Src Highlights - Volume 8

INTERNATIONAL ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY MALAYSIA

R Our previous SRC Highlights (7th Volume) have certainly stirred up many responses from the administrative authorities. Due to this, a special session was set up by Mdm. Sakinah Jusoh, Assistant Director of the Mahallat Administration & Coordination Unit, Student Affairs Division. The meeting, chaired by Mdm. Noraini Ahmad, Covering Director of Student Affairs Division, was held at the multi-purpose hall of the Food, Facilities and Services Unit (FFSU) on 10th of June 2005. The aim of the session was to allow the SRC, MRC members of the male mahallat, and pertinent authorities to dicuss on issues and problems at the male mahallat. Here are the resolutions that we have achieved. They are categorised according to their corresponding problems and issues. Mahallat Cleanliness and Facilities Management In response to the cleanliness and facility dilemma, several suggestions were raised: 1 ) Br. Ezran Hashim, Facility Manager from IIUM Properties Sdn. Bhd. (IP), advises that students should know how to make reports when there is a problem. A simple thing, but yet a practice that many do not take into account seriously. An officer from mahallah elaborated more on this and explained its step-by-step procedure: • Before lodging a report, take note of the place or building of which the problem is located. In some mahallat, the code for each unit of facility (e.g. shower room, toilet, sink, etc.) is already given. • Next, report to the mahallah office. At this point you are required to fill in a form or if not, just report straight to the officer. Your report will be identified by a unique work order number. Therefore, please request for the work order number should you feel the necessity to follow-up your report. 2 ) The MRC of Mahallah Uthman and Bilal aired their suggestion of conducting an awareness campaign to educate students on SRC HIGHLIGHTS VOLUME 8 (Bumper Edition)

VOLUME 8 (Bumper Edition) |

SEMESTER 1, 2005/2006

E S P O N S E S ESOLUTIONS

&

PROBLEMS AT MAHALLAT (PART 2)

Student leaders and administrative authorities trying to reach a consensus on how to resolve problems at the male mahallat. The discussion opened up a chance to hear the reality of the problem from both sides.

the right and proper way of using the available facilities at mahallah. The rational behind this is to instill the sense of belonging and responsibility amongst students. 3 ) Representatives from Mahallah Uthman also propose that every mahallah should prepare a checklist before students checkout from their rooms at the end of the semester. This will allow the mahallah administration to know what needs to get fixed over the holidays. 4 ) There was also concern on using the TV rooms as storage rooms during vacation. The mahallah administration has agreed not to use them as storage rooms in the future since doing so would prohibit students who take short semesters from using the rooms. 5 ) A recommendation came from the SRC that the MRC members should set up a duty roster to be in the office. At the same time,

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they can also watch around to monitor their respective mahallah. As representatives from each mahallah, it was pointed out that the MRC should also collaborate with the mahallah administration to ensure that the condition and safety of facilities at hand are being watched properly. Having the MRC members available at their office would enable residents to forward their concerns any time for it is the MRC who has the direct link with Mahallah administration. Thus, besides the administrative authorities, there would always be the MRC of whom the students can turn to. 6 ) An issue was also raised pertaining to the fact of having female cleaners/workers at the brothers’ mahallat and having male workers/cleaners at the sisters’ mahallat. In regard to this, Br. Ezran from IP has responded that the current cleaner workforce is dominated mostly by female

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PROBLEMS AT MAHALLAT, Part 2 (continued from page 1) workers. Having cleaners of the opposite gender wandering around the buildings of mahallah is surely an uncomfortable sight. For this reason, the MRC of Mahallah Uthman has put forward a suggestion that every mahallah should prepare a timetable stating the time the cleaners would do their work so that residents can avoid bumping into them at the wrong time. 7 ) A suggestion also came forward from the MRC of Mahallah Al-Faruq saying that communication between students and the mahallah administrative authorities should be improved. Residents of mahallah should also take note of the notices and announcements made by mahallah. It is therefore a joint-responsibility of both students and the administrative authorities to ensure that the communication barrier is broken down. Security Much has been debated about the status of security at the brothers’ mahallat. Br. Abd. Wahab Hj. Zawawi, Officer of the Security Management, has told us that during Friday prayers, they deploy sister security guards to patrol on vehicles around the areas of the brothers’ mahallat. Student leaders at the meeting were not convinced that the practice would end or at least reduce the number of

robbery cases. What is more, there still remains a question as to who are the real culprits behind these theft cases. Could they be due to someone outside the University? Or are they merely the doings of individuals who live in the campus/mahallah itself? Most residents who have suffered the tragedy of having their rooms robbed claim that there is no way an outside party could have done it. No solid evidence can proof this but we advise students to be cautious of both. Further arrangements must be made not just with the Security management but also IIUM Properties in order to curb the problem seriously. Fixing grills at the the ground floor of every block in Mahallah Uthman recently have certainly gained a positive response from students. Measures should be taken to securely seal the rooms from any possibility of them being penetrated from the outside. However, it is reminded that besides authorities, students should also play their role in securing their rooms. Parking Spaces One of the concerns which was raised included the issue of parking spaces in mahallat. Although several suggestions were voiced out, Br. Abd. Wahab from Security has agreed to hold a special meeting on this matter at a yet to be determined date.

