Uzbekistan's heritage takes centrestage at the first International Forum of Islamic Civilization

The President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, has called for greater investment in education, stronger scientific cooperation, and the promotion of religious tolerance as essential responses to rising global conflict, extremism, and Islamophobia. Mirziyoyev made the remarks at the first International Forum of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan on July 7.

The forum, organised by the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan, reflects Uzbekistan's growing role as a centre of Islamic scholarship and intercultural dialogue while advancing the concept of Islamic enlightenment. Islamic enlightenment was first introduced by President Mirziyoyev during the 72nd Session of the United Nations General Assembly in 2017.

In a message read at the Forum's opening ceremony, President Mirziyoyev noted that despite unprecedented scientific and technological progress, the world is facing growing geopolitical tensions, declining trust between nations, and increasing attempts to deepen divisions between cultures and religions. "In these challenging times, noble ideals, including Islamic values, remain the most important and enduring foundations of peace, social progress, harmony and enlightenment," he said.

The President stressed that Islam has historically encouraged scientific inquiry, education, artistic development, and intellectual discovery, rejecting the notion that religion is incompatible with modern progress. He paid tribute to the enduring contributions of Central Asia's great scholars, including Muhammad al-Khwarizmi, Abu Rayhan al-Biruni, Ibn Sina, and Mirzo Ulugh Beg, whose achievements transformed mathematics, medicine, astronomy, and philosophy and continue to shape global science today.

Delivering greetings on behalf of the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, His Virtue Professor Dr Allahshukur Pashazade, Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims' Board, Chairman of the Qazi Council (Fetwa institution) of the CMB, and Sheikh ul-Islam of Caucasus, described Uzbekistan as "a beacon of Islamic knowledge for centuries" and praised the country's efforts to preserve and promote its rich intellectual heritage.

Themed The Path of Peace, Tolerance and Enlightenment, the forum brought together more than 450 participants from over 50 countries and examined the contribution of Islamic civilisation to peace, tolerance, enlightenment, and intercultural dialogue. It also underscores Uzbekistan's commitment to preserving its intellectual heritage while expanding international cooperation in science, education, and cultural exchange.

In 2017, President Mirziyoyev said that the principles of peace, tolerance, and enlightenment at the heart of Islam are universal values capable of uniting societies rather than dividing them. He called for combating extremism and Islamophobia through enlightenment, science, and culture, laying the foundation for a state policy based on the principle of Enlightenment Against Ignorance.

Over the years, Uzbekistan has established a modern cultural, educational, scientific, and academic infrastructure that supports the comprehensive study, preservation, and promotion of the intellectual heritage of Islamic civilisation. The cornerstone of these efforts is the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan, which brings together research, museum activities, educational initiatives, and international cooperation within a single complex.

"As Forum participants have noted, the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan is becoming a platform for shaping a new international agenda for humanitarian cooperation based on knowledge, enlightenment, mutual respect, and trust. The Forum concluded with agreements to launch numerous joint research initiatives, international expeditions, educational programmes, digital manuscript preservation projects, and other major cultural initiatives aimed at strengthening peace, mutual understanding, and dialogue among civilisations," said Dr Firdavs Abdukhalikov, Director of the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan.

During the event, delegates discussed preserving and studying Islamic manuscripts and cultural heritage, applying digital technologies and AI to historical research, expanding international academic cooperation, and exploring the relevance of Islamic intellectual traditions in addressing today's global challenges.

The Forum also served as a platform for presenting new publications, launching major cultural and scientific initiatives, signing international cooperation agreements, and adopting the Declaration of the First International Forum of Islamic Civilization,, which outlined a shared vision for future collaboration in promoting the universal values of Islamic civilisation.

Among the Forum's flagship events are international conferences dedicated to the scholarly legacy of Imam al-Bukhari, Imam al-Maturidi, and Imam al-Tirmidhi, highlighting the influence of their works on the development of Islamic thought and world civilisation.

An invitation to journey in the Prophet's footsteps

KSA's cultural legacy allows the kingdom to offer travellers some of the richest and most meaningful experiences on earth.

Source: Ala Khotah website. Key details for the trail.

One such experience is launching in November 2025, reflecting the kingdom's deep commitment to the two holy cities, as part of its care for the Two Holy Mosques and the guests of Allah. Ala Khotah, meaning In the Prophet’s Footsteps, brings to life the hijrah (الهجرة) or migration of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his companion Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq.  

Through this initiative, travellers will have the opportunity to experience their journey from Makkah to Madinah themselves. The 470 km trail passes through 59 historical and enrichment stations, 41 historical landmarks and five key event locations. Key experiences  include visits to historical sites, camel riding, cultural workshops, as well as event reenactments using augmented reality. 

For Indonesian travellers, visiting KSA is now more accessible. Holders of a valid UK, US, or Schengen visa, complete with an entry stamp from the issuing country, can apply for an e-visa or visa on arrival. Umrah pilgrims can explore beyond the holy cities as well.

