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òbÙ“¾a òbÙ“¾a T T L L - - MISHKAH MISHKAH SULTAN SHARIF ALI ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY , BRUNEI DARUSSALAM * NEWSLETTER * ISSUE 3 * MUHARRAM - RABIULAKHIR 1429H / JANUARY - APRIL 2008M A Progressive And Dynamic International Islamic University Based On Al-Quran And Al-Sunnah Message from the Editorial Board Programmes and Activities Organised In Conjunction With the Establishment of UNISSA Leadership Course for Students Representative Council UNISSA Receives Visitors from UMS UNISSA Officials Attend Cairo Book Fair UNISSA Law Programme A Hit During Open Day UNISSA Participates in Study at UBD Fair UNISSA Takes Part in Brunei’s 24th National Day Celebration UNISSA was established on 1st January 2008 by the Titah of His Majesty the Sultan and the Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam. The first anniversary was celebrated together with the commemoration of the Islamic New Year of 1429 Hijrah and launching of UNISSA's new logo. Present as the guest of honour to officiate the event and launch the logo was the Deputy Minister of Education cum UNISSA Rector, Pg Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad Bin Pg Hj Abdul Rahman. In his speech, Pg Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad was happy with the progress and development of UNISSA. He urged all the staff and students to work very hard to make this university a centre of excellence which is equal if not better to other established universities in the region. He also urged UNISSA to create an alumni association as the first batch of Master students will start graduating this year. "Such a creation is important as alumni members will become an important asset to the university to collate moral support and monetary contributions after they graduate," Pg Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad said. He also put forward a suggestion in the setting up of UNISSA's internally circulated newspaper - called SUARA Siswa/Siswi Unissa - for the students to read, to promote the university and their talents. Quality Assurance Workshop Lawatan Imiah Penghayatan Konsep MIB Majlis Perhimpunan & Perarakan Program Khidmat Masyarakat (Menuai Padi) Maulidurrasul Celebration “Towards An Effective Evaluation” Workshop Bengkel Pengurusan Jenazah UNISSA in Hijrah Forum Competition Muzakarah Session With the Rector 2 3 10 12 12 13 14 15 17 19 20 21 21 22 23 \Çá|wx \Çá|wx \Çá|wx \Çá|wx UNISSA CELEBRATES THE FIRST ANNIVERSARY OF ITS ESTABLISHMENT Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) celebrated its first anniversary with a thanksgiving ceremony at the Chancellor Hall of Universiti Brunei Darussalam on 14 th January 2008. … continued on Page 2 The Deputy Minister of Education delivering his speech 13 23

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Page 1: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

òbÙ������“¾aòbÙ������“¾a T T LL--MISHKAHMISHKAH

SULTAN SHARIF ALI ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY , BRUNEI DARUSSALAM

* NEWSLETTER * ISSUE 3 * MUHARRAM - RABIULAKHIR 1429H / JANUARY - APRIL 2008M

A Progressive And Dynamic International Islamic University Based On Al-Quran And Al-Sunnah

♦ Message from the Editorial Board

♦ Programmes and Activities Organised In Conjunction With the Establishment of UNISSA

♦ Leadership Course for Students Representative Council

♦ UNISSA Receives Visitors from UMS

♦ UNISSA Officials Attend Cairo Book Fair

♦ UNISSA Law Programme A Hit During Open Day

♦ UNISSA Participates in Study at UBD Fair

♦ UNISSA Takes Part in Brunei’s 24th National Day Celebration

UNISSA was established on 1st January 2008 by the Titah of His Majesty the Sultan and the Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam. The first anniversary was celebrated together with the commemoration of the Islamic New Year of 1429 Hijrah and launching of UNISSA's new logo. Present as the guest of honour to officiate the event and launch the logo was the Deputy Minister of Education cum UNISSA Rector, Pg Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad Bin Pg Hj Abdul Rahman. In his speech, Pg Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad was happy with the progress and development of UNISSA. He urged all the staff and students to

work very hard to make this university a centre of excellence which is equal if not better to other established universities in the region. He also urged UNISSA to create an alumni association as the first batch of Master students will start graduating this year. "Such a creation is important as alumni members will become an important asset to the university to collate moral support and monetary contributions after they graduate," Pg Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad said. He also put forward a suggestion in the setting up of UNISSA's internally circulated newspaper - called SUARA Siswa/Siswi Unissa - for the students to read, to promote the university and their talents.

♦ Quality Assurance Workshop

♦ Lawatan Imiah Penghayatan Konsep MIB

♦ Majlis Perhimpunan & Perarakan

♦ Program Khidmat Masyarakat (Menuai Padi)

♦ Maulidurrasul Celebration

♦ “Towards An Effective Evaluation” Workshop

♦ Bengkel Pengurusan Jenazah

♦ UNISSA in Hijrah Forum Competition

♦ Muzakarah Session With the Rector

2

3 10

12 12

13

14

15 17

19 20

21 21

22 23

\Çá|wx\Çá|wx\Çá|wx\Çá|wx

UNISSA CELEBRATES THE FIRST ANNIVERSARY OF ITS ESTABLISHMENT

Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) celebrated its first anniversary with a thanksgiving ceremony at the Chancellor Hall of Universiti Brunei Darussalam on 14th January 2008.

… continued on Page 2

The Deputy Minister of Education

delivering his speech

13

23

Page 2: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

FROM THE EDITORIAL BOARD

In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Dear Reader, Once again we meet in this new issue of Al-Mishkah. As usual, you will read hard and interesting news about UNISSA, our esteemed university. This issue, however, focuses mainly on the development of the educational programs that have been lately introduced at UNISSA. In addition to that, you will read an exclusive interview on this topic with UNISSA’s Academic Advisor. With these subtle and attractive academic programs, UNISSA’s image can be very attractive not only to our local students, but to international students as well. We wish you great joy in reading this third issue of Al-Mishkah newsletter.

