Assalamua’laikum warahmatuLlahi wabarakatuh.
It is my great pleasure to welcome distinguished leaders, scholars, researchers, policymakers, professionals, and participants from around the world to the 8th World Conference on Islamic Thought and Civilization (WCIT2026). On behalf of Universiti Sultan Azlan Shah (USAS), I wish to express our deepest gratitude to DYMM Paduka Seri Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah ibni Almarhum Sultan Azlan Muhibbuddin Shah Al-Maghfur-lah for His Royal Highness’s unwavering patronage of the WCIT series since its inception.
We convene at a pivotal moment in history. The world today is marked by geopolitical uncertainty, prolonged conflicts, humanitarian crises, economic volatility, and shifting global power dynamics. These developments remind us that history often repeats itself, compelling us not only to observe these changes but also to respond with wisdom, resilience, and collective responsibility.
Against this backdrop, WCIT2026 embraces the theme “Where Everyone Matters: Pride & Unity in Islam.” It is a call for the Muslim Ummah to reflect on its present condition, strengthen its internal resilience, and reaffirm its shared purpose. The challenges confronting the Muslim World cannot be resolved solely through external intervention; they require sincere self-reflection, renewed commitment, and meaningful cooperation.
Recent global events have demonstrated that lasting security and progress cannot depend entirely on the interests or promises of others. The Muslim World must strengthen its own capacities while remaining an active and constructive partner in the international community. Our greatest strength lies in our shared faith, values, and civilisational heritage. While we celebrate our diversity, we must not allow superficial differences to overshadow the principles that unite us; justice, compassion, knowledge, integrity, and mutual respect.
The five sub-themes of WCIT2026 – Good Governance and Political Stability; The Economy: Development and Cooperation; Education Matters: Social Empowerment; Public Health: Hygiene and Sanitation; and National Integrity and Security, provide practical avenues for translating these ideals into action. The conference offers a platform for scholars, experts, and practitioners to exchange ideas, share best practices, and develop solutions that contribute to the advancement of the Muslim World and humanity.
On behalf of the Organising Committee, I extend my sincere appreciation to YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia; YB Dato’ Seri Diraja Dr. Zambry Abd Kadir, Minister of Higher Education; YAB Dato’ Seri Saarani Mohamad, Menteri Besar of Perak; the Government of the State of Perak, our sponsors, strategic partners, distinguished speakers, presenters, volunteers, and organising committee for their invaluable support.
May WCIT2026 inspire lasting partnerships, meaningful dialogue, and practical initiatives that contribute to a more united, peaceful, and prosperous future for the Muslim World and humanity.
Thank you.