Details

Register your interest at https://alakhutah.com/

Singapore's Office of the Mufti shares advice on managing COVID-19

The Office of the Mufti in Singapore has issued religious guidance on what Muslims in Singapore can do in response to the COVID-19 situation.

The key is that Islam places importance on the community’s interest and wellbeing, which in turn means that Muslims have a collective responsibility to safeguard the public’s health.

Precautions to take include:

- Maintaining good personal hygiene and monitoring one's health regularly. This can include frequent handwashing with soap.

- Avoiding the passing of bacteria and viruses, through practices such as covering the mouth and nose with tissue paper when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close physical contact with others, for example through shaking hands.

- If fever, cough, cold or breathing difficulties are experienced, wear the appropriate facemask and seek medical attention.

- Avoid public crowded places if unwell. The Office of the Mufti cites a hadith narrated by Imam Muslim where the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) forbade a sick individual from leaving his house. "This prohibition is to prevent the virus from spreading to other areas and infecting individuals. We should also follow the advice of healthcare professionals. This includes putting ourselves in quarantine if necessary for the wellbeing of our family and society," the Office of the Mufti said in a statement.

At the same time, Islam provides flexibility to a sick person, the Office of the Mufti said, as per surah al-Fath, verse 17 (48:17): “There is no blame upon the blind, nor any blame upon the lame, nor any blame upon the sick.”

This can be interpreted as being given the flexibility of not attending Friday prayers if unwell, and praying dhuhr prayers instead.

- Misinformation should be avoided, as cited in surah Al-Hujurat, ayat 6 (49:6), the Office of the Mufti added (“O you who believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one with information, investigate, lest you harm people out of ignorance and become regretful of what you have done.”).

"The Muslim community must always ensure the validity of any news. We should never spread any unverified news that may cause a stir and create confusion among members of community," the Office of the Mufti stated.

The organisation also cautioned against forming opinions and judging without care or consideration, such as attributing any unfortunate incident as the result of committing a wrong/sin.

"Allah knows best the reason behind every incident. What has been commanded to us by Allah is to pray and rely upon Him, combined with our efforts in ameliorating the situation," the Office of the Mufti stressed.

In the light of heightened alertness around COVID, the Office of the Mufti later emphasised:

- If you feel unwell, you should see a doctor immediately and refrain from going to the mosque.

- If you go to the mosque, please take additional steps to minimise any risk of infection. The virus may remain on carpet surfaces if used by a congregant who is infected. This occurrence is highly likely if the area has not been properly disinfected and cleansed. As such, we encourage the use of personal clean mat to cover the prostration area. Female congregants are also advised to bring your own personal prayer clothing.

- You should also maintain a high level of hygiene by washing your hands or by using a hand sanitiser. The use of hand sanitisers containing alcohol is permissible, in accordance with the 2008 fatwa issued by the Fatwa Committee, which stated that the alcoholic substance used in medical treatments (including hand sanitisers) is not a prohibited item.

- You may hold your hands close to your chest as a sign of respect in place of shaking hands. This is also in accordance with the religious guidance issued in 2003 during the SARS outbreak.

"It may take some time before the situation returns to normal. In the meantime, we must play our part to help ensure that the situation remains under control and there is no further outbreak of the virus.
In these challenging times, let us remain united in care for one another. Look out for those in need, and extend our help to alleviate their pain. In particular, show care and concern for those who have been affected, especially those who have received a quarantine order," the Office of the Mufti advised.

2020 applications open for ISEAS-MUIS Masters Scholarship

ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute and Muis – Islamic Religious Council of Singapore invite applications for the inaugural ISEAS-MUIS Masters Scholarship.

Established with a grant from Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura (Muis), this scholarship will be available for three years and funds a Masters student for a year. The scholarship seeks to deepen the pool of local scholars with the capacity and training to conduct rigorous academic research in order to build up academic capability and research knowledge into the development of Islam in Southeast Asia and its long-term effects on the Singapore Muslim community.

Candidates may study political science, sociology, anthropology, cultural geography and Islamic studies, but other subjects may be eligible. Successful candidates will serve a one-year bond with ISEAS following the completion of their studies.

Criteria include:

Singapore citizens;
A good honours degree (or professional qualifications of equivalent standing) in a relevant subject;
A consistently good academic record and
Availability to take up courses and/or carry out research on the political, social, cultural, or economic development of Islam in Southeast Asia.

Terms:

• The scholarship is tenable for one year at local or overseas reputable universities
• Covers tuition and other compulsory fees
• There is a monthly maintenance allowance
• Book allowance
• Conference/fieldwork allowance
• Medical insurance
• Return airfare (if applicable)

Candidates who have already obtained university admission for 2020 and meet the above requirements are also eligible to apply.

