USM PENANG, 27 August 2024 - Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), through its Centre for Islamic Development Management Studies (ISDEV), further solidified its leadership in Islamic-based academic research by hosting the 18th ISDEV International Graduate Wholistic Conference (INGRAW 2024), co-hosted by the Institute of Postgraduate Studies (IPS) USM and Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM).

The two-day event, which commenced today, outshine as a beacon of intellectual discourse and collaboration for postgraduate students across the globe who are delving into Islamic-based research.

In her officiating speech, USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Professor Dr. Habibah A. Wahab asserted the university's dedication to fostering an environment where intellectual minds can converge to share knowledge and push the boundaries of Islamic development research.

She highlighted the critical role of ISDEV as a Centre of Excellence (CoE) in supporting postgraduate students throughout their academic journey.

Habibah stated, "This conference is more than just an academic gathering; it is a testament to USM's ongoing efforts to provide platforms where knowledge is shared, ideas are exchanged, and collaborations are forged."

"The future is bright, and with the quality of postgraduates we have, we can achieve even greater heights.”

"INGRAW 2024 brings together a wide array of disciplines, including Islamic-Based Development, Management of Islamic Assets, Islamic Political Economy, and Islamic Research Methodology,” she remarked.

"These themes are not only relevant but also critical areas of study that contribute to the broader understanding of Islamic development in today's world."

With 73 participants and 40 presenters from both Malaysia and Indonesia, INGRAW 2024 represents a significant platform for postgraduate students, offering them the opportunity to present their research, engage in discussions on current and future trends, and network with scholars and peers in the field.

The event also marks a significant milestone as it transitions from its former identity as the ISDEV International Graduate Workshop to a full-fledged conference, reflecting its growing importance in the academic community.

With its robust lineup of sessions, keynote addresses, and interactive discussions, INGRAW 2024 is set to be a landmark event in the academic calendar, further cementing USM and ISDEV's roles as crucial players in the advancement of Islamic development studies.

The conference was made possible with the support of valuable collaborators and sponsors, including Yayasan Dakwah Islamiah Malaysia (YADIM) and Jabatan Wakaf, Zakat & Haji, and Merchant 9 Jewellery Store, whose contributions were instrumental in the success of INGRAW 2024.

The insights gained and connections made during this conference will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing development and dissemination of knowledge which are vital in this field.

Text: Shafinaz Md Ismail/Editing: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin/Photo: Shamil Shazwan Abu Bakar