CUSTOMER COMPLAINT BY ZONE - MAY 2005 1400 1200 278 1000

No. of W.O.

106

800 600

Work In Progress Closed

965 801

400 200 69

0

CX1

27 127

28 132

7

CX2

M1

CX3

M2

Zone Figure 1

Statistics Provided by IIUM Properties Sdn. Bhd.

CUSTOMER COMPLAINT WORK ORDER - JOB TURNAROUND FOR ALL ZONES - MAY 2005 900 789

800 700

No. of W.O.

600 500 385

400 300 200 100 0

206

174

Same

Figure 2 SRC HIGHLIGHTS VOLUME 8 (Bumper Edition)

1

2

56

78

63

3

4

5

109 6

Day

106 7

49

41

38

8

9

10

>10

Statistics Provided by IIUM Properties Sdn. Bhd.

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Accountability and Responsibility This whole issue related to IIUM’s mahallat is not new to us. All the while, it has always been a predictable scenario; students complain to the authorities and when they see no changes being done, the authorities are put to blame. In the meanwhile, it is a different story when one views himself in the shoes of mahallah administration. An officer from Mahallah Uthman questions the proper usage of facilities amongst students. It was implied that students themselves were not particularly civic minded. A case in point was highlighted stating that students fail to turn off the fan when it was not being used. It was even claimed that in the worst case, fans would be turned on right from the moment their dwellers were admitted to the university until the day for graduation! The above is one of several cases to illustrate some aspects of the students’ attitude. It then comes to the point that students should be educated and informed on the right and proper use of facilities at mahallat. In other words, students should have a mindset of being accountable and responsible for the well-being of their mahallah. Not all students should be blamed though. There is a few whose mind needs to be set straight, that is, those who think that cleaners are the ones who hold the sole responsibility of keeping the campus clean. Besides students, the role of administration is also crucial. Figure 1 shows the number of complaints received for the month of May 2005 according to zones and their respective progress. The IP management identifies areas in the Gombak Campus by five zones namely CX1 (KAED, ENGINEERING, SCIENCE, CAC, CEE), CX2 (Rectory, CELPAD, Admin. Building, ITD, KICT, IRK, Education, HS, Auditorium, Mosque), CX3 (AIKOL, KENMS, Management Centre, Library, Research Centre, Nescafe Kiosk, Male Sports Complex), M1 (mahallat Shafiyyah, Ameenah, Ali, Bilal, As-Siddiq, Uthman, and Al-Faruq), and M2 (mahallat Maryam, Haleemah, Asma’, Hafsa, Sumayyah, and Nusaybah, Female Sports Complex). What can be inferred here is that the IP is doing all their best to attend to these complaints of which amount to 2094. Figure 2 shows the number of job turnarounds (the time it takes to complete a work order) for the month of May 2005. One of IP’s targets in its key performance indicator is to resolve 50% of complaint within the same day. However, we have here approximately 38% of the work orders being resolved on the same day and the rest being completed a day later. Still, statistics do not necessarily tell you the whole story. Not all problems can be solved in one day. All in all, the whole point of it is clear. No matter what position one is in IIUM, be it a student or an administrative authority, problems at mahallat are collective responsibilities to be shouldered and held accountable by all.

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GET TO KNOW

SILAT CEKAK USTAZ HANAFI

Members of the ‘Kelab Seni Silat Cekak Ustaz Hanafi Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia’..

One of the martial art societies in this university is the Seni Silat Cekak Ustaz Hanafi Club. It has been ten years since this club was first established in IIUM. Other than performing demonstrations and teaching the silat techniques, this club endeavours to reach out to students with many activities. Actively going in IIUM, this outstanding club has been vibrant enough to achieve the media’s attention in magazines and newspapers nationwide. Moreover, with the linkage of Seni Silat Cekak Ustaz Hanafi Malaysia Society nationally, graduating students can continue learning silat even after graduating from IIUM.