Details:

Applicants should submit a cover letter, full CV, two letters of reference, educational certificates and transcripts, a research proposal or a statement of purpose in pursuing the MA degree, and a passport-sized photograph.

The deadline is 20 March 2020. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Applications should be sent to:

Head, Administration
ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute
30 Heng Mui Keng Terrace
Singapore 119614
Tel No: +65 6778 0955

Submit an online application

Definitive history of Islam in Malaysia is launched

Islam in Malaysia: An Entwined History by Dr Khairudin Aljunied has been launched. This is the first book to provide an account of Islam in Malaysia according to publisher Oxford University Press.

Source: OUP.

The book investigates how Islam has shaped the social lives, languages, cultures and politics of both Muslims and non-Muslims in Malaysia, and charts the evolution of Malay states and societies from colonial regimes to the pluralised society that exists today.

This book covers the growth and development of Islam in Malaysia from the 11th to the 21st century, and shows how Muslims in Malaysia built upon the legacy of their pre-Islamic past while benefitting from Islamic ideas, values, and networks.

Dr Aljunied is Associate Professor at the National University of Singapore and Senior Fellow at the Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding, Georgetown University. Dr Aljunied has authored and edited several books, including Muslim Cosmopolitanism: Southeast Asian Islam in Comparative Perspective (2017) and Hamka and Islam: Cosmopolitan Reform in the Malay World (2018). His research covers topics such as religious cosmopolitanism, social movements and intellectual history.

Details:

Islam in Malaysia: An Entwined History
October 2019
328 pages, hardback
£64 Buy the book or e-book
ISBN: 9780190925192

New academic publications about Islam coming online

A number of new academic publications are emerging to discuss Islam. Springer has the Islam in Southeast Asia series, and the Islam and Global Studies series.

The Islam in Southeast Asia series, edited by NM Adiong, I Yusuf, L Zubaidah Rahim, M Mohamad and N Hosen, publishes academic and policy research on historical and contemporary Muslim communities, both in the region and in the diaspora, and on all aspects of Islam in Southeast Asia.

Interdisciplinarity and eclectic contributions from scholars and practitioners are encouraged to facilitate a holistic approach towards the study of Islam.

The series particularly welcomes topics on:

- Islam and politics

- Islam and ethnicity

- Islam and modernity

- MENA influences in Southeast Asia

- Pre-modern and contemporary Islamic thought

- Sunni and Shia relations

- Islamic studies and area studies;

- Canonical and periphery Islam; and

- Relations between Muslims and non-Muslims across the region.

The series will include original monographs, Palgrave Pivots*, edited volumes/ collections, and handbooks.

The Islam and Global Studies series provides a platform for academic exchanges based on multidisciplinary sociopolitical theory that studies the human condition and human interaction from a global perspective. It publishes monographs and edited volumes that are multidisciplinary and theoretically-grounded and that address, in particular, non-state actors, Islamic polity, social and international justice, democracy, geopolitics and global diplomacy.

Cross-national, cross-cultural, minority and identity studies compose the building block of this series. Edited by Deina Abdelkader, Adiong, and Raffaele Mauriello, studies in this series:

 
- Provide comprehensive insights of the intellectual developments that have defined Islam and Muslim societies both in history and in the contemporary world;

- Delineate connections of pre-colonial Muslim experiences to their responses, adaptations and transformations toward modernity;

- Evaluate old paradigms and emerging trends that affect Muslims’ experiences in terms of political state system, democracy, secularisation, gender, radicalism, media portrayals, etc.;

- Show empirical cases of intra-Muslim and Muslim–non-Muslim relations.

Islam and International Relations is another new series. A partnership between Co-IRIS and Gerlach Press, the series editors are Adiong, Mauriello, and Abdelkader.

The series addresses the role of Islam in the study and practice of the ‘international’, in terms of both conventional relations among modern states and a broader view on interactions among humans and their societies that go beyond their locality. It aims to provide a platform for advancing research on Islam and the ‘international’ with the aim to develop and sustain a body of knowledge that addresses the theories and practices of the Islamic civilisation and of Muslim societies as regards international affairs, and hence enriches and diversifies the disciplines of international relations and geopolitics with contributions from Islamic history and thought.
 

Book proposals are welcomed in areas such as:

• Islamic theories of international relations
• Islam in international relations theories
• Islamic studies and international studies
• Islamic studies and area studies
• Islamic approaches to world politics
• Islam and foreign policy
• Islam and diplomacy
• Islam and geopolitics
• Islam and security studies
• Islam and post-colonial international relations
• Islam and global development studies
• Islam and international law
• Islam and international political economy
• Islam and international political sociology
• Islam and human rights
• Islam and international organisations

Source: Brill website. IJIA cover.

Co-IRIS and the three editors are also involved in The International Journal of Islam in Asia (IJIA) published by Brill. This is a double-blind peer-reviewed journal that publishes articles from all disciplines as well as single-country and comparative perspectives that concern Islam in Asia. 