Page 2

EDITORIAL BOARD

Chief Editor Assoc Prof Dr Arif Karkhi Abukhudairi

Assistant Chief Editor Wan Habib Bin Wan Ibrahim

Editors Assoc Prof Dr Imtiaz Ahmad

Dr Hj Abdurrahman Raden Aji Haqqi Dr Ayman Abdel Raouf Saleh

Dr Korany Abdel Halim Abdullah Safa Dr Saber Ahmed Taha

Hj Md Samari Bin Hj Md Noh Hayatuddin Bin Hj Moksin

Pg Hj Saiful Bahrin Bin Pg Hj Kula Hjh Sri Rahayu@Nurjanah Bt Hj Dollah

Kujaimah Binti Hj Abd Kahar

Photographer Wan Habib Bin Wan Ibrahim

Md Zefri Bin Hj Besar

Graphic Designer Wan Habib Bin Wan Ibrahim

For enquiry: Call: +6732462000

or email to:

[email protected]

For accessing the electronic copy of the newsletter, please visit: www.unissa.edu.bn

©Al-Mishkah January - April 2008

He expressed his belief that UNISSA will give birth to successful students through competitions, such as speech contests, debate and forum, where they can make preparations for their future. He encouraged the students to be proud of being a part of UNISSA, and urged them to do their best for themselves and the university. In launching UNISSA's new logo, Pg Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad described it as unique, dynamic, patriotic and Islamic. During the ceremony, Pg Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad presented a letter of appreciation to four UNISSA logo designers, as well as appointment letters to 10 members of the UNISSA Students Representative Council upon completion of their three-day course. To commemorate the anniversary and the Islamic New Year, a thanksgiving doa was recited and a special talk on Hijrah was delivered by the UNISSA Academic Advisor, Professor Dato Dr Abdul Monir Yaacob, was held.

… from page 1

Among recipients of logo designing

contest appreciation

A students’ representative receiving

his appointment letter

Page 3: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

Page 3

RELIGIOUS ORATION AND SERMON DELIVERING CONTEST

The religious oration and sermon delivering competition was held at UBD's Multipurpose Hall on 12th January (Religious Oration for Secondary Schools) and 16th January 2008 (Religious Oration and Sermon Delivering for Higher Educational Institutions & Technical Colleges). In the oration competition for higher educational institutions and technical colleges, UBD's Hasharinuddin bin Hj Abu Bakar and UNISSA's Norraifana binti Hj Moksin won the first place in the male and female categories respectively. Jamil bin Hj Moksin scored another win for UBD when he claimed the first place at the sermon delivering competition with his sermon titled "Deviant Teachings". The oration participants were required to speak on the topic "Firm Faith Assures Blessings" and were given a 10-minute limit. As for the sermon delivering competition, participants were to choose sermons already delivered in mosques in 2007.

PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES ORGANISED IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE ESTABSIHMENT OF UNISSA

In celebrating its establishment, UNISSA organised a number of activities at national, regional and international levels, including sports tournament, religious oration and sermon delivering contest, jawi writing competition, regional al-Quran reading competition as well as an international seminar.

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

Dr Hjh Masnon, Assistant Rector

delivering an opening speech

One of the participants in the Oration

Contest for secondary schools

Judges of the competition

Tausyeh performance by UNISSA

students Norraifana from UNISSA

UBD’s Jamil bin Hj Moksin Dr Hj Md Yusop, Deputy Rector

presenting souvenir to one of the judges

Abdul Rashid from UNISSA

Page 4: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

Page 4

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

REGIONAL HIGHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS AL-QURAN READING COMPETITION

UNISSA OPEN JAWI WRITING COMPETITION

On 28th January 2008, UNISSA organised a Jawi Writing Competition opened to students of educational institutions in the country - particularly in Brunei/Muara district - as well as to new Muslim converts and non-Muslims. The competition was held at the Senate Room, Chancellor Hall, Universiti Brunei Darussalam. Guest of Honour in the opening ceremony was Dr Mataim Bin Bakar, Director of Language and Literature Bureau. In his speech, Dr Mataim stressed the importance of teaching and developing Jawi script in order to preserve the heritage of Islam and Malay people. This competition is hoped to be able to unleash the talent of the participants that should then be nurtured further through various exposures such as workshops, classes and higher level competitions.

The Guest of Honour

During the opening ceremony One of the participants in Primary

Schools category

Higher Educational Institutions

participants

On 1st February 2008, UNISSA organised an Al-Quran Reading Competition with participants comprising students from higher educational institutions in the region. Five male and five female participants have performed their recitation on that night. UNISSA was represented by Awg Hj Md Nor Bin Hj Ibrahim and Dyg Siti Nuriana Binti Ali. In male and female categories, both participants representing Kolej Perguruan Ugama Seri Begawan (KUPUSB) won first place, respectively. The Guest of Honour, Pehin Orang Kaya Dewa Pahlawan Dato Paduka Awang Haji Dani Bin Haji Ibrahim, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, later presented the prizes to the recipients. He commended UNISSA for organizing the competition and urged all students to read and understand Al-Quran. The Guest of Honour

delivering his speech

Guest of Honour and invited guests Male participant from UNISSA Group photo of all the participants

Page 5: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

Page 5

UNISSA INVITATION TEN PIN BOWLING TOURNAMENT

This tournament was held at Utama Bowling Centre, Bandar Seri Begawan on 18th January 2008. Every participating higher educational institution prepared five teams for male category - one for VIP, two for staffs and two more for students and four teams for female category - two for staffs and two for students. The Guest of Honour, Pg Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad Bin Pg Hj Abdul Rahman, the Rector of UNISSA - who himself represented UNISSA in VIP category - officially opened the tournament with a bowling a throw.

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

UNISSA FUTSAL TOURNAMENT FOR HIGHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS AND PRE-UNIVERSITIES

The tournament was divided into two categories: staff and students. The preliminary round was held as early as the end of December 2007. The final round was held on 23rd January 2008 at UBD Sports Complex Hall. Both teams from UBD claimed the top spot after showing brilliant performance. Deputy Rector of UNISSA, Dr Hj Md Yusop Bin Hj Awg Damit attended the final as Guest of Honour and presented tokens of appreciation to the invited referees throughout the tournament.

Page 6: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

Page 6

UNISSA HIGHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS SPORTS TOURNAMENT

Apart from the Futsal and Ten Pin tournaments, UNISSA also organised a one-week sports tournament, which comprises badminton, ping-pong, sepaktakraw, track events and tug-of-war. Five higher educational institutions in the country took part in the tournament, namely Sultan Sharif Ali Islamic Universiti (UNISSA), Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), Kolej Perguruan Ugama Seri Begawan (KUPUSB), Institut Teknologi Brunei (ITB) and Pengiran Anak Rashidah Sa’datul Bolkiah Nursing College (MJPAPRSB). The tournament started with badminton and ping-pong matches held at UBD Sport Complex Hall on 20th January 2008. Before that, an opening ceremony was held officiated by the Rector of UNISSA, Pg Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad Bin Pg Hj Abd Rahman.

Opening ceremony

… and ping-pong matches

Followed by badminton matches...

