Professor Emeritus Datuk Dr Osman Bakar, rector of the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), was named the National Tokoh Maal Hijrah 1448H at a ceremony held on June 17, 2026, at Masjid Putra in Putrajaya [1, 2]. The awards were presented by the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah, in conjunction with the national-level Maal Hijrah 1448H celebration [1, 2].
Sheikh Dr Ahmad al-Raysuni, president of the International Union of Muslim Scholars and professor of usul al-fiqh, received the International Tokoh Maal Hijrah award at the same event [1, 2].
The 2026 National Maal Hijrah celebration carried the theme "MADANI Dihayati, Ummah Diberkati," emphasizing compassion, unity, and community well-being [2]. The National Tokoh Maal Hijrah award recognizes significant contributions to advancing the ummah and spreading Islamic teachings nationally [1].
Osman Bakar holds a BSc in Mathematics from Politeknik Woolwich, an MSc in Mathematics from Bedford College, and a PhD in Religion focusing on Islamic Philosophy of Science and Theology from Temple University [1].
The ceremony was attended by key figures including Deputy Prime Ministers Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul, and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan [1, 2]. The recipients received cash prizes, trophies, and certificates of appreciation [2].
Dr Zulkifli Hasan highlighted the importance of hijrah as an ongoing effort, stating, "Hijrah is not merely a historical event, but a continuous journey of transforming oneself towards better values, stronger character and greater unity within the ummah" [1].
