national heritage into the modern world," Dr. Ida Farida, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Adab and Humanities, explained.

Students study how the KLCC Tower combines traditional Malaysian elements like hibiscus motifs with modern technological advancement; it reflects a spirit of nationalism that balances history and the future.

Connecting Academic and Cultural Insights

The first day of the International Student Mobility program offered a valuable academic experience and expanded cultural perspectives. Eneng Malihatinnajah, who presented her research on the socio-economic dynamics of fishermen at Karangantu Harbor, articulated, "This educational trip enhanced my understanding of the Islamic research topic. It is good to know other nations' perspectives towards cultural and historical developments,".

Through this activity, students can sharpen their comprehension of the study of Islamic history and culture, as well as see its relevance in an increasingly global world. This program is also expected to serve as a bridge to establish closer academic relationships between universities and educational institutions at the international level.

(Sabila Weliza/Aida Adha S./Fauziah M./Muhamad Arifin Ilham/Photo: Muhammad Yahya)