ALOR SETAR, 21 January 2025 – Dr. Khairudin Aljunied, a renowned scholar and expert on Southeast Asian connections, delivered two captivating lectures at Albukhary International University (AIU) on 17 January 2025. His thought-provoking talks left a lasting impact on the audience, inspiring them to rethink their perspectives on identity, community, and academic success.
Lecture 1: On Global Identity Politics and the Networked Age
In his first lecture, Dr. Aljunied delved into the complexities of global identity politics in the digital age. He argued that social media platforms have created new avenues for identity formation, mobilisation, and contestation. Dr. Aljunied emphasised the need to navigate these complexities with nuance, recognising both the opportunities and challenges presented by the networked age.
He challenged the audience to think critically about how global events, ideologies, and technological advancements shape our understanding of self and community. By doing so, Dr. Aljunied encouraged the audience to become active participants in shaping their own identities and narratives, rather than passively accepting dominant discourses.
Lecture 2: On How to Be a Successful Academic
In his second lecture, Dr. Aljunied shared invaluable insights on what it takes to become a successful academic. He emphasised the importance of cultivating balanced lifestyles, strong work ethic, perseverance, and resilience in the face of challenges.
Dr. Aljunied also stressed the need for academics to engage in meaningful knowledge production that addresses real-world problems. He encouraged the audience to pursue research that is both rigorous and relevant, and to communicate their findings effectively to diverse audiences.
Throughout his lectures, Dr. Aljunied’s passion for knowledge, critical thinking, and community engagement was evident. His inspiring talks left the audience with a renewed sense of purpose, motivating them to become active contributors to the global academic community.
Dr. Aljunied’s visit to AIU served as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of the university in the spheres of education, research, and critical thinking. His talks will continue to inspire future generations of scholars, thinkers, and leaders at AIU.