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

Page 7: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

Page 7

The week long tournament ended on 27th January 2008 with track events and tug-of-war held at UBD Sports Field. The Guest of Honour, Dr Hj Md Yusop Bin Hj Awg Damit, Deputy Rector of UNISSA, joined the crowd in the aerobic exercise during warm-up session in the morning and later watched the track events and tug-of-war matches before officiating the tournament’s closing ceremony and presenting tokens of appreciation to referees involved throughout the tournament.

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

The tournament continued with sepaktakraw matches held on 22nd January 2008.

Page 8: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

Page 8

A prize presentation ceremony for competitions organised in conjunction with the establishment of Sultan Sharif Ali University (UNISSA) was held on 20th February 2008 at the Chancellor Hall, Universiti Brunei Darussalam. The ceremony was held to celebrate the winners of the religious and sport events organised by UNISSA from December 2007 to January 2008. Present at the ceremony as the guest of honour was Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad bin Pengiran Hj Abd Rahman, Acting Minister of Education cum University Islam Sultan Sharif Ali Rector. The ceremony began with the handing over of prizes to winners in the Religious Speech Contest for secondary schools and higher education institutes, followed by the Friday Sermon and Jawi Writing contests as well as sports events. Other prizes were also given away in other categories, which included football, badminton, tug-of-war, netball, ping-pong and athletics. The guest of honour presented the prizes to all the winners.

PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY FOR WINNERS IN RELIGIOUS AND SPORT CONTESTS IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE ESTABLISHMENT OF UNISSA

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

The Guest of Honor and the invited guests

Among the participants and prize recipients

The Guest of Honor delivering his speech

Presenting the prizes to the recipients

Page 9: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

Page 9

In conjunction with its establishment, UNISSA held a two-day programme entitled "Higher Islamic Studies International Seminar" at the Chancellor Hall, Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) on 5-6th February 2008. Dr Hj Md Yusop Bin Hj Awg Damit, Deputy Rector cum Chairman of the seminar explained the objective of the seminar, as part of the university's many activities to celebrate and commemorate the establishment of UNISSA, was to identify administration systems and concepts that can be adapted by the university, as well as to expose and raise UNISSA's name at the international level, among others. Present as the event's guest of honour was Pehin Dato Seri Setia Hj Abd Rahman Bin Dato Setia Hj Mohd Taib, the Minister of Education. The Minister urged UNISSA to learn and adapt the best practices from other established universities in its endeavour to move forward. Also in attendance were Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Hj Abd Aziz Juned, the State Mufti, as well as Pg Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohammad Pg Hj Abd Rahman, the Deputy Minister of Education, who both presented their respective working papers during the first session. The second session saw two more papers presented by Professor Dr Mohammad Khazer al-Majali, representing the President of the Jordanian University, and Professor Dr Sidek Baba, representing the Rector of the International Islamic University of Malaysia (IIUM). Meanwhile in the third session, two papers were presented by Professor Dato’ Dr Abdul Shukor bin Haji Husin, Vice Chancellor of the Islamic Science University of Malaysia (USIM), and Professor Datuk Dr Abdul Monir bin Yaacob, UNISSA’s Academic Advisor.

INTERNATIONAL SEMINAR ON HIGHER ISLAMIC STUDIES

The Guest of Honor and the invited guests

Among the participants in the seminar

Second session Third session

First session

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

Page 10: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

Page 10

In order to equip the members of the Students’ Representative Council with the ability to become a leader, the Students’ Affair of UNISSA organized a three-day leadership course which took place in several parts of the Brunei-Muara and Temburong districts. The Students’ Representative Council is a students’ association of the University formed from a democratic system and the members are appointed by a voting process. The objectives are to co-operate with the University in supervising students’ affairs. Ten members of the Students’ Representative Council, guided by Pg. Hj Saiful Bahrin Bin Pg. Hj Kula (Dean of Students’ Affairs of UNISSA) along with five other lecturers, took part in the course which started on 28th Zulhijjah 1428 / 7th January 2008 and ended on 30th Zulhijjah 1428 / 9th January 2008. The course, which consists of series of activities, was seen as a very essential step towards enhancing the members’ leadership ability and skills, as well as developing their confidence. The aim of the course was to create high-quality and highly-skilled person in addition to creating effective leaders. The series of the course started at the Senate Room, Chancellor Hall, UBD. Participants were given a briefing session about the Students’ Association’s role and responsibilities. It was followed by speeches given by Prof. Datuk Dr. Abdul Monir Bin Yaacob (Academic Advisor of UNISSA), Dr. Hjh Masnon Binti Hj Ibrahim (Assistant Rector of UNISSA), Hj Tarip Bin Mat Yassin (Registrar of UNISSA), along with three invited guests: Awg Hj Malik Bin Mohammad (Chief Director of Ministry of Sports and Youth), Awg Hj Bujang Bin Masuud (Chief Editor of Brunei Press) and Puan Hjh Suhaina Binti Mat Ludin (Counselling Officer from Universiti Brunei Darussalam).

Speech given by UNISSA Academic

Advisor

Visit to

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

LEADERSHIP COURSE FOR STUDENTS’ REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL, UNISSA STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION 2007/2008

Group photo taken during the course opening ceremony.

Male representatives

Female representatives

Page 11: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

Page 11

The purpose of this session was to give a brief idea about the main skills a good leader should have. It was also to motivate them to always be prepared and be strong spiritually, mentally and physically - as leaders may face many obstacles, challenges and problems in their work.

The course continued in selected locations in the Temburong District. On the second day of the course, participants were put to the test in the physical fitness session at Outward Bound Batang Duri which was conducted by two trainers and some facilitators. They gave the group a number of tasks to test both their mental and physical abilities. Everyone was forced to think critically, to decide quickly, to face their fears, and to control their stress while solving a difficult task in working as a team.

The Students’ Representative Council was also given the opportunity to lead some religious activities at Masjid Utama Mohammad Salleh, Temburong. Each of the male members had the chance to become imam of the jemaah in performing prayers, yasin and tahlil recitations, qiyamul-

lail and so on. A kuliyah subuh (morning lecture) was given by lecturers from UNISSA. This was to train the students to become leaders in social and religious activities as well as to enhance their spiritual strength through Islamic teachings and ethics.

A discussion also took place at night to give an opportunity to each of the members to voice their opinions and enquiries about the university matters, administration structure and leadership. The discussion was intended to help the members to clarify any issues or alleviate any concerns.

On the last day of the course, the students in company with the lecturers visited the unique Ulu Temburong National Park to explore and gain some knowledge about the sultanate’s most precious treasure: a vast area of primary rainforest. The students and the lecturers took this opportunity to experience new things such as travelling through the Ulu Temburong River by temuai (a small type of boat), trekking through the woods and climbing the canopy walkway.