As one of the branches for Seni Silat Cekak Ustaz Hanafi Malaysia Society, they were involve in celebrating “Gemilang 40 Tahun Silat Cekak Hanafi” this year. Amazingly, they also participated to achieve the Malaysia’s Book of Record for “The Largest Participation in Silat Performance” in 2001 and will participate again to break this record this September. IIUM has also showered them with awards such as the award for ‘The Most Active Martial Arts and Sports Based Society’ in IIUM Student Award 2002 and 2003. This club hopes for more support from IIUM students and staff. The club, currently

requesting for an operation room, will represent IIUM in ‘Pertandingan Waja Diri Nasional’ on the 3rd and 4th of September 2005. Let us all hope and pray that they be determined to achieve victory! Students who are interested to join the club may call either one of these contact persons: Mohd Nor Azman Muhamad Amin (017-372 5685) Zarina Mohamad @ Zahari (019-618 4520) Mohd Firdaus Che Hadzir (012-674 4531)

EVENTS

KIDS OF THE WORLD 2005 From the 27th until the 30th of May, the Student’s Representative Council of IIUM had organized a unique event called Kids of the World 2005 (KOTW ’05). This event which offered many interesting and beneficial programmes aimed at creating awareness on violence towards children and also to provide adequate exposure to children concerning their own rights and safety. An exhibition which began on the 24th of May until the closing day was also held in conjunction with this occasion. Among the highlights of Kids of the World were the ‘Kids Carnival’ and a conference discussing the issue of ‘Ensuring the Prosperity of Our Future Generation.’ Speakers from a few Non-Governmental organizations (NGOs), namely the Penang Consumer Association, AWAM and others were invited to give their views on this matter. Other sub-programmes included were the Opening Ceremony, Speaker’s Corner, 3 A’s Kids, Cultural Night, and also the grand Closing Ceremony and Charity Dinner. Children from various schools, mainly from around Kuala Lumpur and Selangor were invited to SRC HIGHLIGHTS VOLUME 8 (Bumper Edition)

participate and be a part of this great event. In order to achieve its aims, the organizing committee went a step further by opening the gates of IIUM to the public community in hope that they too, would benefit from this event. KOTW ‘05 was widely publicized especially to the public and thankfully, the response received was encouraging. During the closing ceremony, Ustaz Hamidon Abdul Hamid, Deputy Rector of Student Affairs and Alumni, expressed his recognition for the programme and hoped that such activities related to community service can be further organised in the future. We have also received a positive response from the Malaysian Chinese Muslim Association (MACMA) who is willing to collaborate with us again. The programme, though successful in one hand, was also flawed on the other. As the main organiser for the programme, the SRC would like to apologise for the number of shortcomings that has occurred. It has been duly revised that there were certain things that could have been done better. We would like to remind

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School children presenting a choral speaking during the opening ceremony of Kids of the World ‘05 programme. The audience were absolutely intrigued by their performance.

ourselves and the rest of our committee that whatever mistakes that may have happened should be taken into account as a reminder for all of us to improve. Overall, this event was a success and it served as a platform for the IIUM community to show to the world that we students do have a caring side to match our intelligence. Hopefully, such event will continue to be organized in years to come and will invite the blessings of Allah the Almighty, InsyaAllah.

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PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS

Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh. Wishes of Ukhuwwah and blessings of Friendship to the whole community of IIUM. Brothers and sisters in Islam, it is because of the Grace and Mercy of Allah S.W.T that we are still able to live harmoniously together in this Garden of Knowledge and Virtue regardless of our many differences. We are also blessed to be able to continue our struggle in gaining knowledge, all with the one aim of obtaining His Blessings both in this life and the Hereafter. This campus is especially designed

to promote the sense of ukhuwwah Islamiyyah and brotherhood among its community and to be the centre of all virtues that in line with Shari’ah. It is very heartbreaking to witness the situation of the younger generations, especially the teenagers nowadays. It seems that what was once considered bad has now become worse and even so, no effective actions has ever been taken to curb the bad attitudes which are the pride of these teenagers. These teens are now creating new trends, styles and fashions and are getting themselves lost in their own ‘creative world’ which is far from the positive moral deeds that have been emphasized in the Qur’an and taught by our beloved Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h). It makes us wonder, are these the future leaders that will one day lead our religion, ummah and nation towards glory? If such a problem remains unsolved, we will never be able to produce the next Ibn Sina to help us find the cure for cancer and AIDS and we will never be able recapture the grandeur of Islam that was once brought by the Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h) and the rightly-guided caliphs.

SPEAK UP!