 

IJIA offers a platform for scholars to engage in academic discussions about historical, contemporary, and critical studies of Islam and Muslim communities in Asia and the Asian Muslim diaspora. These include, but are not limited to, MENA-Asia relations, Islamic thought and intellectual history, intra-Muslim relations, Sufism, Islam and ethnicity, Islam and modernity, Islam and politics, Islam and the State, Islam and geopolitics, and relations between Muslims and non-Muslims across Asia.
The first issue will be published in Spring 2020.

Details:

Email book proposals for Islam in Southeast Asia to Vishal Daryanomel 

Email book proposals for Islam and International Relations to info@coiris.org and include copies to Abdelkader, Adiong and Mauriello. Read proposal guidelines 
 

Send proposals for submissions to IJIA to editors-in-chief Adiong, Abdelkader and Mauriello. Proposals for special theme issues are also welcome.

The original Palgrave Pivot from publisher Palgrave enables authors to publish at lengths of between 25,000 and 50,000 words - longer than a journal article, but shorter than a monograph.

Islam in International Relations to be launched mid-January

Source: Co-IRIS website.
Cover for Islam in International
Relations.

Islam in International Relations: Politics and Paradigms, is to be launched on 15 January 2019. The second Co-IRIS-edited volume is published under the Routledge’s Worlding beyond the West series.

Islam in International Relations: Politics and Paradigms, edited by Dr Nassef Manabilang Adiong, Dr Raffaele Mauriello, and Dr Deina Abdelkader, analyses the interaction between Islam and international relations (IR).

The volume opens with the discussion of the international thought of a major Muslim leader, followed by a chapter that addresses the ethical practice of IR, from traditional pacifism to modern Arab political philosophy. It then argues that the ethnocentric approach of Western academia has hindered readers' understanding of world affairs. The ISIS phenomenon is also addressed, as well as Islamic geopolitics.

Co-IRIS aims to explore Islamic contributions to the field of international relations. The name stands for International Relations and Islamic Studies Research Cohort.

Minister Masagos looks back on 2018

Masagos Zulkifli, Singapore Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs, has listed milestones for the Malay/Muslim community in 2018.

In a post on his Facebook page, he said, "We celebrated key achievements such as Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) golden jubilee, the steady educational progress of our children led by MENDAKI Singapore, and a stronger People's Association Malay Activity Executive Committees Council (MESRA).

"Since I announced the M³ framework in May, I know many parties have been working very hard to galvanise resources and shape initiatives to uplift our community both individually or as part of M³ initiatives."

The framework refers to a partnership between MUIS, self-help group Mendaki and MESRA to better the lives of the Malay/Muslim community and keep divisive teachings at bay. "M³ will need time to develop but I am confident that our collective wisdom and sincere effort to strengthen our community, especially vulnerable families, will bear fruit, in sha Allah," he said.

Islam in the Philippines series calls for proposals

DLSU Publishing House, publisher of the Islam in the Philippines series, is calling for proposals for new books.

The series focuses on long and short research monographs, policy-oriented books, handbooks, and collections of multidisciplinary studies and analyses on historical and contemporary Islam and Muslims in the Philippines. The series is in collaboration with Palgrave Macmillan on a project by project basis.

There are four chief editors:

• Dr Nassef Manabilang Adiong, Assistant Professor at the Institute of Islamic Studies, the University of the Philippines Diliman

• Dr Jeffrey Ayala Milligan, Professor of Philosophy of Education and Sociocultural & International Development Education Studies, and Director of the Center for International Studies in Educational Research and Development for the Learning Systems Institute at Florida State University, US

• Mansoor L. Limba, Associate Professor of political science and international and Islamic studies at Ateneo de Davao University, Philippines, and

• Isaac Donoso, at Universidad de Alicante, Spain

Details:

Email book proposals to Dr Nassef at contact at nassef.info.

All book proposals should include the following:

– The proposed title of the book.

– A description of the book (between 400 and 700 words) that explains its rationale, scope, significance to the series, its relations to competing works, and notable contribution to existing scholarship.

– A table of contents with chapter summaries.

– Estimated word length for the whole book, its proposed completion date, and description of its target readership.

– Optional: one or two sample chapters.

– Complete curriculum vitae of the author(s).

NUS releases catalogue for first half of 2019

NUS Press has released its catalogue for January to June 2019.

Source: NUS Press eDM. Cover for
Islam, Humanity and Indonesian
Identity.

One of the highlighted books is Islam, Humanity and Indonesian Identity, which Mark Woodward of Arizona State University's  Center for the Study of Religion and Conflict says is "...a stunning, and yet hopeful, critique of Indonesian political culture and global capitalism...This is not just a book about religion and politics in Indonesia. It is a major contribution to political philosophy."

In the book Ahmad Syafii Maarif argues for an understanding that is both faithful to Islam's essential teachings and open to constantly changing social and cultural contexts. 