The closing ceremony of the course was held after the Financial Management briefing, given by Hj Sulaiman Bin Latip (Bursar of UNISSA), at the District Officer’s building. In the closing speech, the Guest of Honour, Dr Hj Md Yusop Bin Hj Awg Damit, advised the student leaders to use what they learned from the training in their duties as student leaders of the university. He also advised them to study hard because they are supposed to be the role models for other students. The course was a success. The members of the Students’ Representative Council gained a lot of knowledge, experiences and confidence which will enable them to uphold the University’s vision and mission.

With UNISSA principal officers

Discussion session

Flying Fox

Walking on the Canopy Bridge

Teamwork Training

Briefing prior to physical training

Religious talk by the

Students’ Dean

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

Page 12: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

On 23 January 2008, a committee consists of the Dean of Faculty of Arabic Language and Islamic Civilization (FAL), the Dean of Faculty of Usuluddin (FOU), the Dean of Faculty of Shariah and Law (FSL) and UNISSA’s Bursar set off an official trip to Egypt for buying new books for the newly established library of the university. The trip was in conjunction with Cairo Book Fair, one of the largest book fairs in the Middle East. The committee purchased more than 4,000 new titles for the library.

Page 12

Queuing outside the Book Fair

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

Selecting books With His Excellency Embassador of

Brunei to Egypt (Third from left)

With the bookstore owner

A group of visitors from Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) made a visit to Brunei and had a meeting with UNISSA officials on 21st January 2008 as one of the main programs in their three-day work visit. The group comprises administration staff members headed by Vice Chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Noh Daliman, as well as three Deputy Vice Chancellors and deans of thirteen faculties. The meeting session was held at the Chancellor Hall of Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD). Both universities agreed to forge closer relations and cooperate in different fields.

UNISSA RECEIVED VISITORS FROM UNIVERSITY MALAYSIA SABAH (UMS)

Group photo taken outside the Chancellor

Hall Principal officers of the two universities Vice Chancellor of

UMS

UNISSA OFFICIALS ATTEND CAIRO BOOK FAIR

Page 13: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

Page 13

On the 10th February 2008, scores of prospective students attended UNISSA’s Open Day for the university's 2nd intake at the UBD Multipurpose Hall. Many of the visitors were seen making a beeline for the staff providing information on the programs offered by the university.

One of the most enquired programs on that day was the newly offered Bachelor of Law program, which is taught in English. Bachelor of law program will be offered at the University to produce the country's very own law officers and other law-related manpower who can even cater to the needs of other sectors.

During the opening of the new legal year on 18 March 2008 , Attorney General (AG) and Public Prosecutor, Dato Seri Paduka Haji Kifrawi bin Dato Paduka Haji Kifli, welcomed the introduction of the law program in UNISSA. "For the first time, we will be producing our own lawyers. Brunei Darussalam still needs more lawyers," he said, adding that UNISSA-trained local lawyers should be recruited to work for the Attorney General's Chambers, government ministries and the courts. The AG believes that law graduates from UNISSA could also become administrative officers, and with the necessary legal knowledge and management skills could be useful to the public service. In the same occasion, Awg Zainidi Bin Abd Hamid, the President of Brunei Law Society also welcomed the introduction of the law program as a good development for Brunei Darussalam.

UNISSA LAW PROGRAMME A HIT DURING OPEN DAY

During the briefing session The law program explained View given by current UNISSA student

UNISSA PARTICIPATES IN “STUDY AT UBD” FAIR

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

UNISSA was invited to take part in the “Study at UBD” fair held on 16th February 2008 at the Chancellor Hall, Universiti Brunei Darussalam.

Page 14: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

Page 14

UNISSA TAKES PART IN BRUNEI’S 24TH NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATION

His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Negara

Brunei Darussalam watching the march past

On 24th February, 2008, the nation marked the 24th National Day with great joy, pride and splendour as thousands converged in the capital to witness and participate in the grand parade of celebration at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien in the capital. The celebrations were on this year's theme — ‘Tunas Bangsa’ — signifying how nature and people, especially youths, need to be nurtured so as to contribute to the nation's development. UNISSA was one of the higher educational institutions that participated in the celebration. The contingent – consisting one hundred and twenty participants including academic staffs, officers and students - was led by UNISSA’s Registrar, Hj Tarip bin Hj Mat Yassin and Dean of Students’ Affair, Pg. Hj Saiful Bahrin bin Pg Hj Kula.

During the rehearsal session

Among academic staffs, officers and students participated in the event

UNISSA Contingent led by the Registrar (2nd from left)

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

Page 15: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

Recent developments in education have resulted in the enhancement of its standards and quality becoming one of the most important challenges facing all nations. Such enhancement enables nations to cope with the consequences of globalization policies. Thus, education has become a matter of national strategic concern for both developing and developed nations. The need is to fulfill the main aim of education, which is to provide society with graduates capable of meeting its professional and research needs and of effectively participating in drawing-up and implementing the intended policies and plans of investment. The success of a project can be evaluated by the degree to which it meets the customer's requirements. Achieving this requires not only the resources of a number of organisations and individuals, but also the successful interaction amongst these parties. The concept of Quality Assurance has arisen to ensure that customer demands, and a level of quality and conformance are achieved. Quality Assurance is provided through the implementation of systemic management techniques ensuring control of the activities carried out by each party. Understanding the importance of Quality Assurance and within the celebrating period of the first new year of establishment, Sultan Sharif Ali Islamic University (UNISSA) hosted a one day Quality Assurance Workshop on 3rd March 2008 at the L R Asma Hotel in Jerudong. Deputy Minister of Education cum Rector of Unissa, Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohammad Pengiran Haji Abdul Rahman attended the session as guest of honour. During his opening speech, he complimented UNISSA for taking the early initiative to understanding the importance of quality. He also hoped that as the quality of UNISSA’s work increases, the quality of its outcome, that is the graduates, will also increase, thus benefiting the development of the country. This is in keeping with Brunei Darussalam's 2035 vision which aims to make Brunei to be recognised everywhere by 'the accomplishment of its well educated and highly skilled people, its quality of life and its dynamic, sustainable economy. Dr. Haji Mohd Yusop Haji Damit, the Deputy Rector of UNISSA as the chairman of the workshop, in his welcoming remarks pointed out that the success of UNISSA depended on the quality of the management, research, teaching and facilities at the university. It is followed by stressing the need for getting support from all members of the organisation.

