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On 5^th February 2025 filled with intellectual vigor and future-oriented optimism, the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) hosted a momentous double launch: the launching of A Malik Bennabi Reader, authored by Prof. Mohamed El-Tahir El-Mesawi and the inauguration of the new International Institute of Futures Studies (IIFS) at IIUM. Among the luminaries attending was the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim—a figure who has often cited Malik Bennabi as a profound influence on his own thought. What followed was a reflection on Bennabi’s relevance in today’s world, specifically how his views on decolonization, intellectual renewal, and moral accountability can guide Malaysia’s path forward.

The event was held at the International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC), a venue that has a distinguished tradition of hosting critical discussions on Islamic thought. Prof. El-Mesawi meticulously edited and translated A Malik Bennabi Reader, which encapsulates decades of Bennabi's writings. The International Institute of Futures Studies is dedicated to the development of ethical, forward-thinking policies, the promotion of innovative scholarship, and the resolution of emergent challenges. Algerian philosopher Bennabi (1905–1973) was renowned for his contributions to the revival of civilizations. He introduced the concept of "colonizability," which critiques the internal worldview that leaves societies vulnerable to external domination, even after formal colonial rule has ended. Bennabi remains a beacon for Muslim intellectuals worldwide by emphasizing both the interior reawakening and the broader social structures required for true independence.

The Prime Minister emphasized Bennabi's diagnosis of "colonizability": "Colonial powers may be long gone, but the mentality of subjugation can linger on, leaving societies in intellectual inertia and social fragmentation." PM Anwar cautioned against the inert assimilation of foreign constructs without critical reflection. He emphasized that genuine liberation necessitates the confrontation and dismantling of the mindset that normalizes dependence and undervalues our own intellectual and spiritual capabilities. PM Anwar emphasized the perpetuation of oppression by advanced technology or modern institutions that lack moral consciousness, citing Bennabi's emphasis on an ethical awakening. This ranges from the colonial empires of the past to contemporary injustices in places such as Palestine. He advocated for a comprehensive strategy that encompassed political and economic autonomy, democratic accountability, and cultural assurance. PM Anwar regards Bennabi's work as a product of "deep and profound inner faith," rather than "intellectual gymnastics." He maintained that Islam's spiritual resources provide a foundation for democracy and governance that is founded on the sanctity of human dignity, mercy (rahmah), and justice (‘adl). He reiterated Bennabi's assertion that genuine modernization must not abandon these spiritual and ethical foundations.

Malik Bennabi's perspective is in alignment with the government's advocacy for a purpose-driven strategy. For instance, economic reforms that focus on uplifting the marginalized rather than solely driving growth, educational policies that foster critical thinking, socio-political initiatives that ensure democracy remains accountable to the people, and the integration of "science and technology" with ethical formation ("accountability is vital," PM Anwar insisted). IIUM and the new IIFS intend to promote a resurgence of holistic scholarship, which combines Islamic heritage with forward-thinking, by emphasizing Bennabi. PM Anwar urged academicians, policymakers, and students to reclaim the narrative, advocating for solutions that address the complexities of the modern world while drawing on the spiritual foundations of Islam. Prime Minister Anwar linked Bennabi's concepts of "social democracy" and "human dignity" to his vision of a Malaysia Madani—a nation that promotes the pursuit of knowledge, fosters moral fortitude, and upholds the principles of equity, compassion, and diversity. Bennabi's framework serves as a reminder that reform and renewal must be founded on ethical and intellectual clarity, from the mitigation of escalating living expenses to the protection of minority rights.

The IIFS was inaugurated concurrently with the book launching, signifying a dedication to proactively influencing the future rather than merely reacting to it. PM Anwar commended IIUM's initiative, underscoring that futures literacy can mitigate global uncertainties, including those that are socio-economic, technological, or geopolitical. Malaysia can more effectively navigate an ever-changing global landscape by incorporating contemporary methodologies and gaining insights from philosophers such as Bennabi in future studies. The inauguration of the International Institute of Futures Studies and A Malik Bennabi Reader was not merely an academic ceremony; it was a call to action.

About the author :

Dr. Mohamed Aslam Akbar Hasani, an Assistant Professor in Shariꜥah Sciences at the Department of Economics, Kulliyyah of Economics and Management Sciences at International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) currently teaches undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Islamic commercial jurisprudence, Islamic economics and conducts research on the classical works of Muslim scholarship in economic thought, Waqf creation for food security and Maqasid al-Shariah based developments.