The Islamic Da’wah Centre and Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) marked a significant milestone by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Wednesday at the Islamic Da’wah Centre’s Conference Hall.
The ceremony was witnessed by Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs Awang Haji Mohammad Rosli bin Haji Ibrahim and UNISSA Rector Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Norarfan bin Haji Zainal. Representing the Islamic Da’wah Centre was its Director, Awang Haji Abd Rajid bin Haji Mohd Salleh, while UNISSA was represented by Dean of the Usuluddin Faculty, Professor Dato’ Dr Mohd Fakhrudin bin Abdul Mukti.
The MoU aims to foster collaboration between the two institutions to enhance organisational services, strengthen human resources, and uphold the titah of His Majesty The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam. His Majesty, during the Islamic Da’wah Centre’s official opening in 1985, emphasised the importance of making Islam the cornerstone of Brunei’s identity and establishing the Centre as a leading institution for Islamic propagation.
To achieve this vision, the MoU outlines initiatives to generate and share knowledge in areas such as Al-Quran, As-Sunnah, Aqidah, and Da’wah. It also seeks to explore best practices and foster relationships that drive excellence in both academic and institutional domains.
In his speech, Director of the Islamic Da’wah Centre, Awang Haji Abd Rajid, stated, “The MoU signing is a significant initiative that establishes a framework for cooperation with UNISSA, particularly in academic expertise, studies, research, translation, and publishing.” He added that UNISSA’s expertise would contribute greatly to disseminating religious teachings and strengthening the understanding of Islam among Muslims.
The collaboration will include consultations, research, and initiatives to address contemporary issues, particularly those that threaten the unity and well-being of Muslims. Programs such as workshops, seminars, and training will also be conducted to enhance skills and knowledge.
The partnership is expected to empower human capital development, promote quality research and publication, and strengthen community unity. The joint efforts aim to address teachings that contradict Aqidah Ahli Sunnah Wal-Jamaah, ensuring the preservation of Islamic principles and the unity of the Muslim community. – Fadhil Yunus