He addresses contemporary issues such as democracy, human rights, religious freedom, the status of women, and the future of Islam. 

Details:

View the catalogue on ISSUU or download the soft copy.

Islam, Humanity and Indonesian Identity
Available 30 January, 2019
US$25

Journalism and Islam in Malaysia and Indonesia explored

Source: NUS Press. Cover for Mediating
Islam.

Janet Steele, Associate Professor of media and public affairs and international affairs at George Washington University, compares and contrasts Islamic aspects of journalism in Mediating Islam: Cosmopolitan Journalisms in Muslim Southeast Asia.

Day-to-day journalism as practiced by Muslim professionals at five news organisations in Malaysia and Indonesia are explored through an Islamic lens:

At Sabili, established as an underground publication, journalists are hired for their ability at da'wah (دعوة), or spreading of Islam. 

At Tempo, a news magazine banned during the Suharto regime, the journalists do not talk much about shari'ah law, but many are pious and see their work as a manifestation of worship. The Islam they practice is often viewed as progressive or liberal. 

At Harakah reporters support an Islamic political party, while at Republika they practice a "journalism of the Prophet". Secular news organisations, too, such as Malaysiakini, employ Muslim journalists. 

Details:

Read a sample chapter

Buy Mediating Islam: Cosmopolitan Journalisms in Muslim Southeast Asia (184 pages)
Paperback, S$28
ISBN: 978-981-4722-88-9

New books on Islam in Southeast Asia

ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute has published a number of books about Islam in Southeast Asia this year.

Islam in Southeast Asia: Negotiating Modernity, edited by Norshahril Saat, Fellow, ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute, Singapore, covers recent trends affecting Islam in the Malay world.

"Islam in the Malay world of Southeast Asia or Islam Nusantara, as it has come to be known, had for a long time been seen as representing the more spiritual and Sufi dimension of Islam, thereby striking a balance between the exoteric and the esoteric. This image of 'the smiling face of Islam' has been disturbed during the last decades with increasing calls for the implementation of shari’ah, conceived of in a narrow manner, intolerant discourse against non-Muslim communities, and hate speech against minority Muslims such as the Shi’ites. There has also been what some have referred to as the Salafisation* of Sunni Muslims in the region. 

"The chapters of this volume are written by scholars and activists from the region who are very perceptive of such trends in Malay world Islam and promise to improve our understanding of developments that are sometimes difficult to grapple with," said Professor Syed Farid Alatas, Department of Sociology, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, National University of Singapore (NUS). Saat is also Adjunct Lecturer with the Department of Malay Studies, NUS. 

Source: ISEAS. Cover, Islam in Southeast
Asia.

"Perceptions of Southeast Asian Islam are increasingly contested. On the one hand, much of the international community continues to laud the region’s Muslims as among the most 'moderate' and 'inclusive' in the world.

"On the other hand, stories about creeping Wahhabism and escalating jihadist threats abound in media reporting, often accompanied by commentary that the nature of Southeast Asian Islam is becoming more radical, less tolerant and more 'Arabised'.

"In this volume, a range of Muslim scholars and activists from Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore reflect upon developments in their communities and seek to bring greater nuance to our understanding of these complex religio-cultural and political changes.

"This book opens up authentic regional perspectives on Islam’s contemporary role," said Associate Professor Greg Fealy, Department of Political and Social Change, Australian National University.

Add caption

The State, Ulama and Islam in Malaysia and Indonesia by Saat, was also launched recently. Published by the Amsterdam University Press/ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute, the book examines the extent to which official ulamas in contemporary Indonesia and Malaysia capitalised on their co-optation to ‘capture’ the states. An ulama is a group of Muslim scholars who are recognised for their specialised knowledge of Islamic sacred law and theology.

In response to the Islamic resurgence of the 1970s and beyond, the Suharto (1966–1998) and Mahathir (1981–2003) governments undertook massive Islamisation programmes in Indonesia and Malaysia respectively. This included co-opting influential religious scholars into state-sponsored institutions.

In 1975, Suharto formed the Majelis Ulama Indonesia (MUI); while in the 1980s, Mahathir upgraded the Malaysian National Fatwa Council (JKFMKI), JAKIM (Department of Islamic Development Malaysia) and IKIM (Malaysian Institute for Islamic Understanding). The ‘official’ ulamas, defined by the book as the religious scholars who participated in these institutions, were expected to support the states’ ideologies in exchange for reward and recognition. The author discusses societal actors’ ability to influence laws, policies, and the distribution of resources in their favour.

Hamka and Islam: Cosmopolitan Reform in the Malay World by Khairudin Aljunied, Associate Professor in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, NUS, is published by the Cornell Southeast Asia Program/ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute. 

Hamka or author Haji Abdul Malik bin Abdul Karim Amrullah is one of the most influential of Muslim reformers who have been campaigning for a total transformation of the ways in which Islam is imagined in the Malay world. 