Page 15

Speech by the Rector

QUALITY ASSURANCE WORKSHOP

Guests and participants during the opening ceremony

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

Page 16: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

Two experts on the Quality Assurance system from the Universiti Malaya were invited by UNISSA. Prof Dr Fauza Abd. Gaffar, the head of the Quality Assurance Management Unit (QAMU), and Assoc. Prof Dr Siti Meriam Abd. Ghani shared their views and expertise on the Quality Assurance system of Universiti Malaya. Universiti Malaya established a century ago during British colonial and modeled on great universities of the world. It has traditional methods of ensuring standard of education and has a legacy of academic excellence as well as produced renowned leaders. The workshop was divided into three sessions. In session 1, Prof Fauza spoke about “the Quality Framework for the University of Malay” and it was chaired by Assoc. Prof. Dr Arif Karkhi Abukhudairi, Dean of Faculty of Arabic Language and Islamic Civilisation. Then followed by session 2 in which Dr. Siti Meriam discussed on “the Customer Feedback for Continual Improvement in the Management of Higher Education: The UM Approach and was chaired by Dr. Ayman Salih, Dean of Faculty of Shariah and Law. In the afternoon, a discussion session took place and was chaired by Dr. Ayman. According to the presenters, there are three major processes identified as core processes that is the process of teaching and learning, research and the various support services ranging from human, financial and physical resource management, student affairs and residential college management as well as other support services lake sports, cultural and library services. The implementation of QA also cuts across the main campus of the University covering all academic centres which are offering academic programs (Faculties/Centers and Institutes) and services oriented centres. Present at the workshop were all academic staff of UNISSA and representatives from UBD (Universiti of Brunei Darussalam), ITB (Institute of Technology Brunei), KUPUSB (Seri Begawan University College for Religious Teachers Training) and the Ministry of Education.

Page 16

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

Page 17: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

Rombongan dari Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali seramai 90 orang yang terdiri daripada mahasiswa mahasiswi UNISSA telah mengadakan ‘Lawatan Ilmiah Penghayatan Konsep MIB’ ke Bangunan Baru Jabatan Majlis-Majlis Mesyuarat Negara pada 04 Rabiulawal 1429 bersamaan 12 March 2008.

Rombongan ini diketuai oleh Pg Anak Dr Haji Amiruddin Alam Shah bin Pg Anak Haji Ismail, Pengarah Pusat Penataran Ilmu dan Bahasa, UNISSA bersama Prof Datuk Dr Abdul Monir Yaacob, Penasihat Akademik, Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali dan juga Ustazah Mariam bt Abdul Rahman selaku Penyelaras Kursus MIB, Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali serta beberapa orang ahli akademik yang lainnya juga ikut serta dalam lawatan ini. Rombongan telah berkesempatan menyaksikan persidangan Dewan Majlis Negara dan kemudian beramah mesra dengan Yang Amat Mulia Yang Di-Pertua Mesyuarat Negara dan Ahli-Ahli Yang Berhormat.

‘Lawatan Ilmiah Penghayatan Konsep MIB’ diadakan bertujuan memperolehi pengalaman dan pengetahuan di samping kefahaman dan penghayatan tentang konsep MIB sebagai falsafah Negara Brunei Darussalam.

Selain itu, ‘Lawatan Ilmiah Penghayatan Konsep MIB’ ini juga diadakan khusus bagi membantu mahasiswa-mahasiswi UNISSA dalam memahami dan menghayati pembelajaran kursus MIB yang merupakan kursus wajib universiti.

Page 17

Bergambar kenangan bersama Yang Amat Mulia, Pengiran Anak Dr Hj Kamaludin, Yang Di-Pertua Mesyuarat Negara

(duduk nombor dua dari kiri)

LAWATAN ILMIAH PENGHAYATAN KONSEP MIB

Penerangan oleh Pengarah Pusat Penataran

Ilmu dan Bahasa

Salah seorang mahasiswa ditemuramah oleh

pihak RTB

Penasihat Akademik UNISSA (kiri) berbual

dengan salah seorang ahli Majlis Mesyuarat

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

Page 18: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

Di samping itu, ‘Lawatan Ilmiah Penghayatan Konsep MIB’ juga bertujuan untuk mendedahkan kepada mahasiswa-mahasiswi tentang perkara-perkara yang berhubung dengan kenegaraan dan sistem permuzakarahan di Negara Brunei Darussalam yang berasaskan konsep syura.

Rombongan ‘Lawatan Ilmiah Penghayatan Konsep MIB’ meneruskan lawatan ke Bangunan Alat-Alat Kebesaran Di Raja dan seterusnya ke Jabatan Adat Istiadat, di mana mereka idberikan taklimat dan penerangan mengenai sejarah bangunan Lapau, adat-istiadat Diraja serta Bahasa Dalam oleh Pg Dr Hidup Bin Pg Hj Shamsudin.

Manakala pada Isnin, rombongan meneruskan lawatan ke Kampong Ayer, di mana pada sebelah pagi, para peserta rombongan dibawa menelusuri sekeliling Kampong Ayer menggunakan bot untuk melihat lebih dekat keadaan dan suasana Kampong Ayer serta meninjau tempat-tempat bersejarah dan menarik seperti Jong Batu.

Setelah itu, para peserta singgah di kediaman Penghulu Mukim Tamoi, Pengarah Haji Mokti. Di sini, para peserta diberikan penerangan mengenai sejarah dan nostalgia Kampong Ayer di samping perbezaan kehidupan para penduduk pada zaman dahulu dan sekarang.

Di sebelah petang, para peserta dibawa melawat Masjid Kg. Tamoi yang terletak berdekatan dan mereka tidak melepas peluang untuk melakukan aktiviti amal dengan bergotong-royong membersihkan kawasan masjid tersebut sebagai salah satu sumbangan khidmat kepada masyarakat.

Page 18

Bergambar ramai di Bangunan Alat-Alat

Kebesaran Diraja

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

Bergambar kenangan di Bangunan Lapau

Penghulu Mukim Tamoi memberikan

penerangan mengenai budaya orang Brunei

Melihat lebih dekat Jong Batu

Salah seorang mahasiswa mengutarakan beberapa soalan

Page 19: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

Page 19

Suasana sekitar Majlis Perhimpunan dan Perarakan Sempena Sambutan Maulud Nabi Muhammad Sallallahu ‘Alaihi Wasallam

yang diadakan pada 20 Mac 2008 bertempat di Padang Sir Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien, Bandar Seri Begawan.

