The Social Issues Awareness Roadshow (J-KIS) programme, which brought together youths from Higher Education Institutions (IPT) across the Northern Zone, highlighted the importance of emotional regulation, respect for differing viewpoints and strengthening one’s relationship with Allah in addressing today’s social challenges.
Organised by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) in collaboration with Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM), the programme also involved the participation of various agencies such as enforcement, health, education and community sectors. This reflects the understanding that social issues cannot be addressed in isolation, but instead require an integrated approach and collaborative approach involving multiple stakeholders.
Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), Senator Marhamah Rosli said that social issues are not confined to youth alone, but may continue into adulthood if not addressed early.
She also stressed that conflicts often stem from the inability to understand and respect differing perspectives, even when individuals are faced with the same situation.
As illustrated through the story of Prophet Yusuf as narrated in the Quran, participants were reminded of the importance of managing emotions and desires, and of evaluating every decision based on divine guidance rather than personal impulse.
The programme also introduced the concept of ADAB as a practical guide to daily practice, represented by the acronym: A – Greet with salam, D – Du’a, A – Amanah (Trust), and B – Be thankful.
In addition, participants were encouraged to turn to prayer as a source of strength during moments of emotional vulnerability, while cultivating gratitude as a means of attaining blessings and peace in life.
The organisation of the programme reflects an ongoing commitment to nurturing young people who are not only knowledgeable, but also morally grounded and capable of becoming positive narrative leaders in society.
Meanwhile, UUM Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dr Ahmad Martadha Mohamed described the J-KIS Program as highly relevant and timely, especially in light of the increasingly complex social challenges faced by today’s younger generation.
He said UUM, through the Islamic Centre, remains steadfast in its commitment to holistic student development. This is evident through the implementation of more than 100 spiritual and personality development programmes, aimed at producing students who are balanced both intellectually and spiritually.
He added that in tandem with the importance of developing the personalities of students and staff, the concept of “Menjulang Ilmu, Mengakar Adab” was introduces to encourage the UUM campus community to place greater emphasis on values and moral conduct.
“This idea is translated through a practical approach, including through the appreciation of the ADAB acronym, namely A – Greet with salam, D – Du’a, A – Amanah (Trust), B – Be thankful.
“These values serve as a vital foundation in shaping students who are not only knowledgeable, but also possess noble character and a strong sense of integrity,” he said in a speech delivered on his behalf by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni), Assoc. Prof. Dr Bakti Hasan Basri.
The Opening Ceremony of the 2026 Social Issues Awareness Roadshow Programme (J-KIS) at the Higher Education Institution (IPT) level for the Northern Zone also featured several key highlights, including the launch of the Second Edition of the Islam and HIV/AIDS Manual Book, the unveiling of the ADAB UUM acronym and the presentation of certificates of appreciation to participating agencies.
Also present were the Senior Assistant Director of the Family, Social and Community Division of JAKIM, Mdm. Hazizah Yusoff, representing the Director General of JAKIM; Director of the UUM Islamic Centre, Ustaz Mohd Yusnaidi Md. Sabri; as well as UUM and the Ministry of Health Malaysia senior officers.