In Hamka and Islam, Aljunied employs the term “cosmopolitan reform” to describe Hamka’s attempt to harmonise the many streams of Islamic and Western thought while posing solutions to the various challenges facing Muslims. Among the major themes that Aljunied explores are reason and revelation, moderation and extremism, social justice, the state of women in society, and Sufism in the modern age, as well as the importance of history in reforming the minds of modern Muslims. 

Pancasila and the Challenge of Political Islam: Past and Present compares and contrasts Islamism against Pancasila, or cultural pluralism. Islam is an important symbol in post-Suharto Indonesia, and has been used as an effective tool to undermine political rivals. Political figures or parties feel they cannot afford to be seen to be against the religion or be considered unfriendly to it.

Leo Suryadinata, who is Visiting Senior Fellow at ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute, argues that the future of Pancasila depends on whether the Indonesian government and other pluralist forces are able to control the Islamists and provide political stability and economic development in the country.

Details:
Buy Hamka and Islam: Cosmopolitan Reform in the Malay World (139 pages)
Softcover, ISBN: 978-981-4818-84-1, S$29.90
The ISEAS edition is for distribution in Southeast Asia.

Buy Islam in Southeast Asia: Negotiating Modernity (252 pages)
Softcover, ISBN: 978-981-4786-99-7, S$35.90
Chapters of the book are available as PDF downloads from S$7.

Buy Pancasila and the Challenge of Political Islam: Past and Present (20 pages)
Softcover, ISBN: 978-981-4818-67-4, S$9

Buy The State, Ulama and Islam in Malaysia and Indonesia (254 pages)
Softcover, ISBN: 978-981-4818-83-4, S$35.90
The ISEAS edition is for distribution in Southeast Asia.

*Salafists advocate a return to the traditions of the first three generations of Muslims. There is a range of beliefs and practices among Salafists. Some are non-political, some are political, and a minority believe in violence and terrorism as a means to an end.

NUS Press publishes a focus on Mangkunagara I of Java

Source: NUS Press. Book cover for
Soul Catcher.

NUS Press has released Soul Catcher: Java’s Fiery Prince Mangkunagara I, 1726-95 by MC Ricklefs. Ricklefs is Professor Emeritus of the Australian National University and a Fellow of the Australian Academy of the Humanities, as well as a historian of Indonesia, specialising in the history of the Javanese from the coming of Islam to the present day.

Mangkunagara I (1726-1795) was one of the most flamboyant figures of 18th-century Java in Indonesia. A rebel from 1740 to 1757 and one of the foremost military commanders of his age, he won the loyalty of many followers.

He was also a devout Muslim of the Mystic Synthesis style and Javanese culture supporter. The 'halal bihalal' tradition of asking others for forgiveness during Eid in Indonesia is attributed to him.

His enemies—the Surakarta court, his uncle the rebel and later Sultan Mangkubumi of Yogyakarta and the Dutch East India Company (VOC)—were unable to subdue him, even when united against him.

In 1757 he settled as a semi-independent prince in Surakarta, pursuing his objective of as much independence as possible by means other than war.

Professor Ricklefs refers to sources in Dutch and Javanese—among them Mangkunagara I’s autobiographical account of his years at war, the earliest autobiography in Javanese so far known—to bring him to life. In doing so, he sheds much light on Java’s civil war of the mid-18th century, Islam and culture in Java.

"The Prince Sambĕr Nyawa is a very familiar name among Indonesians. However, our knowledge on his life and role as member of the Mataram royal family is very limited. The story of his character circulated is more of myths than a historical figure. This book convincingly provides readers a very rich biography of this flamboyant man based on first hand Javanese primary sources, including Sĕrat Babad Pakunĕgaran, and the VOC archives," said Oman Fathurahman,Professor of Philology at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, Syarif Hidayatullah State Islamic University of Jakarta, Indonesia.

"MC Ricklefs’ Soul Catcher is a rich and deeply textured portrait of Mangkunagara I (1726–95), a man who played a crucial role in in the history of 18th-century Java. Rickefs’ magisterial biography traces this prince’s life story, with an especially detailed history of the 15-year long military campaign he waged against the forces of the Dutch along with those of his various royal Javanese rivals.

"Ricklefs’ captivating narrative vividly displays his unparalled command and careful use of primary sources from both the Dutch colonial and the royal Javanese archives," added Nancy Florida, Professor of Javanese and Islamic Studies, University of Michigan.


This title is also part of the Asian Studies Association of Australia series.

Details:

Buy the book
Paperback, 432 pages
S$48

KFCRIS work to be available on the Kindle

The King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies (KFCRIS) has co-signed an agreement with Amazon to post its books and research on the Amazon Kindle e-reader platform, the Saudi Press Agency has reported.

The Kindle application is available on mobile devices such as iPad, iPhone, Android devices.

