KUALA LUMPUR, June 13, 2026 — Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today officiated the opening of the 4th Southeast Asia Scholars Conference 2026 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC).
The two-day event, co-organised by the Muslim World League (MWL) and the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), has drawn approximately 600 Islamic scholars, muftis, academics, researchers, and intellectuals from across ASEAN countries.
In his keynote address, Ahmad Zahid — who also serves as Minister of Rural and Regional Development and UMNO President — emphasised that today’s challenges extend far beyond economics and geopolitics. He highlighted a growing “crisis of values, etiquette, and wisdom” in society.
“Technological progress, including AI, data, and innovation, must be guided by ethics and values,” he said. “Maqasid Syariah must remain the compass directing development, progress, and societal well-being.”
Ahmad Zahid called on scholars to champion “Intellectual Diplomacy” — an agenda that bridges academic theory with practical governance and policy solutions for the ummah. He envisioned Southeast Asia offering a moderate, progressive model of Islam that embraces advancement while safeguarding human values and identity.
He also stressed the importance of regional scholarly cooperation, joint research, and unified responses to threats such as digital extremism and misinformation. Humanitarian issues, including the situation in Palestine, were highlighted as key advocacy areas.
The conference includes a recognition ceremony for winners of a Hadith Memorization Competition, underscoring the balance between traditional Islamic scholarship and contemporary engagement.
Ahmad Zahid expressed appreciation to the Muslim World League and JAKIM for their ongoing commitment to the conference series and voiced hope that the discussions would strengthen ummah unity, elevate the role of knowledge in societal development, and deliver long-term benefits to the region.
The event is part of broader efforts to position Southeast Asia as a hub for moderate Islamic scholarship and ethical technological advancement.
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