Malaysia visit of AIT delegation continues
A delegation from State Committee on Religious Associations (SCRA) and Azerbaijan Theoloy Institute of Theology (AIT) is in Brunei to discuss relations. On May 22-26, 2023, the delegation paid an official visit to the International Islamic University of Malaysia.
The delegation discussed state-religion relations, fighting Islamophobia, strengthening relations between higher education institutions, implementing joint projects within the framework of bilateral cooperation, learning international experience in the field of science and education, and implementing teacher and student exchange programs with the Rector of the International Islamic University of Malaysia, Professor Dzulkifli Abdul Razak.
Following that, Rector Dzulkifli Abdul Razak provided information about the institution he represents. He discussed potential collaborations between the two higher education institutions.
Gunduz Ismayilov, Deputy chairman of SCRA, spoke at the meeting about the activities of the institution he represents, the current religious situation in Azerbaijan, and the tolerant and multicultural environment.
Noting that strong friendship and fraternal relations have existed throughout history between ethnic and religious communities on Azerbaijan's territory, the vice-chairman went on to say that people of different religions work in peace and tranquillity in our country, free of national, racial, and religious discrimination. G. Ismayilov drew attention to the international conference on "Islamophobia as a specific form of racism and discrimination: New global and transnational challenges" held in Azerbaijan in March of this year, emphasizing that our country is fighting Islamophobia.
Associate professor Agil Shirinov, Rector of AIT, provided extensive information about the higher education institution he represents. A. Shirinov stated that at the Institute he directs, teaching is divided into two areas: Religious Studies and Islamic Studies. He stated that, in addition to Islam, subjects containing descriptive information about other major religions, particularly Judaism and Christianity, are taught in the Religious Studies major. Subjects that study Islam from various perspectives are taught in the direction of Islamic studies, and those who graduate from this major will work as clerics.
Rector Agil Shirinov stated in the protocol signed between the two higher education institutions that he is interested in implementing joint projects.
The delegation then attended a round table discussion commemorating the 40th anniversary of the International Islamic University of Malaysia. The delegation members also went to the faculty of Islamic transmission of (religious) knowledge and humanitarian sciences, as well as its library.
Gunduz Ismayilov, Deputy Chairman of SCRA; Associate Professor Agil Shirinov, Rector of AIT; Emin Orujov, Assistant to the AIT rector and Shahin Alasgarov, Senior Specialist for AIT Foreign Relations participated in the business trip organized by the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Malaysia and Idrak Public Union.