EVENTS

PARAMOTOR Remember our paramotor friends who crossed the Straits of Malacca from Malacca to Dumai? An appreciation ceremony and Malaysia Book of Records certificate presentation was held for them on 13th June, 2005. The occasion was organised at the Banquet Hall of the Administration Building and was attended by several VIPs who were involved in the paramotor Malacca-Dumai sea crossing challenge. Among them were Lt. Col. Basir Abd. Rahman, president of the Malaysian Paramotor Association (MPA), and Tuan Hj. Shaari who represented the Ministry of Youth and Sports. The ceremony began with a speech from Mohd. Haris Fanawi, a first year KENMS student, who thanked Lt. Col. Basir for all his worthwhile effort in training the paramotor team to the extent of having finally achieve a recognition in the Malaysia Book of Records. He also recalled his tough experience of having to go through three crashes before the actual attempt to Dumai. Nevertheless, with support from friends and IIUM staff, the ordeal did not deter him to proceed and finally accomplish a very proud achievement. Besides Haris, other high-flyers who succeeded were Safry Ezan Saifuddin, a fourth year Engineering student, and Nor Hidayah from the Municipal Council of Selayang. Speaking also at the ceremony, Lt. Col. Basir expressed his appreciation to IIUM for making this sport possible in the University. The initial objective of establishing the Malaysian Paramotor Association was to encourage SRC HIGHLIGHTS VOLUME 8 (Bumper Edition)

With the Muslims’ lives slaughtered so easily, the Qur’an largely degraded by prison wardens, and the threat to demolish the Al-Aqsa Mosque which is one of the most important symbols of Islam, these should open our eyes and make us realize that the time has come for us to start reforming ourselves in order to help our ummah. This should be done firstly by breaking the barrier between all the Muslims by putting aside all our differences. Let us all begin by changing the routines of our everyday lives. Start by giving salam to each other everywhere we go and by filling in those empty saff in our mosques. InsyaAllah, these small changes will one day, lead us to a better world, a world filled with love. Last but not least, on behalf of the SRC family, we would like to welcome all the new intakes to this Garden of Knowledge and Virtue. Grab all the opportunities you can whilst studying here for there is an abundant of things that IIUM offers. May success and blessings be bestowed upon all of you! MOHAMAD ZARIFI MOHAMAD DAUD President

HIGH-FLYERS

Academic-based versus cultural-based activities and achievements: Which one is being given more priority? “In my opinion, both cultural and academic based achievements should be given the same amount of limelight Nor Hallimatu Saadiah and treatment as Bt Shamsuddin, both fields aim at 1st year, History glorifying IIUM’s name in the eyes of the world”

The trio showing their Malaysia Book of Records certificate. From left: Safry Ezan (Engine), Nor Hidayah (from Municipal Council of Selayang), and Haris Fanawi (KENMS).

participation among youths to enter the sport. The rector of IIUM, Prof. Dr. Mohd. Kamal Hassan also gave his word on the team’s achievement. He was glad that the team made it for the record. The accomplishment was somehow an advancement in the form of breaking through mental barriers. Over the last few months, IIUM broke the intellectual barrier with Melati Abdul Hamid being declared as the world’s best oralist. On our part, the Student’s Representative Council would like to congratulate the paramotor team for their incredible achievement. Flying high in the sky is certainly not a job for the faint-hearted. We hope that this accomplishment will also be followed by many other accomplishments later on. Congratulations again to our high-flyers!

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Wan Abdul Matiin B. Wan Abdul Rahim Kamil, 1st year, Biotech

“I don’t think that this should be an issue as I see that the university has provided enough channels for both cultural and academic based activities to develop.”

“Equal emphasis is what we want, thus I believe that cultural events should also share the spotlight. On the other hand, Siti Saridah since IIUM bears the Bt. Adenan, Islamic banner, 1st year, BENL some people might think that it is more appropriate to highlight our academic events and achievements rather than our cultural counterparts.”

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SRC: UP, CLOSE, AND PERSONAL NAME: Rosdam Hanabi Hj Mohamed POST: Chairperson Dakwah & Training Secretariat MATRIC NO.: 0130297 ROOM NO.: ALI F 3.8

NAME: Md Zuwairi Md Safar POST: Co-Chairperson Dakwah & Training Secretariat MATRIC NO.: 0312113 ROOM NO.: UTHMAN C1.1

NAME: Muhammad Faheem Mohd Ezani POST: Chairperson Publication & Multimedia Secretariat MATRIC NO.: 0312649