KFCRIS Secretary General Dr Saud Al-Sarhan said this agreement reflects KFCRIS' keenness to spread the cultural, literary and scientific heritage of Islam and the Arab world.

KFCRIS was established to continue the mission of the late King Faisal bin Abdulaziz (1906-1975) in transmitting knowledge between KSA and the rest of the world. The centre serves as a platform for research bringing together researchers and institutions to preserve, publish, and produce scholastic work, particularly about the contributions and roles of Muslim societies in the humanities, the social sciences, literature, the and arts – historically, as well as today.

Religion should not drive schisms through society: Al-Tayyeb

"People are either your brothers in religion or your equals in humanity," said the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar HE Dr Ahmed Al-Tayyeb. Al-Azhar University in Egypt is a well-respected centre for Islamic learning that believes in presenting correct Islamic thought based on moderation.

In The Muis Lecture 2018, themed The Unifying Force of Religion, held in May, Dr Al-Tayyeb said Muslims should reach out to everyone, no matter what their beliefs are.

According to the Grand Imam, the Quran establishes that many divine messages have been delivered, for a single religion with Islam as "the last ring in the chain of a series of divine messages". With this as the context, Dr Al-Tayyeb noted that:

- Diversity in religions, races and languages is a divine natural law, as quoted in the Quran 11: 118-119.

Source: Muis Lecture 2018 transcript. Dr Al-
Tayyeb.

- Freedom of belief follows from this diversity. "It is not plausible in the light of the divine wisdom that God informs us that He has created his servants of different religions and at the same time orders us to make them adopt one religion by revoking their freedom of belief," he said, citing various parts of the Quran including a phrase 2:256 regarding religion and compulsion.

- Given that freedom of belief and differences among humanity are the natural order of things, Muslims should not be "eliminating the other who is different" nor "imposing a unilateral vision or culture on others".

He also discussed the conditions of war, how Muslims should treat Christians and Jews, collectively known as the "People of the Book", as well as people who are not "of the Book", in addition to how Muslims may interpret religious teachings in modern times.

Explore:

Read the transcript (translated into English) for The Muis Lecture 2018, which was organised by Muis Academy. A question-and-answer session was also transcribed. (PDF)

Watch the video excerpt

Hashtags: #ResilientMuslims, #SpreadMercy, #MuisLecture

Muis calls for vigilance against self-radicalisation in Singapore

The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis) has reminded the community to seek religious instruction and guidance from local religious teachers, who are registered under the Asatizah Recognition Scheme (ARS), and are guided by the Code of Ethics of the ARS. 

The organisation further urged the community to continue playing its part to refer family members and friends who need guidance after the arrest of Mohamed Faishal bin Mohd Razali, a self-radicalised Singaporean, who was recently detained under Singapore's Internal Security Act.

"While the Singapore Muslim community rejects the ideology of exclusivism and extremism, we need families, friends and the wider community to remain vigilant and seek help from relevant authorities and agencies when in doubt," Muis said in a statement.

Muis Senior Director, Religious Policy and Development, Dr Nazirudin Mohd Nasir, said: “Exclusivist and extremist teachings, including propaganda videos by known terror groups that attempt to extol the virtues of violence by conflating it with jihad, are available online. That is why we must continue to protect our community by building in them religious and spiritual resilience through the correct and contextual appreciation of Islam and its teachings. This is the role that our accredited asatizah (religious teachers) play in guiding Muslims in their socioreligious life so that each Muslim embraces the compassionate and peaceful spirit of Islam and is well-equipped to immediately reject any form of extremist ideology.

“Families and friends must be vigilant, show support and help connect their loved ones to avenues where questions about religion and Islam will be answered by credible and trained asatizah.”

The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis) is working through the Asatizah Youth Network (AYN) to combat extremist ideologies that propagate online. As announced in the 2018 Committee of Supply (COS) debate earlier this year, Muis will grow AYN membership over the next five years, conduct drop-in sessions for youths at Masjid Al-Falah and continue training asatizah in digital media engagements and youth counselling.

A member of the AYN, Executive Imam and Head of Islamic Learning at Masjid Muhajirin, Ustaz Mohammad Khalid Rafi, said: “Religion has been exploited to justify violence and destruction with no regard to the sanctity of life. Islam calls for the pursuit of peace and that should be our priority as Muslims. Let us not be misguided by disinformation promoted by such propaganda of hate. 

"We believe in an Islam that promotes peace and harmony based on the tradition of love and respect. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) had always chosen peace over war and conflict. Therefore, we should cherish our peaceful co-existence in multireligious Singapore, and be among those who seek peace and extend friendship to others.”

Ustaz Khalid also shared that the drop-in consultation session provides a ‘safe space’ for anyone to consult an AYN asatizah on issues related to questionable concepts and doctrines. Ustaz Khalid is of the view that such sessions are crucial to discourage individuals from ideologies that may lead to radicalisation.