MAJLIS PERHIMPUNAN DAN PERARAKAN SEMPENA SAMBUTAN MAULUD NABI MUHAMMAD SALLALLAHU ‘ALAIHI WASALLAM 1429H

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

Dr Hj Md Yusop, Timbalan Rektor dan para pensyarah dari UNISSA berpeluang

beramah mesra bersama Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan

Page 20: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

Pusat Penataran Ilmu dan Bahasa, Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali telah mengadakan Program Khidmat Masyarakat melalui aktiviti menuai padi di Kampong Lamunin, Daerah Tutong pada hari Jumaat, 20 Rabiulawal 1429 bersamaan 28 March 2008. Seramai 84 orang mahasiswa dan mahasiswi Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) menyertai program tersebut yang diketuai oleh Pg Anak Dr Haji Amiruddin Alam Shah bin Pg Anak Haji Ismail, Pengarah Pusat Penataran Ilmu dan Bahasa, Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali bersama Prof Datuk Dr Abdul Monir Yaacob Penasihat Akademik, Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali, Ustaz Mohd Hazmi bin Haji Ahmad Daud selaku Ketua Penyelaras Ko-Kurikulum dan Ustazah Mariam binti Abdul Rahman selaku Penyelaras Program Khidmat Masyarakat serta be-berapa orang ahli akademik yang lainnya. Pelajar yang menyertai aktiviti menuai padi tersebut dibahagikan kepada dua kumpulan di mana pelajar perempuan berada di sawah padi milik Awang Haji Ahmad Daud bin Mohd Idris serta isteri. Sementara kumpulan pelajar lelaki berada di sawah padi milik Awang Haji Zaidi bin Taha serta isteri.

Page 20

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

PROGRAM KHIDMAT MASYARAKAT (MENUAI PADI)

Kumpulan Pelajar Perempuan UNISSA bersama Pengarah Pusat

Penataran Ilmu dan Bahasa (tengah barisan depan)

Penasihat Akademik UNISSA

juga “turun padang”

Page 21: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

`m^Un o اijkfض TUV WXYZ [\ T]^_` T]^a bcdTefTgدل اYU}fات اxآTدb^uX واqf bXigYzfى اwVTnxة اqufرqr\ ،[^nت �bcdT اT���fن اo�\ �XY_f ا�b^d�n ورikcg mu\ baان

" b^fTc` Yأآ� �^^rV i�� " ءTcgرxم اiX ءT�d٩ mXYgم ٢٠٠٨إ b`Y� o`ي ٢Tو�Yg bcdTeg Y��k� b\Trg oر�xا WgT�fا .دارا��fم

وqjVف ه�w اifرba إ�f اT_zfور وTUVدل اYU}fات �d اwVTnxة �iل rV Y^XTcd q^�iV^^� أداء ا��fب `o اid m�d bcdTefا �Tت اb�]nx اq^efة، وidا �Tت ا��zf^� اq^ef، آqjV Tuف إ�f ا�g �XYczfه� o�\ �XY_fن اT���fا bcdT��Yg bcdTو�Tي دارا��fم و [^g تT�اY�fوق odT¢� [^g ا¡T�T�zdت واqfر

وأدأر ه�w اifرba اqfآizر أ�fT  [uX، . ا�b^d�n، وا��bgT \] أb�]n اwVTnxة اwjg br�czufا اY¤fض b^d�nا� o�\ �XY_fن اT���fا bcdTeg bcXY_fا b^آ� q^u\.

baرifح اTzz`ا

DEFGا IJور"INGOFP QRأآ UNNVW XYZ"

Among the officers, lecturers and

staffs attending the ceremony

Page 21

On 2nd April 2008, UNISSA held a Maulidurrasul Sallallahu ‘Alaihi Wasallam celebration at the Lecture Hall, Chancellor, UBD. Apart from Dikir Marhaban recital, the event was filled with a religious talk given Dr. Ayman Saleh, Dean of Faculty of Shariah.

MAULIDURRASUL SALLALLAHU ‘ALAIHI WASALLAM 1429H CELEBRATION

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

Page 22: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

Pusat Penataran Ilmu dan Bahasa, Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali di bawah kursus Ko-Kurikulum telah mengadakan Bengkel Pengurusan Jenazah (‘Amali) bagi mahasiswa/i UNISSA pada hari Rabu, 23hb April 2008, bertempat di Majid Universiti Brunei Darussalam, bermula jam 2.00 petang. Bengkel ini diadakan dengan kerjasama Kementerian Hal Ehwal Ugama, Negara Brunei Darussalam. Bengkel ini adalah merupakan bengkel penerusan bagi Bengkel Pengurusan Jenazah dari segi teori yang telah pun diadakan di kampus sementara UNISSA pada 26hb Mac dan 9hb April 2008. Bengkel Pengurusan Jenazah berkenaan diadakan bertujuan untuk memberi pendedahan kepada mahasiswa/i UNISSA tentang tatacara pengurusan jenazah samada dari segi teori dan ‘amalinya, dan sekaligus mempersiapkan diri mereka untuk memberi sumbangan khidmat masyarakat di dalam pengurusan jenazah di masa-masa akan datang sekiranya diperlukan.

Page 22

Suasana semasa sesi penerangan teori pengurusan jenazah

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

BENGKEL PENGURUSAN JENAZAH

Sekitar bengkel amali pengurusan jenazah

Page 23: Al-Mishkah 3rd Issue

Page 23

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

qXqefي اYejfم اTcfا bUnTkugون ١٤٢٩T¨©¨g يY¨n b¨^¨�¨آ ªu¢� b^cdTefا b^kXqfا )KUPUSB ( b¨^¨u¨^¨�¨c¨z¨fا q¨هT¨c¨u¨fا [¨^¨g brgT�d .اo` b^fTcf ا�Ufد

Y¨Xq¨d o¨fT¨c¨d [¨d q¨^¨X�¨z¨g b¨r¨gT¨�ufا �wه o` T�^�iX ªرآTa q«و b¨c¨dT¨e¨fTg تT¤�fم واi�cfا b^ukV ¬آYd YXqd [d W^�kVو ،bcdTefا W¨ان أ�Y¨^¨¤¨` [¨g �Ta �fT\ [Xqfا Y^dج أT�fر اizآqfا Wان أ�Y^¤`

m^\Tunج إT�fا . b¨fi¨e¨fا o¨` T¨�¨^¨�iX لi®qg brgT�ufأت اqg q«و�fوxا . [¨g q^aYfا qU\ جT�fأواغ ا [d نi©zX T�^�iX WXY` نTوآ

T¨k¨�¨\راi¨� °¨Xن، وداT¨u¨c¨� [g انqaوأواغ ر ،ª^dج أواغ داT�fا o¨fTzd جT�fا ªkg . ±¨^¨�¨\ افY¨aوا� W¨XY¨�¨f² ا¨Xرq¨z¨g مT¨« q¨«و

[¨u¨�Y¨fا qU\ جT�fر اizآqfاه^� واYgوان إ [g ²^U� ذ وانTznxاor� جT�fا [Xراد.

