Kangar: Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin (UniSIRAJ) is expected to offer a Master’s in Muamalat and Islamic Finance, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Halal Management, beginning February next year. UniSIRAJ vice-chancellor, Prof Dr Muhamad Rozaimi Ramle, said the university is currently awaiting approval from the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) to offer the programmes.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the hadith programme, one of the university’s niche areas, is also in high demand. The university is reviewing it for potential new pathways at the diploma, master’s and doctoral levels. The announcement was made after the university’s 8th convocation ceremony, which was graced by the Raja Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail, who is also the UniSIRAJ Chancellor.

A total of 361 graduates received their diplomas and degrees, marking them as the first cohort to graduate under the UniSIRAJ name after its proclamation as the state’s new beacon of knowledge by the Raja of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail. UniSIRAJ was formerly known as Kolej Universiti Islam Perlis (KUIPs) and was officially upgraded to a full-fledged university on November 15, 2024.

Meanwhile, Muhamad Rozaimi highlighted the university’s graduate employability rate, which hit 94.1 percent last year. This figure underscores the high market value, skills, and competence of its graduates. He also mentioned the development of a permanent campus in Sungai Chuchuh, Padang Besar, with preliminary land acquisition being carried out by the Perlis Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIPs).

The initial plan is to develop a campus with a 4,800-student capacity. However, this development depends on MAIPs as the parent agency. The university is expected to relocate to the MAIPs building in Pauh, Arau, at the end of next year as a temporary location during the construction of the permanent campus.