COURSE: RK/4 ADDRESS: Lot 1834 Tmn Hj Ali, Ketereh 16450 Kota Bharu, Kelantan. ORIGIN: Kota Bharu, Kelantan. (MALAYSIA) SIBLINGS: 2 out of 4 EMAIL: [email protected] CONTACT NO.: 019-345 8678/012-961 9002 WORDS OF WISDOM: “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail..” AIMS: • To coordinate programmes in developing student’s skill to be a good leader • To promote biah solehah in campus • To create sense of awareness in seeking Islamic knowledge in order to succeed in worldly life and hereafter • To cooperate with all students and administrators in promoting Islamic practice in our life • To represent IRK students’ voice and to take care of their welfare

COURSE: ARCH/2 ADDRESS: Jalan Abdullah, Kg. Permatang Pasir, Bukit Pasir, 84300 Muar, Johor. ORIGIN: Muar, Johore. (MALAYSIA) SIBLINGS: 1 out of 4 EMAIL: [email protected] CONTACT NO.: 013-370 1907 WORDS OF WISDOM: “Pushing the limits!” AIMS: • To represent KAED students in voicing out their issues of concern • To enhance leadership and interpersonal skill among male students in IIUM • To strengthen the scope of integration among IIUM students in building the bridge of brotherhood regardless of their background

ROOM NO.: UTHMAN D 4.3 COURSE: ICT/3 ADDRESS: No. 30, Jalan 4/11F, Fasa 4 Tambahan, 46350 Bdr. Baru Bangi, Selangor. ORIGIN: Selangor (MALAYSIA) SIBLINGS: 1 out of 4 EMAIL: [email protected] CONTACT NO.: 016-293 6592 WORDS OF WISDOM: “Live life so completely that when death comes to you like a thief in the night, there will be nothing for him to steal..” AIMS: • To represent students from the Kulliyyah of ICT and to respond accordingly to their concern and thus take actions to resolve them • To improve and intensify the use of IT as a means for communication, thereby enhancing responsiveness between the SRC and students of this university • To be susceptible towards the standards of students’ welfare and report them by means of publication

CONTACT NO.: NAME: 012-222 4941 Abdul Rahman WORDS OF WISDOM: Abdul Karem “The world is a dangerous place. Not POST: because of the people who are evil; Co-Chairperson but because of the people who don’t Publication & do anything about it..” Multimedia AIMS: Secretariat • To represent students of KICT with the MATRIC NO.: aim to voice out matters pertaining to 0229147 their welfare and to incorporate ICT ROOM NO.: into the works and procedures Staying Outside involved in the SRC Campus COURSE: ICT/3 • To represent the international students ADDRESS: • To promote integration among local B-15-1, Idaman Sutera, and international students. Thus, No. 2, Jln 13/21D, fostering the spirit of Islamic Off Jalan Ibukota Kanan, brotherhood. 53100 Kuala Lumpur • To work with authorities of the ORIGIN: university in undermining behaviours Yemen and conducts of students that are in SIBLINGS: 3 conflict to the injunctions set by the EMAIL: Syariah [email protected] SRC HIGHLIGHTS VOLUME 8 (Bumper Edition)

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EDITORIAL BOARD EX-OFFICIOS Muhammad Faheem Mohd Ezani Abdul Rahman Abdul Karem

EDITOR Amrah Abdul Majid

REPORTERS Humaira Raslie Khadijah Azman Mohd Fadli Zakaria Nik Khairul Nik Rasdee Shakirah Ismail Siti Asma’ Abdul Ghani Siti Ezrina Alias Siti Hasnah Hamzah Siti Maizatul Salamin Zainatul Iknal Mohd Fadhli

DESIGN & LAYOUT SYM Crew

Comments or suggestions? Email us at: [email protected] STUDENT’S REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL IIUM Students’ Association, Level3, SC 3.7, Student Society Centre, IIUM. 03 - 2056 4646 (Main Office) 03 - 2056 4859 (Fax)

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EVENTS

SRC CONVENTION, MALACCA MOTIVATIONAL (KONVENSYEN MPP, MELAKA)

At the convention with Dato’ Dr. Hj. Shafie bin Hj. Mohd. Salleh (Minister of Higher Learning), Dato’ Dr. Nordin bin Kardi (Director of National Civics Bureau), and Ustaz Hamidon Abdul Hamid (Deputy Rector of Student Affairs and Alumni).

