By Daniel Fadzlan Bin Abdullah
On October 27, 2024, members of the QIU Muslim Society joined students from various backgrounds at the Meet and Greet International programme held at Putrajaya Lake Club. Organized to foster unity within the Muslim Ummah or community to strengthen international connections among Malaysian university students, the event highlighted a universal spirit of solidarity and collective action that transcended cultural and national boundaries.
Students from various institutions, including Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), Universiti Malaya (UM), Universiti Putra Malaysia and Mahsa University attended the event. The diverse representation enriched discussions, offering multiple perspectives on challenges faced by Muslim students from different academic settings, including some students from as far away as Somalia and India. The program also touched on current issues affecting the Muslim ummah, such as the plight and suffering of Palestinians.
The day began with an inspiring talk by Sister Siti Nabihah Zakaria, a staunch advocate for community service who has toured and volunteered in the war-torn regions of the Middle East including Syria and Palestine. Her session encouraged attendees to reflect on their shared Muslim identity and to utilize their diverse skills and backgrounds to contribute to the global development and prosperity of the Muslim ummah. Her words resonated deeply, emphasizing how faith, unity and shared values could drive impactful change despite our differences.
The event’s unity theme was further reinforced through networking sessions connecting students from universities nationwide. These sessions enabled participants to exchange ideas, forge friendships, and explore potential collaborations with universities and other Muslims. A highlight was the participation of Yosh International, a student-led organization known for promoting cross-cultural understanding and support among international students. Their presence brought a fresh perspective, as they shared insights on how Muslim communities from different regions could work together to address shared challenges.
After the sharing sessions, the QIU Muslim Society proceeded to the Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin Mosque in Putrajaya for congregational Zuhr prayers, symbolizing spiritual unity. Following prayers, they participated in a kayaking session to express solidarity with the people of Palestine. This thoughtful activity created awareness around the importance of supporting global causes, fostering teamwork, and reinforcing community spirit globally.
As the day concluded, the QIU Muslim Society gathered at Komunal Cafe in Publika for a relaxed coffee session, allowing participants to bond, reflect on their experiences, and discuss ways to continue their community involvement in the university and daily lives.
Overall, the Meet and Greet International program, organized by Yosh MyFundAction, was a meaningful experience. It provided QIU Muslim Society members with opportunities for insightful discussions, expressions of solidarity for causes beyond borders, and the chance to form lasting connections. Through an emphasis on the shared values of empathy, unity, and community service shared amongst Muslims, the event fostered a sense of belonging and purpose, reminding attendees of the strength and achievements the Muslim ummah can achieve when united for a common cause.