Details: 

Drop-in sessions are available at Masjid Al-Falah, where individuals can ask about exclusivism and armed conflict. Trained asatizah offer counselling and will enhance their online presence to offer support and guidance to Singapore youth on social media. Book consultation sessions at Masjid Al-Falah at +65 6235 3172.

The Religious Rehabilitation Group (RRG) is also ready to help and can be contacted at 1800-7747747 as well as via the RRG Mobile App. 

The community can also approach Muis at +65 6359 1199.

First issue of Journal of the Institute for Islamic Research can be ordered on Amazon Prime

Source: Yaqeen Institute. The Journal of the Institute for
Islamic Research is now available for order on Amazon
Prime.

Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research has announced that the first-ever Journal of the Institute for Islamic Research is now available on Amazon Prime. The academic-grade publication offers peer-reviewed research articles that deal with the contemporary issues of Islam today.

The publishers aim to:

• Provide a physical, accessible resource for the general public
• Create an opportunity for researchers and academics to connect with Muslims of all occupations and backgrounds
• Tackle the most controversial questions posed to Muslims with evidence
• Maintain academic integrity and relevancy in educating the public, and
• Inspire readers to contribute positively to society.

The Journal of the Institute for Islamic Research is a part of the initiative by Yaqeen Institute to reclaim the narrative on Islam and to make high-quality, academic-grade, peer-reviewed research publications and articles the source of authentic information about Islam and the issues Muslims face today.

Details:

The inaugural issue of this journal includes the following articles:
Stoning and Handcutting—Understanding the Hudud and the Shari’ah in Islam by Dr Jonathan Brown
The Myth of an Antisemitic Genocide in Muslim Scripture by Dr Nazir Khan
Playing the Taqiyya Card: Evading Intelligent Debate by Calling all Muslims Liars by Sheikh Omar Suleiman
Islam is not the Cause of Honor Killings. It’s part of the Solution by Dr Brown
Modern Pathways to Doubt in Islam by Youssef Chouhoud
Clinicians, Imams, and the Whisperings of Satan by Najwa Awad
How the Prophet (s) Rose above Enmity and Insult by Sheikh Mohammad Elshinawy and Sheikh Omar
The Structure of Scientific Productivity in Islamic Civilization: Orientalists’ Fables by Asadullah Ali
Islam and the Secular Age: Between Certainty and Uncertainty by Khalil Abdurrashid
Overcoming Pessimism with Faith by Roohi Tahir

Order a copy

New workshops on Al-Ghazali's books start February

Islamic education and outreach organisation SimplyIslam.sg has organised a sequel to its September 2017 workshops on The Life & Thoughts of Imam Al-Ghazzali (الغزالي) in September 2017. Abū Ḥāmid Muḥammad ibn Muḥammad Al-Ghazali is an influential Muslim scholar who lived from 1058 to 1111. 

The school has a new 40-week course, Journey with Imam Al-Ghazzali, that will go more in-depth into several of Imam Al-Ghazali's books. The course aims to uncover Al-Ghazali’s advice and spiritual practices to make daily routines more meaningful and purposeful. Books that will be covered include:

– Munqidh min al-Dalalah (المنقذ من الضلال)
– Book of Intentions
– Secrets of Outer Worship
– Remembering Death
– Book of Tawbah (كتاب التوبة)

– other books will also be discussed.

Details:

Classes are weekly, on Wednesday evenings, and begin 7 February. Register 

Explore:

Browse the virtual library of Ghazali works

Read discussions of Ghazali's philosophy

Singapore's Office of the Mufti releases new video

Singapore's Office of the Mufti has added a video about darul Islam (abode of Islam) and darul harb (abode of war) to its series of short YouTube videos focused on what it means to be a Muslim in the modern world.

In the latest video in the Muslims in the Contemporary World series, Professor Ebrahim Moosa, Professor of Islamic Studies in Notre Dame's Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies, Department of History, and Keough School of Global Affairs, talks about how to interpret these concepts in modern times.

Earlier videos include a video where American Islamic scholar and President, Zaytuna College Sheikh Hamza Yusuf discussed if Muslims should honour other cultures, as well as another video about Muslims and politics.

Explore:

View the Youtube channel of the Office of the Mufti

Video discusses role of a Muslim in a modern democracy

Singapore's Office of the Mufti has added to its series of short YouTube videos focused on what it means to be a Muslim in the modern world.

The series, Muslims in the Contemporary World, features insights from local, regional and international scholars on the understanding and practice of Islam.

The first video featured American Islamic scholar and President, Zaytuna College Sheikh Hamza Yusuf discussing if Muslims should honour other cultures.

Sheikh Hamza also discusses the role of a Muslim in a modern democracy in another video, where he recommends that Muslims who have access to the political process should participate in it.

Explore:

View the Youtube channel of the Office of the Mufti