The Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam Advocating Life-Long Learning for an Aspiring Future (BIBD ALAF) Convention held yesterday saw 12 students from the BIBD ALAF programme delve into the topic of Maqasid Syariah.
The annual convention, held in the capital, provides a platform for students to explore innovative ideas that can contribute to societal change in the future.
“Participating in this convention has had a profound impact on both my knowledge and skills. I have gained increased confidence in my public speaking abilities, which I believe will be invaluable as I navigate my academic journey,” said Nurul Najihah binti Radat from Sengkurong Sixth Form Centre, who was awarded ‘Best Speaker’ of the BIBD ALAF Convention 2024.
“The challenge of preparing my speech under a tight deadline pushed me to my limits, proving that I can achieve more than I thought possible. I am grateful to BIBD and BIBD ALAF for providing me with this opportunity to grow and develop. This experience has been truly transformative,” she said.
As the first runner-up of the ‘Best Speaker Award’, Izzuddyn bin Zul Aiani from Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College, said he was initially unfamiliar with the complexities of Maqasid Syariah.
“However, through research and discussions, my understanding of this profound concept has significantly deepened. I am confident that this newfound knowledge will serve as a valuable asset in my future endeavours,” he added.
Siti Nurnazirah Hidayah binti Mohammad Yahya from Meragang Sixth Form Centre, the second runner-up of the ‘Best Speaker Award’, said her participation at the convention helped her explore the deeper meaning and purpose of Maqasid Syariah and the Islamic law.
“The convention has also encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and taught me how to speak comfortably and efficiently in public,” she said.
Senior government officials and personnel from the Ministry of Education (MoE) and Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) as well as management and representatives from BIBD were present. Maqasid Syariah, or the objectives of Islamic law, is a cornerstone of Islamic jurisprudence that seeks to promote the greater good, encompasses five essential principles: preserving religion, life, intellect, lineage and property.
This year’s convention explored how these objectives can be applied in contemporary society, particularly in the context of youth empowerment and social responsibility.
By studying these principles, students can develop a holistic worldview that prioritises justice, compassion, and the well-being of humanity.
Understanding these principles can also guide ethical decision-making, promote social harmony, and inspire sustainable development.
The convention is part of the extra-curricular activities organised by the BIBD ALAF programme for its students to become more innovative and creative in their contribution to lead change. These activities aim to better prepare Brunei’s youth to be part a competitive workforce and also leaders in the future.
The BIBD ALAF programme, which currently supports 350 students, is designed to nurture future leaders by providing opportunities for academic excellence, character development, and community engagement.
The programme is a manifestation of BIBD’s belief in the value of life-long learning, which meets the objective of Brunei Vision 2035 – to develop a nation widely recognised for the accomplishments of its well-educated and highly skilled people.
BIBD ALAF programme is in alignment with the BIBD Sustainability Framework which supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), specifically SDG-4, which is to ensure high quality education for all.
This programme also shows BIBD’s commitment as a ‘Partner in Progress’, taking a whole-of-nation approach to capacity-building by partnering with the MoRA and the MoE, along with support from local corporates and members of the public – which also aligns with SDG-17 – partnership for the goals.
