HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday reminded the people to use technology wisely for the purposes of strengthening their religious faith, instead of allowing themselves to be controlled by technology.
His Majesty said this in a titah at the 8th Convocation of the Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB), at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas.
His Majesty, who is also the Chancellor of KUPU SB, said, “At present, people are earnestly talking about 21st Century skills and the 4th Industrial Revolution. The advancement of digital knowledge has become a platform for improving the value of our achievements. It is undoubtedly an incredible advancement in the field of technology. It also makes life much easier and more instantaneous.
“In this regard, may I suggest that academicians, teachers and graduates avail themselves of these advances in technology to be more creative, innovative and productive in providing more accessible, quick and easy teaching aids which can also be used to improve the quality of Dakwah activities.
“The combination of knowledge, faith and virtue with technological progress is one of the ways towards a prosperous life in this world and in the hereafter.
“This is consistent with verse 77 from Surah Al-Qasas: ‘But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world. And do good as Allah has done good to you. And desire not mischief in the land. Indeed, Allah does not like those who carry out mischief.’”
His Majesty also reiterated the need to learn Islamic History. “I would like all the involved parties not to be indifferent in their responses to this, as I would not want our present and future generations to be ignorant of Islamic History.
“Islamic History is part of the legacy of human civilisation. It should not be marginalised, because otherwise it means that we have lost our sense of identity. Those lacking in self-identity are often disconnected and confused, as they have forgotten their roots.”
His Majesty also congratulated the graduates for the successful completion of their studies at KUPU SB: “I also congratulate the parents and guardians, and all the lecturers of KUPU SB, for their support and prayers for the success of the graduates.
“The experience gained by KUPU SB graduates, both academically and in co-curricular activities, is very important for a prospective educator or a person specialising in religious services.
“This experience is important enough to be sustained as a way of developing individuals with potential, whether it be in a formal or informal manner,” said the monarch. The graduates are required to contribute sincerely towards charitable causes, whether in terms of energy or moral guidance. This is the dedication required of the graduates for our society. It is also an act of magnanimity, as commanded by Allah the Almighty in Surah Al-Ankabut, verse 69: ‘As for those who strive in Our cause, We shall surely guide them to Our ways. Indeed, Allah is with those who do good.’”
His Majesty also noted with pleasure the progress achieved by KUPU SB through its annual report, in addition to its success in strengthening the curriculum in alignment with the school system.
Similarly, the institution has also succeeded in expanding its intellectual, social, Dakwah, health and welfare activities.
“During Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali’s (UNISSA) recent Hafl Al-Takharruj (convocation ceremony), I alluded to the ranking of higher education institutions. I meant this actually as a stimulus, in order for each institution to have its own vision and determination in striving towards excellence,” said the monarch.
“I did not mean to put pressure regarding this matter on our centres of higher education, such as UNISSA and KUPU SB. I understand that each of these centres is in a different setting. The pace towards which they reach the rankings is also determined by their respective settings.”
In concluding the titah, His Majesty expressed appreciation and gratitude towards the faculty of KUPU SB, particularly the Chairman and members of the KUPU SB Council, Ra’es, senate members, core officers, academicians and staff members.
“Let us continually pray to Allah the Almighty with the hope that KUPU SB will be a centre of studies that is blessed by Allah the Almighty, and capable of serving the country and Muslims in general,” said His Majesty.
His Majesty later presented 233 graduating students with their degrees and diplomas.
Out of 233 students, 24 graduated with a Masters in Religious Teaching, 19 with a Postgraduate Diploma in Religious Teaching, three with a Postgraduate Diploma in Religious Teaching (Arabic), 35 with a Bachelors in Religious Teaching (Usuluddin), 75 with a Bachelors in Religious Teaching (Syariah), 12 with a Higher Diploma in Religious Teaching (Usuluddin), and 65 with a Higher Diploma in Religious Teaching (Syariah).
