At the off-site meeting of the Group Strategic Vision (GSV) “Russia – Islamic World” in Kuala Lumpur, Osman Bakar, the Rector of the International Islamic University Malaysia, emphasized Russia's unique position, which enables it to serve as a bridge between civilizations.
He pointed out that this year's theme, “Russia and the Islamic World: Cooperation in the Era of Emerging Multipolarity,” reflects the changing dynamics of global politics and the critical need to reassess relationships in order to ensure justice, equality, and collective prosperity for humanity. The emerging multipolar world demands not only strategic alliances but also ethical principles. “For us Muslims, this guidance should stem from the principles of Tawhid—the unity of Allah—which form the foundation of our worldview and all human endeavors.
As the world transitions from unipolar dominance to a more multipolar reality, we witness both challenges and opportunities. The rise of powers such as BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) signals a shift towards a more balanced global governance structure. The initiatives and plans discussed at the latest summit reflect a growing recognition of inclusivity in decision-making processes, economic cooperation, and the need to address common global challenges such as security and sustainability.
For the Muslim world, this is a moment for reflection and recalibration. How do we position ourselves as a united yet diverse Ummah in this new world order? How can we ensure that our voices are not only heard but also make a meaningful contribution to the global discussion on peace, security, and economic development? The answers to these questions lie in strengthening partnerships based on shared values, mutual respect, and a commitment to improving humanity as a whole.
An example of such a partnership is the relationship between the Russian Federation and Muslim peoples. With a significant Muslim population within Russia itself and historical ties with the Islamic world, Russia occupies a unique position. It serves both as a bridge between civilizations and as a partner capable of enriching our collective efforts to achieve global peace and prosperity.
Central to the vision of a multipolar world is fostering interreligious and interethnic harmony. As Muslims, the Quran reminds us that diversity is a sign of Allah's wisdom: “O humanity! Indeed, We created you from a male and a female, and made you into peoples and tribes so that you may get to know one another. Surely the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous among you.” (Surah Al-Hujurat: 13). This verse emphasizes that diversity is not a cause for division but a foundation for mutual understanding and cooperation. By fostering respect and understanding across religious and ethnic lines, we can shape frameworks for peaceful coexistence that transcend geographical borders. In this context, the dialogue between Russia and the Islamic world today is timely, and we must make the most of this opportunity.
The emerging multipolarity also opens up economic opportunities, particularly in areas such as Islamic finance. Islamic finance is not only a tool for economic growth, but also a means of embedding ethical norms within the global financial system. Its principles of risk-sharing, prohibition of interest, and investment in socially beneficial projects align with sustainable development goals. Russia, with its growing interest in Islamic finance, offers an opportunity for cooperation that can benefit not only Muslims but also broader communities. By integrating Islamic finance into Russia's economic system, we can contribute to equitable development and strengthen economic ties between the Muslim world and Russia. Institutions such as our university are ready to provide expert knowledge, research, and education to support these initiatives, guided by the principles of mercy for all worlds.
I am pleased to report that at the International Islamic University Malaysia, we are honored to have multidisciplinary expertise that can be shared with our Russian colleagues to foster mutually beneficial cooperation. The university has made significant progress in areas such as halal food production and standards, halal tourism, Islamic banking and finance, Islamic theology, and leadership in cybersecurity. In the area of Islamic banking and finance, the university has contributed significantly through its research and educational programs, offering insight into Islamic financial instruments and ethical investment practices. Our reliable Islamic banking and finance programs lay the foundation for creating just financial systems. The university’s scholars have numerous publications on Sharia-compliant banking systems and have been appointed as advisors in prominent banking and academic institutions, making the university a center for developing mechanisms to integrate Islamic finance into the global economy. These contributions can support Russia’s growing interest in entering Islamic financial markets.
Our research and training in the halal ecosystem provide a foundation for ethical consumption and tourism in line with global sustainable development goals. At our university, there are notable initiatives in halal tourism, highlighting the integration of cultural and ethical considerations to enhance the travel experience for Muslim travelers. Research published by the university underscores the economic and cultural benefits of promoting halal gastronomic tourism, which is becoming increasingly relevant for uniting Muslim communities worldwide.
A hallmark of our academic achievements will be our research in Islamic theology, which fosters deeper interfaith understanding, including in the new field of leadership in cybersecurity. The university integrates the principles of Tawhid with cutting-edge technologies, ensuring a value-based approach to digital governance and responsible AI practices. It offers training and expertise in ensuring digital security within strong ethical values, which could serve as a valuable model for cooperation with Russian institutions aimed at strengthening cybersecurity infrastructure while respecting cultural and ethical aspects.
The relationship between Russia and the Islamic world should be defined by these ethical frameworks. Together, we must tackle global issues such as climate change, social inequality, and the erosion of moral values. I strongly urge that by prioritizing these matters, we can shape a multipolar world that is not only balanced in terms of power but also enriched by a shared commitment to human dignity and resilience.
As we gather to discuss the prospects for cooperation and peace, we must not overlook the harsh realities faced by many of our Muslim brothers and sisters around the world. In regions suffering from conflict, persecution, and systemic discrimination, they face profound hardships that test the resilience of the global Ummah, challenging us, our principles, and beliefs. From the struggles of displaced communities to the silenced voices of the oppressed, these realities remind us of our collective duty to act with compassion and determination. It is crucial that leaders, scholars, and nations stand for justice, uphold human dignity, and address the root causes of these atrocities, emphasized Osman Bakar”, Rector of the International Islamic University Malaysia.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"