The Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) is the national philosophy of Brunei Darussalam that upholds the principles and values of Islam based on Al-Quran and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), said Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) Director of Centre of Core Knowledge Dr Haji Noralizam bin Haji Aliakbar.
He made the remark as the co-chairperson in his opening speech at the national seminar on MIB education, held in conjunction with the 40th National Day, at the Balai Khazanah Islam Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah on Saturday.
He added that the philosophy emphasises the concept of Ihsan, which means doing good. “Those possessing the quality of Ihsan are referred to as al-Muhsin or al-Muhsinun,” he said at the seminar organised by the Supreme Council Office.
Deputy Minister (Civil Service Governance) Dato Seri Paduka Awang Mohd Riza bin Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yunos attended as the guest of honour.
Prior to the opening ceremony, the deputy minister said that for the country’s progress and success, “we need to face various challenges that could bring direct or indirect impacts.”
He added that it is crucial to intensify efforts through a more creative and innovative approach to achieve the desired goals.
The deputy minister said all targeted goals will not be attainable without unity, understanding, and cooperation from every level of society and stakeholders.
He added, “The MIB philosophy is vital in enabling the country to develop a healthy society focused on civilisation, identity and noble character.”
The seminar saw a keynote presentation on the theme, ‘Empowering the Understanding of MIB Values and Practices towards Realising Brunei Vision 2035’, from Dato Paduka Dr Haji Abdul Latif bin Haji Ibrahim.
Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary (Civil Service Governance) at the Prime Minister’s Office Ajman bin Haji Meludin was the chief guest in the afternoon session.
Professor Dr Haji Awang Asbol bin Haji Mail from Academy of Brunei Studies, Universiti Brunei Darussalam; Ra’es of KUPU SB Dr Haji Adanan bin Haji Basar; Professor Ampuan Dr Haji Brahim bin Ampuan Haji Tengah; Principal of Brunei History Centre Dr Haji Muhammad Hadi bin Muhammad Melayong; and President of Brunei History Association (PESEBAR) Dr Haji Mohd Rozan bin Dato Paduka Haji Mohd Yunos were on hand to deliver papers.
A forum was also held, joined by Acting Deputy of KUPU SB Ra’es Dr Haji Abang Hadzmin bin Haji Abang Taha; Professor Dr Haji Awang Asbol and Assistant Rector (Research, International and Services) at Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali Dr Arman bin Haji Asmad in the panel, during which they focused on integrating MIB into higher learning institution curriculum. – Rokiah Mahmud