�¨nTzfا o` تqr\ ozfا b^´Tjkfورة اqfا �fإ T�^�iX WXY` m و q«و mXYgإ [d٢٠٠٨ o¨` يT¨و�Y¨g نiX¬��Vو iXادYg ان رايiXد o` مbu Tcfا . brgT�ufغ اi�id نTم “ وآ�¨nل ا�T¨u� b_XTcd ” q¨«و

brgT�ufا o` µfT�fآ¬ اYufا T�^�iX WXY` زYأ�. Backstage prior to the competition

OcW O_NZXdرك IV^O_` aP اQ\]Gة

UNISSA Team during the final round Prize presentation Group photo with all the winners

Brainstorming session

A muzakarah session was held on 30th April 2008 at the Senate Room, Chancellor Hall, UBD. Among the objectives of the session is to discuss issues raised by the staff as well as to brief them on the content of the MOU that has recently been agreed and signed by UBD and UNISSA.

MUZAKARAH SESSION WITH THE RECTOR

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Page 24

Prof Datuk Dr Abdul Monir (left) and Assoc.

Professor Dr Arif Karkhi Abukhudairi

Dr Arif Abukhudairi: Since we had worked together in the eighties in Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, you Datuk have held several posts in Malaysia. Will you please talk to us about such appointments? Prof Datuk Dr Abdul Monir: I joined National University of Malaysia in October 1980 as a lecturer at the Faculty of Islamic Studies. Two years later I was appointed as co-coordinator, Centre for General Studies. I was given the responsibility to design Islamic Civilisation curriculum for the university required course, which finally adopted by the senate. After few years serving the department of Syariah I moved to new law faculty. There I involved in the curriculum development of the law faculty. During my service with the university and later with the Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (IKIM) I had been appointed to various committees at state and national as well as International levels. Among those committees were State Religious Councils of Pahang and Selangor, Fatwa Committee, Shariah Lawyers Qualifying Committees, Shariah Appeal Courts Judge of various States, Shariah Advisory Council of Bank Negara, Shariah Advisory Council of Securities Commission, Shariah Advisory Committee of Takaful National, Shariah Advisory Committee of May Bank Takaful, Shariah Advisory Committee of Oriental Bank, National Shariah and Civil Laws Technical Committee, Prime Minister Department, Malaysia Representative to Academy of Fiqh, OIC. In the academic field, the highest position as Professor at the Academy of Islamic Studies, University of Malaya and in the administration was former Director General, Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia. So far I have presented more than one hundred working papers in national and international seminar including conferences and seminar in Harvard University, USA, Islamabad Pakistan, Paris, Granada Spain, Cairo Egypt and Sanaa Yeman. I have also published few books and articles in a number of publication and journals.

DEVELOPMENT OF THE ACADEMIC PROGRAMS AT UNISSA Interview With UNISSA Academic Advisor

On Saturday 29th of March 2008, Associate Professor Dr Arif Karkhi Abukhudairi, Chief Editor of Al-Mishkah Newsletter, dropped at Datuk Professor Dr Abdul Monir Bin Yaccob’s office and had this enlightening talk with him about U N I S S A , I T S A C A D E M I C PROGRAMS AND FUTURE DEVELOPMENT.

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

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Page 25

Dr Arif Abukhudairi: You have worked in several universities in Malaysia, your country, including UKM, UIAM and UM. In your opinion, what distinguishes each one of these universities? And how can UNISSA benefit from the Malaysian experience in higher education? Prof Datuk Dr Abdul Monir: In Malaysia now there are about twenty public universities and university colleges. University of Malaya is the oldest and considered as the Malaysia prestigious university. There are also National University of Malaysia which uses Bahasa Malaysia as the medium of instruction and International Islamic University Malaysia which conducts their courses in English and some courses in Arabic. This university attracts many international students from Islamic countries. I was the first who enrolled as doctorate student at UIAM and very fortunate to be the first student who obtained Ph.D from the university. Universities in Malaysia now have been classify into Research University, Comprehensive university and focused university and going to have Apax university. University of Malaya and National University of Malaysia are both in the category of Research Universities and International Islamic University Malaysia is classify as comprehensive university.. We can observe from the medium of instruction in the universities which permit all streams of secondary education opportunities to join universities of their choice. Therefore, none for those who are eligible for higher education been deprived from getting place. This should be also the policy in this country. Each university has its own strength in teaching and research and as well as publication. In fact each university has allocation for research beside fund from certain ministries particularly Ministry of Higher Education. Usually MoHE provides fund for long term research which requires big amount of budget. There is also provision for Research Assistant with fix allowances including travel oversea. Normally a professor has to be head of research group. When I was with University of Malaya I lead two research groups. Universities in Malaysia are active in publication and have publication units. Each faculty and sometime each department has its own journal. One of elements in the Key Performance Index is publication. Research is another KPI requirement for academic staffs. UM and UKM will go after all their academic staffs for research projects. It is the funded research will take into account. Courses and programmes offered by International Islamic University Malaysia are holistic in nature where Islamic elements are obvious. Besides UIAM, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) also follows the same approach. Previously students from Arabic and Islamic streams had limited place to go for tertiary studies. With the establishment of these two universities students from Arabic and Islamic school are no longer confined to Islamic studies disciplines but may also enroll in other disciplines such laws, medicine etc. Universities like UM, UKM and UIAM each have its own library and besides main library there are also faculty libraries such as law library. Library is considered as soul for a university. The universities in Malaysia are now very particular with the academic staffs. It has become a policy of Research University to have 70% of it teaching staffs with Ph.D. This also has become the tendency of some universities in the Golf states. There are many aspects that UNISSA can learn and share with those universities, such as teaching staffs qualifications, research activities and allocation of research funds as well as Research Assistant , publication unit and medium of publication , holding conferences and seminars at national and international levels, exchange and collaboration in academic activities, staffs and students.

