Malé, Maldives – In a strategic move to strengthen global networks, the Rector of UIN Alauddin Makassar, Prof. Hamdan Juhannis, MA, PhD, made an official visit to the Maldives on Thursday, October 3, 2024. The visit aimed to explore opportunities for collaboration in education, academic publications, institutional development, and the halal industry.
This initiative is part of the “Pancacita Rektor” program, focusing on enhancing international partnerships. During this inaugural visit, Prof. Hamdan and his delegation engaged with three key institutions in the Maldives: the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, the Maldives’ Council of Scholars (Majlis Ulama), and the Islamic University of Maldives.
At 11:00 AM local time, the UIN Alauddin delegation, which included the Dean of the Faculty of Sharia and Law (FSH), Dr. H. Abd Rauf Muhammad Amin, Lc. MA, and the Head of AUPK Bureau, Suleman Awad, were warmly welcomed by the Maldives’ Minister of Islamic Affairs, His Excellency Dr. Muhammad Syahim Ali Said.
In the meeting, Minister Syahim Ali Said expressed enthusiasm for the visit and welcomed collaboration in various sectors, including education and training. He highlighted the common religious traditions shared by Indonesia and the Maldives, both deeply rooted in the Shafi’i school of thought.
Prof. Hamdan expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and introduced UIN Alauddin’s flagship academic programs. He also invited the Maldives’ Ministry of Islamic Affairs to collaborate in the development of education and religious training.
As part of the collaboration, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs plans to send 20 Maldivian imams to UIN Alauddin Makassar for capacity-building training, a proposal that was well-received by Prof. Hamdan.
Additionally, Dr. H. Abd Rauf Muhammad Amin, Dean of FSH, discussed halal industry policies with Minister Syahim Ali Said. This discussion opened further opportunities for cooperation in the halal sector, which is vital for both nations.
After the productive meeting, the atmosphere became more relaxed with personal stories and humor, followed by a group photo session. The Rector’s delegation then continued their visit to the Islamic University of Maldives to explore further collaboration opportunities.
