WEEK 5 - Sejahtera as Local Concept of Sustainable Development

IIUM Library

 Exploring Knowledge at IIUM Dar Al-Hikmah Library

    Today, we had the exciting opportunity to visit the IIUM Dar Al-Hikmah Library, a place filled with books, articles, and other resources to help students gain knowledge. The library is a perfect space for learning and exploring ideas related to Sustainable Development and Maqasid Shariah (the higher objectives of Islamic law). During our visit, we explored various parts of the library and found many connections to the Sejahtera concept, which promotes harmony and balance in life. Our lecturer also gave us a task: take interesting photos with books, references, or exhibition materials related to the Sejahtera concept, and write three lessons about it.

Lessons Learned from the Sejahtera Concept for Sustainable Development

1. Gender Equality
   The IIUM library provides equal reading areas for male and female students. This simple arrangement supports gender equality, which is one of the goals of Sustainable Development (SDG 5). By offering equal spaces for learning, the library ensures that everyone has the same chance to succeed, regardless of gender.

2. Reduced Inequality
   We observed how the library’s unique system, the IIUM Library Classification System (ICSI), helps all students easily access Islamic knowledge. This system is inclusive and ensures that students from different backgrounds and academic levels can benefit from the library’s resources. This aligns with SDG 10, which focuses on reducing inequalities by providing equal opportunities to everyone.

3. Partnerships for the Goals
   On the second floor, we discovered that the library collaborates with organizations and NGOs to enhance its resources and support broader educational goals. These partnerships make the library a stronger place for learning and align with SDG 17, which emphasizes teamwork between institutions and communities to achieve sustainable goals.

Applying What We Learned
    The IIUM library provides a wonderful environment for studying and finding helpful materials for research. Inspired by this visit, I plan to spend time at the library at least once a week. Reading books and articles regularly will not only help me in my studies but also prepare me for the future.

Conclusion
    Our visit to the IIUM Dar Al-Hikmah Library was both educational and inspiring. The library showed us how a well-organized and resourceful space can support Sustainable Development and Maqasid Shariah. With its advanced technology and comfortable surroundings, it made learning enjoyable and easy. This experience reminded me of the importance of knowledge and the value of having a good space for learning. I plan to visit the library more often to grow intellectually and spiritually, ensuring lifelong learning and self-improvement.