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

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Page 26

Dr Arif Abukhudairi: You have been working in Brunei Darussalam for a year now or probably more. What do you think of the higher education in this dynamic Malay Islamic Sultanate? Prof Datuk Dr Abdul Monir: I received offer to serve as academic advisor for a two years term contract. I accepted the offer to serve for Islam (Islamic University) and as well as Brunei Darussalam is an Islamic state. It is Islam that gave me courage and strength to come here and left my family behind. I have been here for almost one year. With the experiences I have as academician and administrator as well as from the visits to various universities in USA, Canada, England, Middle East, and Southeast Asia will contribute to my present task as academic advisor at UNISSA. I have submitted a report and recommendation on the present needs and future academic development of UNISSA. To understand better the education system and students population in the secondary schools I discussed the matter with Director General of Education. I had two meetings already with the honourable Minister of Education and from time to time having meeting with the deputy minister of education who is also the Rector of UNISSA. Recently I had a meeting with the then Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education who is now the Permanent Secretary in charge of higher education at the ministry. I had also meeting with the Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs and subsequently with the ministry’s Deputy Permanent Secretary and his senior officers. Beside these meetings I attended other important meetings. In Brunei Darussalam there are already two universities including UNISSA and one university college and one Institute of Technology and one College of Nursing. There are also private colleges. With the establishment of permanent secretary for higher education, it is hope that higher education will be more focused and well developed as other universities in the region and going global. Surely we are looking forward having new higher education policies and strategic plan in line with Brunei Vision 2035. Dr Arif Abukhudairi: One can see clearly that you have rich and valuable experience in Islamic higher education. What are the suggestions and ideas that you offer to our new Islamic university? Prof Datuk Dr Abdul Monir: Actually as I mentioned earlier I have submitted a report to the Rector. As you know, I am not in position to disclose the content of this report. Anyway for a new university like UNISSA there are many things need to be done and planned. Surely academic community needs conducive teaching and learning environment, adequate academic support services, opportunities for training, recruitment of high qualified and quality academic staffs, introducing advance technology in teaching and learning, have adequate fund for research and publication, active participation in national and international conferences and seminars, exchange of academic staffs and students by having MOU with selected universities abroad, dedicated supporting staffs, good library with modern facilities and technology and adhere to good governance and good practices. Dr Arif Abukhudairi: I have noticed, in several of your talks, that you have keen interest in research. What do you think of the recent research situation at Islamic universities today? And how can we enhance the academic research in UNISSA in particular?

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

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Page 27

Prof Datuk Dr Abdul Monir: Academic world is now talking about “universities ranking”. There are bodies doing the exercise such as The Times Higher Education Supplement, UK and Institute of Higher Education, University of Shanghai. At one time University of Malaya was among the top twenties of world class universities. Recently there was an effort to formulate Criteria and Procedure for Ranking of Universities for the OIC region. I met few of Malaysian delegates who participated in the Technical Committee when I was transit in Dubai. The Technical Committee has come out with Key Performance Indicators (KPI). One of the criterions is research. Higher Institutions in USA, Canada, Japan and Malaysia give focus on research activities. In Ottawa, Canada there is a Canadian Innovation Foundation. At Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) there is a strong research unit which manages and monitors research activities including financial aspects. Students are involved actively in research with the lecturers. In Malaysia the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Higher Education provide funds for research activities. Recently the Ministry of Higher Education has identified five local universities to be classified as research universities. These five universities are provided with more funds for research purposes. UNISSA is still in its formation stage. However it should not be the excuse for not doing research. Research should become a culture among the academician at all levels. Research and publication can measure the achievement of individual staff and at the same time can contribute toward creating good name for the institution. On the other hand it will increase knowledge and keep abreast with new development; otherwise you will be left far behind and out of context. UNISSA should give priority to research activities and allocate sufficient fund and encourage academic staffs. Surely it should be one of the criterions for promotion. Dr Arif Abukhudairi: His Majesty the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah has skillfully and accurately defined both the vision and message of the Sultan Sharif Ali Islamic University. He said that the establishment of this university is hoped to be a landmark of Islamic glory in this country and hopefully will also play a role producing Muslim scholars and intellectuals that the nation needs. What are the types of academic programs that can be a niche for UNISSA and which cannot be found in other universities either in this region or elsewhere? Prof Datuk Dr Abdul Monir: The aims and objectives of the university are vividly stipulated in the university concept paper. One of the aims is to produce credible intellectuals and ulama within the spirit of Melayu Islam Beraja based on the teaching of Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah and Madhab Shafie. In fact the direction of UNISSA is made clear in several Royal Titahs by His Highness the Sultan and Yang Di Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam on various occasions. The development of academic programs must align with the National Development Plan and the Ministry of Education Strategic Plan and as well as the Brunei Vision 2035. UNISSA is a new university. There is advantage of being new if willing to learn from other higher institutions experiences. As a matter of policy medium of instruction in public university normally aligns to national language policy. However UNISSA is in the unique position, where programs are offered in either English or Arabic with the exception on few courses in Malay such as MIB. UNISSA gives extra emphasis on both English and Arabic. For those who take Islamic studies the medium is Arabic and for other programs is English. If this policy is successful graduates from UNISSA can enter global market. With this image UNISSA can be very attractive not only to local student but to international students as well.

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH

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With the establishment of the Research Centre for Madhab Shafii, it will give strength as it is the only centre of that kind ever established in the region. It can attract researchers to benefit from the program. As for most of the programs they are common. In developed countries where the population is big similar programs such as law and biotechnology and social science and medicine are being studied in a number of public universities and duplication in program is no issue. Dr Arif Abukhudairi: As UNISSA academic advisor, how do you see the current academic programs offered at this new university? And what new educational programs you suggest that UNISSA can offer in the future? Prof Datuk Dr Abdul Monir: As it is now UNISSA has established four faculties. Each faculty offers two programs except faculty of Business and Science Management which offers only one program. Law program is scheduled for the 2008/2009 academic year. This is the first law program offered in Brunei Darussalam. This is a new development in legal education in this country. Attorney General Chamber and Law Society welcome the program. Attorney General when he was speaking during the LEGAL Year 2008 appreciated UNISSA effort to introduce law course in Brunei Darussalam. With the existing programs there are rooms for initiating new programs. In fact each faculty should offer at least two programs. Besides offering degree courses UNISSA should also consider offering more diploma courses. Having four faculties and by next year with Law Faculty is a good start for UNISSA. In near future UNISSA may also consider to establish at least two faculties – Faculty of Applied Science and Faculty of Communication and Humanities. This can include in the UNISSA five years academic planning. Space or building should not be the obstacle for academic development. I can see many new building coming up in the town. Some universities in Malaysia established in the city and even in Europe and Amer-ica and also in the Middle East Higher education has become global business and in academic world there are no more borders. There seem to be a crisis in getting quality and qualified academic staff. Higher institution in Brunei should come with plan to overcome this crisis. I therefore propose to UNISSA to organise a national seminar on higher education to meet the Brunei Vision 2035.

*****

òbÙ������“¾a TL-MISHKAH