KUCHING: Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, has called on graduates of Institut Kemahiran Islam Malaysia Sarawak (IKMAS) to uphold Islamic values while embracing modern knowledge and skills to contribute to Sarawak’s development.
Congratulating the 94 graduates, he reminded them that the convocation is not the end of learning but the start of greater responsibilities.
“This ceremony is not the conclusion of your pursuit of knowledge, but the beginning of wider challenges and opportunities ahead,” he said at the 21st IKMAS Convocation held at the Sarawak Islamic Complex Hall on Tuesday.
Wan Junaidi highlighted that Islamic knowledge extends far beyond ritual practices.
“It is not enough to read or memorise the Quran. Graduates must master its disciplines to understand its depth and apply its guidance in modern life,” he said.
Wan Junaidi reminded graduates that knowledge must go hand in hand with good character.
“Islam is not complete with knowledge alone, but with noble character. Even small acts like respecting rules, being disciplined, and avoiding waste reflect our faith,” he said.
He also cautioned against social ills, from drug abuse to bullying, which undermine Islamic values and society at large.
Wan Junaidi encouraged IKMAS to broaden its scope beyond preparing students for religious roles.
He urged the institution to align with Sarawak’s economic transformation under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which focuses on renewable energy, hydrogen, methanol, solar, algae, and the digital economy.
“Not all graduates will serve in mosques or religious institutions. Some must become administrators, counsellors, entrepreneurs, researchers, or even engineers who carry Islamic values into their work,” he said.
Wan Junaidi also urged graduates to emulate the achievements of Muslim scholars during the Islamic Golden Age, when figures like Ibn Sina and Al-Zahrawi advanced medicine and science.
“These scholars show us that effort, not mere prayer, produces results. Graduates must strive to match their excellence so that IKMAS can stand proudly alongside other institutions,” he said.
Towards this end, he called on graduates to continue learning and serving society with wisdom, humility and compassion.
“Let today’s success be the start of a greater journey,” he said.
