Latest news with #IslamHadhari
The Sun
6 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
MARA urged to create leadership module inspired by Pak Lah
KUALA LUMPUR: Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) has been urged to create a special leadership module inspired by the late Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, known as the 'Pak Lah Leadership' module. The proposal aims to reinforce the Malay and bumiputera agenda by embedding values of knowledge, ethics, and integrity in future leaders. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi suggested integrating the module into MARA institutions such as Maktab Rendah Sains MARA (MRSM), Institut Kemahiran MARA (IKM), Kolej Kemahiran Tinggi MARA (KKTM), and GIATMARA. This initiative seeks to produce technically skilled bumiputera youth with strong moral character and leadership qualities. Ahmad Zahid, who is also the Minister of Rural and Regional Development, recommended expanding MARA's education programmes into economic corridor regions. This expansion would distribute development opportunities nationwide, reducing over-reliance on the Klang Valley. He also proposed increasing MARA Mobile Training Centres in rural areas to provide technical and digital training directly to underserved communities. His speech was delivered by Deputy Minister of Rural and Regional Development Datuk Rubiah Wang during the 'Pemikiran Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi' symposium. The event was attended by MARA Chairman Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, MARA Director-General Datuk Zulfikri Osman, and Universiti Poly-Tech Malaysia (UPTM) Vice-Chancellor Associate Professor Dr Sharifah Syahirah Sy Shiekh. Ahmad Zahid also highlighted the need for a special programme called 'Islam Hadhari Entrepreneurs,' promoting modern entrepreneurship guided by Islamic principles. He encouraged academic research on Tun Abdullah's leadership style through UPTM to preserve his legacy for future generations. The Islam Hadhari approach, introduced by Tun Abdullah, aligns with the Malaysia MADANI concept under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Both frameworks emphasise inclusive, progressive, and resilient nation-building. The symposium, attended by over 500 participants, featured discussions on leadership, policy, and Malaysia's development under Tun Abdullah's tenure as the fifth prime minister. – Bernama
Malaysiakini
29-04-2025
- Politics
- Malaysiakini
A tribute to our gentle statesman
LETTER | On April 15, Malaysia bade farewell to another exemplary Malaysian, Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, the country's fifth prime minister. Fondly known as Pak Lah, he was a leader of quiet strength, a man of principle, and a true patriot who steered Malaysia with wisdom and compassion. He, however, also had a share of being hounded by fellow politicians, all because he wanted to bring much-needed reform to the country. Reforming Malaysia is not easy, as there are forces at work opposing any change in the status quo. We see a similar situation being played out now as the unity government tries hard to bring the much-needed change. Born in Bayan Lepas, Penang, on Nov 26, 1939, Abdullah's journey in public service spanned decades, marked by his unwavering commitment to good governance, moderation, and national unity. He was prime minister from 2003 to 2009. His leadership was defined by his sincerity, approachability, and a deep respect for democratic values. I have listened to Pak Lah a few times talking about how he wanted to raise the country's level of scientific excellence. I once, by chance, met him on a Malaysia Airlines flight to Cairo. He was the deputy prime minister then. I was on the way to Cairo for a promotional seminar on palm oil. During the brief stopover in Beirut, we both stayed on board. We spoke and he told me that as the deputy PM, he was always given a book to read by then PM Dr Mahathir Mohamad. He showed me how the key sentences in the book were underlined for him. And he said he truly valued his boss. Serving the rakyat Under his administration, Malaysia saw significant reforms in the judiciary, anti-corruption efforts, and a push for greater transparency. His gentle demeanour belied a firm resolve to uphold justice and fairness, earning him the respect of both allies and adversaries. Abdullah's passing is a profound loss for Malaysia, but his legacy endures in the institutions he strengthened and the values he upheld. He reminded us that leadership is not about power, but about service; not about rhetoric, but about action. He placed country above self. His contributions helped shape a better Malaysia. While his tenure was not without criticism, many consider him among the better prime ministers. One of Abdullah's most enduring intellectual contributions was his promotion of Islam Hadhari, or 'Civilizational Islam.' It was a moderate, progressive interpretation of Islam that encouraged development, good governance, and scientific and cultural advancement in line with Islamic principles. In a way, it was quite close to the Madani initiative. This helped position Malaysia as a moderate Muslim-majority nation. It was also a message of tolerance, coexistence, and multiculturalism at a time when the global narrative around Islam was increasingly tense. Economic growth Abdullah launched the National Integrity Plan in 2004 and established the Malaysian Institute of Integrity to strengthen public ethics and integrity. He encouraged civil servants and the public sector to embrace good governance and transparency. Many Malaysians remember his tenure as a time when they could speak more freely and hope for reform. He focused on the economy, especially the agriculture and biotech sectors, to ensure rural development and food security. Under his leadership, agriculture was rebranded as a modern economic sector, offering better incomes and opportunities for rural communities. He also oversaw strong economic growth during his early years and continued policies that brought in foreign investment while reducing public debt. Abdullah placed strong emphasis on education and research and development. He significantly increased funding to universities and R&D, and supported autonomy for public universities. He envisioned a knowledge-based economy, recognising that Malaysia's long-term growth needed to be driven by human capital and innovation. Compared to previous eras, civil liberties expanded under Abdullah. The media landscape was relatively more open. The space for civil society and political discourse widened, and opposition leaders faced less repression than before. His leadership saw the 2008 general election, where the opposition made unprecedented gains, seen as proof of his commitment to fairer democratic processes, even if it weakened his own coalition. Calm control Abdullah was well-respected internationally. His mild and diplomatic style made Malaysia a more approachable and constructive player in Asean and global affairs. Malaysia's image abroad as a progressive, multi-ethnic, moderate Muslim country was reinforced under his stewardship. Unlike many politicians, Abdullah was seen as personally humble, soft-spoken, and uncorrupted. His leadership style was consultative, reflective, and inclusive, earning him quiet respect even among critics. While Abdullah may not have been the most assertive or politically aggressive leader, many Malaysians remember his tenure as a period of calm, moderation, and decency. He tried to move Malaysia towards greater openness, ethics in governance, and balanced development. His legacy lies not just in economic statistics, but in the values of moderation, accountability, and compassion he tried to embody. We need more leaders like him, a true statesman! AHMAD IBRAHIM is affiliated with the Tan Sri Omar Centre for STI Policy Studies at UCSI University and an associate fellow at Ungku Aziz Centre for Development Studies, Universiti Malaya. The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.
