CAIRO, Nov 11 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the Muslim world could be left further behind without decisive and sustained investment in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.
He added that it is indeed essential for the Muslim world to strengthen STEM education from as early as possible, drastically increase research and development investment, and prioritise transformative fields like biotechnology, chemical sciences, and information technology.
“These sectors are critical not only to economic growth but also to addressing urgent issues — from healthcare crises to environmental degradation — that cannot wait for tomorrow’s solutions.
“The digital economy poses yet another urgent challenge. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the Muslim world must prioritise investments in cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, and information and communications technology skills.
“We must establish strong cybersecurity frameworks, build resilient digital infrastructures, and ensure that the next generation is prepared to navigate and shape a rapidly evolving digital landscape,” he said during his public lecture titled “Stronger Together: A Vision For The Muslim Ummah Through Tech, Social and Economic Empowerment” at Al-Azhar University here yesterday.
The lecture was also attended by Al-Azhar Al-Sharif Grand Imam Shaikh Prof Ahmad Muhammad Ahmad At-Tayyeb, and Malaysian Ambassador to Egypt Datuk Mohd Tarid Sufian. In Anwar’s delegation were Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, and Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
Anwar said equally crucial is the need for large-scale, transnational collaborations in science, as well as joint ventures in space exploration, astronomy, marine science, and high-performance computing among the Muslim world as the fields are no longer luxuries but necessities.
“These ambitious projects offer our nations the chance to develop cutting-edge technologies, improve economic security, and demonstrate the power of a united Ummah,” he explained.
Anwar also reminded the Muslim world to never forget the traditional role played by Al-Azhar Al-Sharif as a centre for reform, a bastion of knowledge and creative thinking, and, even more significant, a defender against the onslaught of colonialism while preserving and asserting the ummah’s Islamic identity.
He said Al-Azhar Al-Sharif has made significant contributions to the Islamic world, and Muslims in the Malay Archipelago, especially, have greatly benefited from the university, with its graduates having always been formidable in defending their faith and knowledge and instilling the spirit and essence of Islam in their communities.
— Bernama
