Putrajaya:After a hiatus of 19 years, Malaysia is once again hosting the 27th session of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy (IIFA). The event, scheduled to take place from November 30 to December 3, will bring together approximately 250 prominent Islamic scholars from member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) director-general, Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee, stated that the conference, to be held at a hotel in Putrajaya, aims to provide a platform for scholarly discussions on various contemporary issues impacting the Muslim community. Malaysia last hosted the conference in 2007, and this year's event offers the country an opportunity to play a significant role in international discourse on fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence).
Dr Sirajuddin highlighted that 139 papers will be discussed across seven scientific sessions covering key areas. Experts' findings and views will be consolidated into joint resolutions. The discussions will address issues such as the use of artificial intelligence (AI) from a Syariah perspective, advances in medical technology, family matters, and Fiqh Ta'ayush, which promotes harmony among people of different religions, races, and ethnic backgrounds.
He noted that Malaysia's selection as the host reflects IIFA's confidence in the country's ability to serve as a model of harmony among its diverse communities. Malaysia, home to people of various races and religions, exemplifies peaceful coexistence, which the country intends to showcase to the world.
The conference's findings and resolutions are expected to be deliberated by the Muzakarah Committee of the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs (MKI) before being presented to the Conference of Rulers for their consent. Notable international figures, including IIFA chairman Sheikh Dr Saleh Abdullah Humaid and secretary-general Professor Datuk Dr Koutoub Moustapha Sano, are expected to attend. Additionally, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan are scheduled to be present at the closing ceremony on December 3. State muftis, academics, and former muftis will also represent Malaysia at the conference.