During the Year-End Discussion in 2023, the Rector of IPB University Emphsized the Importance of Contribution to the Progress of the Nation

The Faculty of Economics and Management (FEM) at IPB University, together with the Central Executive Board (MPP) of the Indonesian Muslim Intellectuals Association (ICMI), and the Waqf Council of the Indonesian Islamic Propagation Assembly, held the Year-End Discussion 2023 with the theme “Reflection on the Dynamics of the Nation’s Journey in 2023 and Projection for 2024.” The discussion took place in a hybrid format in the Equilibrium Room, at the IPB Dramaga Campus on Thursday, 28/12.

Dr Irfan Syauqi Beik, Dean of FEM at IPB University, stated in his address that the discussion is a reflection on the nation’s journey, especially in 2023. “In this discussion, we will explore the dynamics of the nation’s journey from various scholarly perspectives and viewpoints, as well as talk about projections for 2024 during the transition period of new leadership,” he said.

He mentioned two special moments during the event. First is the celebration of the 33rd anniversary of ICMI. From his perspective as a Sharia economist, ICMI is an institution that contributed to the development of Islamic economics in Indonesia.

“Second, the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the superior seed waqf productive program for food resilience, which is part of the innovations at IPB University. In this MoU, we combine expertise in agriculture with waqf instruments and the involvement of banking institutions,” he explained.

Prof Arif Satria, Rector of IPB University and also the Chairman of ICMI, delivered a keynote speech, stating that ICMI adheres to the principles of the 5K: quality of faith, thought, work, creation, and life.

“The 5K is the orientation of ICMI as a driver of a new civilization in Indonesia. Therefore, in 2024, it is time for us to have the determination to contribute benefits both individually and institutionally. ICMI positions itself as a source of inspiration and as one of the drivers of transformation,” he said.

He also emphasized the importance of providing benefits to others that have a significant impact on progress. “If we have an orientation toward growing usefulness, the progress of the nation and the advancement of the community can be achieved. Therefore, our thinking in utilizing our work and innovation must bring about significant benefits,” he added.

Prof Arif hoped that this forum could analyze what happened in 2023 by improving the quality of development and emerging democracy. “The transformation of leadership based on elections is now shifting to leadership based on substance, meaning the quality of leaders becomes important. With this activity, we can gain insights to contribute to the progress of the community and the nation,” he concluded.

The discussion was attended by three speakers: Prof Didin S. Damanhuri (ICMI Expert Council), Prof Yusman Syaukat (Professor at the Faculty of Economics and Management, IPB University), and Dr Adian Husaini (Chairman of the Indonesian Islamic Propagation Assembly/DDII), with Elba Damhuri (Editor-in-Chief of Republika) as the moderator. (*/Lp) (IAAS/DSR)