Kuala lumpur: The Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (IKIM) and the Malaysian Institute of Integrity (IIM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen strategic cooperation in promoting a culture of integrity, ethics, and good governance, as well as human capital development based on Islamic values.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the MoU was signed by IKIM Director-General Associate Professor Datuk Dr Mohamed Azam Mohamed Adil and IIM president and chief executive officer Datuk Seri Noridah Abdul Rahim, representing their respective institutions. The signing ceremony was witnessed by IKIM chairman Professor Emeritus Datuk Dr Mohd Yusof Othman and IIM board member Datuk Seri Mustafar Ali.
Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Mohamed Azam emphasized the importance of the inaugural collaboration between the two institutions in broadening the understanding and practice of integrity across the public and private sectors. He highlighted that the cooperation aligns with IKIM's objective of fostering a true understanding of Islam and is crucial for embedding a culture of integrity in workplaces.
Mohamed Azam noted that this historic occasion marks the first time an MoU has been signed between the two institutions, despite their close proximity. The collaboration is expected to pave the way for various initiatives, including programmes, seminars, workshops, book publications, and social media content like short videos to educate the public.
Additionally, Mohamed Azam revealed plans for launching a book on integrity and utilizing IKIM's media platforms, including Radio IKIM FM and TVIKIM, to disseminate integrity messages and address societal misconduct issues.
Mohd Yusof added that addressing integrity challenges in society requires not only compliance and enforcement mechanisms but also the cultivation of human values, attitudes, and character. He pointed out that IKIM brings strengths in Islamic thought, knowledge, and civilization, while IIM has expertise in fostering a culture of integrity and preventing corruption. The collaboration aims to integrate system development with character building.