Professor Dato' Dr. Omar Osman
Vice-Chancellor
Universiti Sains Malaysia

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Ramadhan is likened to a 'madrasah', the best educational institution from Allah SWT. The ‘degree’ that we receive during our ‘graduation’ today is based on how well we have performed throughout.

First class degrees would definitely be awarded to those who have undergone the lessons full of piety and have been accorded forgiveness from Allah Almighty. The best would surely be those whom have 'mastered' the knowledge and great self-discipline, and to sustain it for the next 11 months.

The best are also the ones who could set an example or become a role model as a person of good faith and having good conduct with God, having good relations among men and having good understanding in their interactions with nature and all of God's creatures.

With regard to Allah Almighty, Ramadan teaches us about subservience and with Allah SWT being the pinnacle of subservience and to seek solace as well as in attaining the ultimate finality by being accorded rewards and a place in heaven.

With regard to human relations, Ramadan nurtures the soul to share feelings of love without discrimination, to be the ultimate leader who would exhibit excellence through brotherhood, appreciating diversity and to always give a hand as well as to have mindful interactions, all in the name of Allah SWT.

The Al-Quran was sent to mankind as a source of knowledge and an item of reference, reflecting the greatness of knowledge through the teachings as dictated by Allah SWT. Even the messengers and prophets as well as the traditions served as guidelines, to practice excellence in leadership as dictated by God Almighty.

With regard to nature, Ramadan teaches us to utilise the limited resources, to avoid wastefulness and to be appreciative, to always be thankful and to explore nature for the benefit of society and future generations.

Ramadan teaches us to be reflective of ourselves, to devote ourselves to worship day and night while we earn a living, to grow in strength, in the science of self and social wellness as well as in many other areas with the highest perfection.

The ‘degree’ to be received from this month-long holistic guidance would be for the sustainability and well-being of the future.

Celebrate the coming of Syawal with a sense of gratefulness and moderation. All the training and acts of discipline undergone would be impactful if we would continue to practice those knowledge and teachings that were imparted to us. Do uphold those teachings as we make our journey home to celebrate this victory and success.

I wish everyone a blessed Eid Mubarak, Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Fitri, and congratulations for excelling through the madrasah of Ramadan. Do continue with the teachings for the excellence of the institution and for all of us now and in the hereafter. Maaf Zahir Batin.

Allahuakbar
Allahuakbar
Allahuakbar Walillahilham