Malay Mail
25-04-2025
- Politics
- Malay Mail
A noble statesman, a moral compass: Remembering Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi (1939–2025) — Iqbal Khan
APRIL 25 — Former (fifth) Prime Minister of Malaysia (2003–2009) Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi — affectionately known as 'Pak Lah' — was a gentle and soft-spoken man but led his nation with strength, dignity, humility, and a deep sense of moral responsibility. His legacy endures not only in public policy but in the quiet power of his presence, his character, and his humanity. Tun Abdullah governed Malaysia during a time of transition and promise. His tenure was marked by a gentler, more inclusive form of leadership — one that offered a striking contrast to the hard politics we see today. He articulated a vision of Islam Hadhari, a forward-looking and inclusive philosophy that emphasised knowledge, economic progress, social justice, and interfaith harmony. It positioned Malaysia as a global leader in principled and progressive Muslim leadership. As a reformer, Tun Abdullah prioritised clean government, institutional reform, and human capital development. His leadership fostered trust and transparency, championing civil service transformation, anti-corruption measures, and balanced growth. Even after relinquishing office, he left behind a standard for decency, modesty, and sincerity rarely matched in public life. I had the honour of meeting Tun Abdullah on multiple occasions that continue to resonate with me, not only for their historical significance but also for the personal wisdom and warmth they embodied. I first met with Tun Abdullah when I was still the Global CEO of HSBC Amanah, i.e. when Tun Abdullah came to the East London Mosque (ELM) – London Muslim Centre (LMC) for Jumu'ah prayers in July 2004 – the mosque brimmed with over 10,000 worshippers. I was honoured to welcome him and introduce him to East London's vibrant and diverse Muslim community. As we waited in the foyer, I told him that the stone laid beneath us had come from Jerusalem, via Jordan. He paused and gently said, 'Iqbal, I have never touched anything from Jerusalem.' He then bent down, touched the stone with reverence, and placed his hand on his eyes and heart. Members of his Cabinet, witnessing this moment, instinctively followed suit. It was a profound gesture — a statesman's quiet communion with the sacred. My next encounter with Tun Abdullah was on Merdeka Day on August 31, 2007, marking Malaysia's 50th year of independence. As a guest of a programme around the 3rd Khazanah Global Lecture hosted by Khazanah Nasional Berhad (which he chaired), I was honoured to witness and participate in a historical milestone for Malaysia. Armed Forces carrying former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's body to be laid in rest in the Heroes' Mausoleum here at National Mosque. — Picture by Sayuti Zainudin The atmosphere was electric — an inspiring blend of national pride and cosmopolitan inclusivity. It was a reflection of his vision: a confident, modern Malaysia rooted in its heritage but open to the world. That entire celebration bore Tun Abdullah's hallmark — humility, unity, and quiet conviction. I left feeling not only moved but inspired by the leadership emerging from Malaysia under his guidance. The following year, Tun Abdullah invited me for lunch at the Prime Minister's Box during the 2008 Formula 1 Petronas Malaysian Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit. Even in such a dynamic setting, his hospitality reflected deep values — there were prayer arrangements, a quiet meal, and an absence of ostentation. We spoke about fostering Gulf–Malaysia investment ties and the state of the global ummah. Years later, after Tun Abdullah stepped down from office, I was contacted by Tan Sri Azman Hj. Mokhtar to help arrange a visit for Tun Abdullah to the world's largest organic shrimp farm in Al-Lith, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It was scorching hot, yet he insisted on personally shaking hands with every worker. When I suggested he rest, he replied, 'They stand in this heat from morning to evening for their company. I can stand for a little while to honour them on behalf of Malaysia.' That single act — of empathy, humility, and honour — epitomised his soul. He was never one for theatrics, yet every gesture he made spoke volumes. Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi reminded us that leadership is not about domination, but about service. That power is not about spectacle, but about doing what is right — even when it is hard. To me, and to many others privileged to know him or witness his leadership, he embodied the Prophetic virtues: patience, compassion, humility, and justice. He has returned to his Lord, but his light endures. Al-Fatihah. * Iqbal Khan is CEO, Fajr Capital Group; recipient of the 2012 Royal Award for Islamic Finance and Trustee of East London Mosque and London Muslim Centre. ** This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of Malay Mail.
