KUALA LUMPUR: His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, has graciously bestowed the rank and title of Royal Professor to eminent Islamic scholar and philosopher Tan Sri Dr Syed Muhammad Naquib Al-Attas in a ceremony at Istana Negara.
Syed Muhammad Naquib, 93, received the prestigious award for his service and contributions to the country, particularly in Islamic education.
Also present at the ceremony were Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir.
Syed Muhammad Naquib is the founder of the Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (Istac) and is a widely respected thinker in contemporary Islamic civilization, both nationally and internationally.
He pioneered the concept of Islamisation of knowledge, applying it across various disciplines, including religious education, history, philosophy, theology, metaphysics, philology, semantics, literature, and art.
The title of Royal Professor is the highest and most esteemed professorship in Malaysia, bestowed by the King. Only distinguished professors who have made valuable contributions to the people and the country are eligible for this honour.
The first and only other person awarded the title was the late Royal Professor Ungku Abdul Aziz Ungku Abdul Hamid in 1978. – Bernama