A convention was held on the 13th till the 16 of May previously to gather executive members of Student’s Representative Councils (SRC) from all public universities. With the theme ‘Mahasiswa Pewaris Negara’ (Students – The Nation’s Successors), the convention was aimed to achieve three objectives which were to allow SRC members from every public institute of higher learning to meet and discuss student issues that are current and worldwide; to observe important aspects concerning th

students that are to be brought down to the next generation, and also to inculcate the spirit of patriotism among future leaders. The great event, which was held at the Malacca International Trade Centre (MITC), brought forth an opportunity for the representatives to convey their critical ideas and discuss current issues intellectually. Eight members from the SRC of IIUM were able to attend the gathering. Although we were short numbered compared to other universities, our excos were able to come forward with sound views and opinions, thus, promoting the good name of the University. Distinguished panelists were brought in to talk on various topics which included ‘World Class Graduates’, ‘The Prime Minister’s Mission’, ‘Malaysia and International Politics’, ‘National Security’, ‘Economic Challenges’, ‘Islam Today’, and ‘Students and Politics’. Throughout the four-day programme, student representatives took advantage to know each other. This was a great opportunity to promote integration among university students. In general, the whole convention was a complete success. With the number of discussions held, it is hoped that the objectives of the convention have been met. We hope to see further collaborations in the future.

INTERFAITH DIALOGUE III & IDEAL STUDENTS CONVENTION

Four panelists from different religious background at the Interfaith Dialogue III. They are: Mr.Vijaya (Buddhist), Mr.Simhesvara (Hindu), Mrs.Naomi (Christian), and Mrs.Lana. The moderator was Mr.Shah Kirit from Saba’ Islamic Media.

The SRC, in collaboration with the Islamic Revealed Knowledge Students’ Society and the SHAS Mosque Office, had organized the third Inter-faith dialogue in IIUM Main Auditorium on 17th May 2005. The topic of the remarkable discussion was ‘Roles of Women in Society According to Religious Scriptures’, with speakers representing major religions in Malaysia, which are Islam, Hindu, Buddhism and Christianity. The attention-grabbing SRC HIGHLIGHTS VOLUME 8 (Bumper Edition)

dialogue has managed to open the audience’s mind towards understanding others with the explanation by the speakers. The huge turn-ups by the audience marked the success of this program.This was however tarnished by the impertinent manners shown by a number of spectators who gave offensive questions to the speakers. Nevertheless, it was a fruitful discussion as everyone learned to work out his or her differences for the betterment of the ummah. Another event which was organized by the SRC on the 5th of June 2005 was ‘An Ideal Students Convention’. The programme basically revolved on the issue of an ideal student in all aspects of life. It serves as a benchmark for students to perform better in studies, life and religion and to have an ideal balance in these spheres. The convention also helped students to prepare themselves better once they are back in their country with interesting talks given by prominent figures in IIUM such as Prof. Thameem Ushama, Bro.Mohar from IRKHS and Dr.Ariff Zakarullah. Hopefully, more programs with the same nature can be held in our campus to help in bringing out the best out of the students. InsyaAllah.

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CAMP

Participants listening intently to Mdm. Martinelli’s speech at the opening ceremony.

On the 20th-22nd of May 2005, the SRC had organized a Motivational Camp in collaboration with secondary schools from around Dun Ayer Kuning, Perak Darul Ridzuan. The schools which took part in this event were SMK Air Kuning, SMK Dato’ Panglima Perang Kiri, SMK Chenderiang and SMK Syeikh Abdul Ghani with around 80 students. The purpose of this programme was to create self-building and good akhlaq among students. The participants arrived on the 20th of May around 7 pm. The opening ceremony began at 9 pm and was launched by Mdm. Martinelli Hashim, Deputy Director of Student Development Division, IIUM. There were a lot of beneficial activities arranged such as; night walk, group binding, tazkirah, qiyamullail, talk and forum. The participants were also introduced to IIUM and campus life. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mdm. Martinelli gave the participants an inspirational speech so that they will keep on making effort to achieve the best in life. She also expressed that the world of entertainment which has invaded the minds of teenagers today cannot be tolerated. The concsequences will more likely lead to unhealthy behaviours and attitudes rather than that desired. Following the success of this event, the SRC has taken one step further by adopting these schools as ‘foster schools’ in order to conduct more programmes with them. The idea of ‘foster schools’ also will allow students from IIUM to follow the progress of the students and also to become role models for these youngsters. Alhamdulillah, most participants have voiced out their satisfaction regarding this programme. They felt that this programme has successfully presented the true color of Islam, such as the recitation of Asma al-Husna in every slot for the programme, which was something new for them. The SRC prays for their success in life. Remember that success is where preparation and opportunity meet.

