On 26 June, International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilisation of International Islamic University Malaysia (ISTAC-IIUM) dean Prof Datuk Dr Abdelaziz Berghout announced the establishment of the Daisaku Ikeda Research Unit at ISTAC-IIUM. Supported by SGM, the research unit will work on a one-year project starting this August to analyse the Peace Proposals written by President Ikeda from 1983 to 2022. These proposals address a range of challenges confronting the global community in its pursuit of peace and human security.

The research unit plans to publish a collection of papers and hold seminars to present their research findings. Led by Datuk Dr Berghout, the project will involve participation from the university’s staff and students. 

Exploring cross-cultural dialogue and pathways to peace through President Ikeda’s Peace Proposals, the project represents a significant step towards a more harmonious world.

On the day of the announcement, ISTAC-IIUM also presented SGM with the “Best Partnership Award” in recognition of the numerous collaborative efforts between the two parties. These include the launch of Hikmah Toleransi – Falsafah Kepemurahan dan Keamanan (the Malay edition of The Wisdom of Tolerance: A Philosophy of Generosity and Peace) by Daisaku Ikeda and Abdurrahman Wahid on 7 January last year and the hosting of a Daisaku Ikeda Memorial Lecture on 2 January this year to commemorate the 96th anniversary of President Ikeda’s birthday, among other collaborations.

Datuk Dr Berghout remarked that the collaborations have significantly advanced ISTAC-IIUM’s efforts to promote intercultural and interfaith dialogue, in line with its goals of fostering global citizenship and harmonious coexistence.

The award was presented to SGM General Director Koh Sia Feai by IIUM president Tan Sri Samsudin Osman.