On 31 July 2024, the Faculty of Islamic Sciences at PSU Pattani Campus hosted the 13th International Conference on Islam in the Malay World (ICON – IMAD), themed "Unity and Development: The Role of Islam in the Malay World for Peaceful Coexistence and Sustainable Progress." This conference provided a vital platform for scholars from the Malay world to exchange ideas, foster academic and research collaborations, and develop new knowledge and innovations. The event was chaired by Dr. Phetdao Tohmina, M.D., advisor to the Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, with a welcome speech delivered by Asst. Prof. Dr. Thakerng Wongsirichot, Vice President for Academic and International Affairs, PSU. The conference was participated from university administrators and academicians from Universiti Malaya, Sultan Sharif Ali University of Brunei Darussalam, and UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung University, Indonesia, and was held at the Faculty of Islamic Sciences, PSU, Pattani Campus.
The event also featured a panel discussion led by experienced scholars who explored research and practical approaches to the relationship between Islam's role and Malay cultural heritage. The panel included insights from Prof. Dr. Kanok Wongtrangan and Prof. Dr. Ibrahim Narongraksakhet, who introduced the role of ICESCO in the Malay world. The seminar concluded with a summary by Asst. Prof. Dr. Muhammadroflee Waehama. Additionally, the event included the presentation of Paper Awards and the ceremonial handing over of the ICON – IMAD flag to Brunei Darussalam, the host of the next conference.
“PSU, now recognized as a National Research University, has organized this international seminar in collaboration with leading global partners. These partners include the Faculty of Islamic Sciences at PSU Pattani Campus, Universiti Malaya (UM), the Postgraduate Program at Universitas Islam Negeri Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung (UIN Bandung), and the Faculty of Usuluddin at Sultan Sharif Ali Islamic University (UNISSA). The seminar aims to enhance international academic cooperation and exchange knowledge on the role of the Malay world in fostering unity and development, especially in the context of cultural and religious diversity. Furthermore, it seeks to establish collaborative networks with prominent international institutions to advance research and development and discuss strategies for creating a sustainable society”, Dr. Thakerng said.