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NEWS

SURVEY: FINAL EXAM THE DIRECT CLASHES WITH EID AL-FITR D I L E M M A ! A problem which the SRC has been concerned with is regarding the final examinations for Semester 1 (2005/2006) which will begin on the 24th of October 2005 and end on the 17th of November 2005. It so happens that Eid al-Fitr break will be right in the middle of the final examination (2nd of November 2005). As a result, the SRC had made a proposal to the administration suggesting that the examination should be scheduled earlier or later, that is, after Eid alFitr. The SRC’s proposal is to abolish the one-week mid semester break which has been scheduled to begin from the 28th of

August 2005 until the 4th of September 2005. As a result, the examination period, including the revision period will then commence on the 17th October 2005 until 1st November 2005, 2 weeks earlier than the originally scheduled period. Thus, this will not affect the 14-week study period and students can enjoy the inter-semester vacation from the 2nd of November 2005 until 4th December 2005. Hopefully by then, students would be able to focus on their examination. The following are results of the survey that was conducted among students of each Kuliyyah last semester:

100% 90% 80% 70% 60%

Agree

50% 40%

Disagree

30% 20% 10% 0%

AIKOL

GENERAL

ENGINE

There were about 531 respondents; most of them answered YES (475) while the others’ respond as NO and therefore chose the original date for the final examination. The general reason students gave for supporting SRC’s proposal to change the schedule for the exams is because they find it hard to concentrate on examinations during such an important Islamic celebration. Students also find that this schedule will cause them hardships in obtaining public transportations to return to their hometowns and back to campus. Students will also have to spend more money as they need to buy tickets for public

HELMETS

:

According to the Students’ Discipline Rules 2004 , riding a motorcycle in the campus without wearing a helmet would lead to a maximum fine of RM 50 to the offender. This rule was to be enforced by the 1st of June 2005 but we have received the latest news that the Legal Unit will hold this implementation and no compound will be imposed until SRC HIGHLIGHTS VOLUME 8 (Bumper Edition)

IRK

SCIENCES

transportation twice. However, students who disagree with the SRC’s suggestion also have their own strong reasons. They believe that if the final exam is brought forward, lecturers will have a hard time in catching up with the syllabus of the subjects. This will in turn, put the pressure on the students. They will also have less time to prepare for the important exams. We hope that the authority will consider both sides of the argument before making any decision. Whatever the decision, we hope that it will benefit all.

NO

NEED

With the opening of the new semester, the IIUM community will again receive its newest members with the enrollment of new students in July. The new comers; both the matriculation and the direct intake students tread on the same ground but sadly, in a different and unfair way. The direct intake students’ dilemma is apparently not a new issue. It has been recurring for quite a long time. According to a former direct intake student, Zulkhairi from Kuliyyah of Laws, who joined IIUM almost two years ago, they faced many difficulties during their first week here especially concerning the course registration. He claimed that besides the information on the APT and EPT, no form of briefing was conducted by the authority in guiding them with the whole registration process. The absence of ample information was extremely inconvenient especially for the foreign students. Their basic source of information and guidance mostly came from the seniors, as the direct intake students were not allowed to join the matriculation intake students’ Ta’aruf session. A Singaporean student, Rafitah, feels that IIUM should make it a point in giving the new foreign students a more proper introduction to Malaysia. With the absence of friends and family, they face a hard time in adapting to a new life in a totally new environment and lifestyle. Although there has been no formal complaint lodged by students, the authority in charge of students’ intake should be more aware of this problem. An explanation should be offered to the direct intake students regarding the way things are ran for them. Doing so would lessen their plight, besides making them feel that they are as equally important as the matriculation students. We were, however, informed that most direct intake students, of whom were mostly foreigners tend to fall asleep due to their inability to understand English at the time of their enrolment. The SRC recommends to the administration that if such is the case, then perhaps it is better to allow those who understand English to join in the Ta’aruf session and leave those who don’t for the next session of Ta’aruf Week.

FOR

further notice. The Legal Unit informed us that they plan to educate students regarding traffic safety before commencing this rule. From the survey conducted by SRC, most of the students disagree with this regulation. Students have reasoned that the area of IIUM is small when compared to other university campuses. Furthermore, there are no

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THEM

YET

specified places available for students to keep their helmets in Kuliyyah compounds. The SRC has made a proposal to the Legal Unit to fulfill the student’s requirements and needs before implementing the rule. There will be an open dialogue between Legal Unit and students in this semester to discuss this issue.

