BY AZWALIEZA KHAI
SAMARAHAN: Universities must go beyond imparting knowledge to cultivate wisdom and human values amid rapid technological change, artificial intelligence (AI) and growing global challenges.
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) vice-chancellor Professor Dr Ahmad Hata Rasit said that in pursuing progress, the most fundamental element, which is wisdom, must not be overlooked.
“Knowledge must always be guided by ethics and wisdom so that the development we achieve truly brings well-being to society,” he said while delivering a speech at the Syarahan Peradaban titled ‘Kesatuan Ilmu dan Hikmah Perlembagaan: Teori Al-Farabi’ at Auditorium PeTARY, UNIMAS, here today (Aug 3) .
He also stressed the continued relevance of the philosophy of renowned Islamic thinker Al-Farabi in addressing modern challenges, where scientific and intellectual advancement must be balanced with strong moral and ethical foundations.
He added that the collaboration between UNIMAS and the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) in organising the lecture reflected their shared commitment to strengthening the nation’s higher education sector by nurturing values-based talent and advancing research that benefits society.
“These values are closely aligned with Sarawak’s identity, which is built on the strength of its ethnic, cultural, and religious diversity.
“As Sarawak progresses towards developed-state status, the development we aspire to is not based solely on economic growth, but also encompasses unity, sustainability, and the well-being of the people.”
This role is further reinforced by UNIMAS’ Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FSSH) through its ‘A Partner for Social Change’ aspiration, positioning itself as a strategic partner in understanding social change, shaping inclusive policies, and strengthening human values.
Prof Ahmad Hata said this was also in line with the UNIMAS Strategic Plan 2026 to 2030 through the IDEA framework, which emphasises four key pillars: development begins with human capital formation, innovation benefits society, knowledge creates global impact, and progress is sustained for future generations.
“I hope the insights shared by Professor Emeritus Datuk Seri Dr Osman Bakar will inspire all of us to continue upholding knowledge as the foundation of leadership, unity, and national development.”
The event featured National Maal Hijrah Figure Professor Emeritus Datuk Seri Dr Osman Bakar, whose return to UNIMAS was described as a homecoming, as he had previously served as an academic at the university.
Prof Osman is widely respected for his significant contributions to Islamic philosophy, inter-civilisational dialogue, and human capital development.
