AIU and its mission to serve humanity

In early August 2025, I had the opportunity to visit Albukhary International University (AIU) in Alor Setar, Kedah, at the invitation of AMSA, a student organization dedicated to supporting the welfare of Myanmar students on campus. I was accompanied by two colleagues from IIUM: Dr Maulana Akbar Shah from Myanmar, who is regarded within the Myanmar community at AIU as a father figure, readily advising and guiding emerging minds while seeking amicable solutions to community issues; and Dr Alizaman Dumangcag Gamon from the Philippines, whose extensive experience in international education and student affairs allowed him to contribute valuable insights and innovative ideas for enhancing student support and engagement. Our purpose in visiting AIU was to address the students on the epistemological and cosmological ideas found in the Qur’an. My interactions with students and my walkabout around the AIU campus filled my heart with awe. The magnificence of the buildings, their architectural design, and the carefully executed landscaping across the campus led me to reflect deeply on the philosophical foundations of the university, as well as the mission and vision underlying its establishment and existence.