Sharjah International Foundation for the History of Arab and Muslim Sciences

Kuala Lumpur, 26 January 2025

Esteemed historian and scholar, Prof. Dr. Mesut Idriz, Director of SIFHAMS at the University of Sharjah, delivered an enlightening lecture on “The Rights of Minorities Under the Ottoman State” at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) during the Royal Conference on Islam and Humanity, held between 26-27 January 2025. The session, held under the theme Justice in Islam, attracted government officials, ambassadors, prominent scholars, students, and members of the public eager to explore the intersection of Islamic education, justice, and humanity. Prof. Dr. Idriz emphasized the Ottoman Empire’s commitment to justice and inclusivity, detailing the frameworks that safeguarded the rights of minorities under Islamic law. Drawing on rich historical evidence, he illustrated how the Ottomans implemented systems to protect religious and cultural diversity while ensuring social harmony.Prof. Dr. Idriz also emphasized the civilizational history of the Balkans, linking it to the Ottoman period.  Following his lecture, Prof. Dr. Idriz engaged in a lively Q&A session. Audience members posed questions on a wide range of topics. His thoughtful responses shed light on the enduring values of justice in Islam, emphasizing their universal applicability and significance in today’s global context. The Royal Conference on Islam and Humanity, hosted by UTM, serves as a platform for fostering dialogue on the role of Islamic principles in addressing modern societal challenges. This year’s focus on justice highlighted its central role in Islam, as articulated by both historical and contemporary perspectives. Attendees praised Prof. Dr. Idriz for his insightful presentation, which bridged history and modern relevance, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.