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NEWS

WHAT’S

HOT

Good news to the students and community of IIUM! Semester 1 (2005/2006) will be a semester to remember as SRC has lined up two very interesting programmes. The first will be the Students’ Activity Carnival 2005 (STAR ‘05) , which is to begin

THIS

SEMESTER?

on the 23rd of July 2005 until the 8th of August 2005. For this mega event, the SRC will act as the main organizer, working hand in hand with other societies in IIUM including Economics and Management Science Society (EMSS), Law Students’ Society (Lawsoc), Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Heritage Students’ Society (IRKHSS), (ARCHIMIC) and Maaruf Club. STAR ‘05 is a grand programme which coordinates and manages major programmes organized by any students’ societies and clubs of IIUM next semester. Among the objectives of this event is to develop the leadership and interpersonal skills through participations in different types of programmes or events while upholding and highlighting the uniqueness of our university at the eyes of the public. Apart from STAR ‘05, theSRC will also be organizing the biggest and most-awaited

event of the year, which is the 21st Convocation Fiesta 2005 or better known as CONVEST ‘05. This gala event, which is scheduled from the 18th until the 25th of August 2005 is held in conjunction with the convocation ceremony which is to be held during the same week. What is unique about CONVEST ‘05 this year is its’ collaboration with another big event, that is Ummatic Week. With the theme ‘Celebrating Students’ Excellence’, CONVEST ’05 aims at creating a strong bond among all students of IIUM and to commemorate the achievements of all IIUM students who have lent a hand in flourishing IIUM’s name. We call out to all students of IIUM to give your full support to both events in order to help them achieve their missions. So dear friends, watch out for STAR ‘05 and CONVEST ‘05!

NEW FUNCTIONS FOR KULLIYYAT

The functions of Admission and Records Department (A&R) have been transferred to every Kulliyyah. Therefore, each Kulliyyah will perform all the administrative tasks and A&R Department will only monitor and assist the Kulliyyat. The following are among the cores that were transferred to the Kulliyyat: 1) Course scheduling 2) Students’ registration of courses 3) Re-admission of dismissed students 4) Approval of barring students from the end of semester exams 5) Administration of exams for Kulliyyah papers 6) Approval of transfer credit and leave of absence 7) Administration of activities related to undergraduate graduation. As a consequence, all matters pertaining to the above will have to be referred to Kulliyyat or Kulliyyah Based Society. Hence, students have to know their deputy deans and the respective person in charged regarding to this matter. The list of staff in-charge at each kulliyyah/centre is provided along with their extension number as follow: SRC HIGHLIGHTS VOLUME 8 (Bumper Edition)

AHMAD IBRAHIM KULLIYYAH OF LAWS Shaharul Anwar Shafie (Asst. Director) 4286 Suhairi Sulaiman Shah (Senior Admin. Asst.) 4255 Jamilah Rahmat (Admin. Asst.) 4255 KULLIYYAH OF ECONOMICS AND MANAGEMENT SCIENCES Zenita Aryani Tiyunin (Asst. Director) 4658 Suzana Zakaria (Admin, Asst.) 4770 KULLIYYAH OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY Nur Khamsiah Ahmad (Asst. Director) 5586 Mohd Hilmi Hussain (Personal Asst.) 5161 KULLIYYAH OF ENGINEERING Anas Shamsuddin (Asst. Director) 4407 Sharifah Hussain (Admin. Asst.) 4419 KULLIYYAH OF SCIENCE Zulaifah Sharif (Asst. Director) 5464 Roziah Yaacob (Admin. Asst.) 3359 KULLIYYAH OF ARCHITECTURE AND ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN Azian Mohd. Azlan (Asst. Director) 5253 Shahril Abdullah (Senior Admin. Asst.) 3136

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KULLIYYAH OF ISLAMIC REVEALED KNOWLEDGE AND HUMAN SCIENCES (HS) Ayunita Atan (Asst. Director) 5092 Hairi Baharom (Admin. Asst.) 5094 KULLIYYAH OF ISLAMIC REVEALED KNOWLEDGE AND HUMAN SCIENCES (IRK) Sabirah Abdullah (Asst. Director) 5508 Yusop Majid (Senior Admin. Asst.) 5505 CENTRE FOR EDUCATION Morniliza Ma’amor (Asst. Director) 5332 Aisah Marikun (Admin. Asst.) 3557 STUDENT DEVELOPMENT AND CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITY DIVISION (S-DEV) Farizah Mohd Ramli (Asst. Director) 5477 Noor Azah Arshad (Admin. Asst.) 3634 CENTRE FOR LANGUAGES AND PRE-UNIVERSITY ACADEMIC DEV. Pauziah Abas (Executive Officer) 4914 Norisah Abdul (Admin. Asst.) 4905 Students from now on have to download the course registration bulletin on their own via IIUM website (http://www.iiu.edu.my/). The A&R Division will no longer supply the small bulletin as practised before.This system will be effective starting next semester.

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