In the reflective atmosphere of 1987, amidst the serene backdrop of the Ibadah Camp in Port Dickson, the theme of an idea was gingerly set forth by a handful of International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) students. Passionately deliberated, the proposal was embraced by unanimous agreement. The guiding mantra finds its roots in the divine verses of Surah Al-Maidah which eloquently allude to mutual assistance in benevolence and piety, and a profound trust in the Almighty.

This spark found its wind of approval through the relentless support of the Rector at that time, Prof. Emeritus Tan Sri Dato’ Dzulkifli Abdul Razak, turning the proposal into a formal student initiative embraced by a broader group. Over a decade later, the nurturing of this noble concept, painstakingly nourished with unflinching devotion, was cultivated.

The resilient efforts bore fruit on 11th July 1997, when the IIUM Alumni Association was officially christened with the seal of the Registrar of Societies.

The Association’s mission was multifaceted. Beyond being a platform for intellectual, spiritual, and social engagements, it aspired to strengthen familial bonds and societal ties to a beacon of meaningful unity. Anchored to the university ethos, it strived to foster interconnections between alumni, energizing their potential while broadening professional horizons.

Simultaneously, resource-generating initiatives were activated to benefit the university, ensuring sustainable growth and broadening its contribution to the broader community and nation.

This spirit was palpably alive in the inaugural Annual General Meeting held on 8th December 1997. A monumental chapter unfolded as the Association’s pioneering leadership wove a firm foundation through the tapestry of time.

With names like Dr. Sabirin Jaafar, who gracefully donned the baton of leadership, followed by Dato’ Seri Mohamed Naina Merican, whose leadership broadened the Association’s reach in 2008, it further enriched its vision by championing robust collaborations and noble humanitarian causes, including a poignant Palestinian relief fundraiser.

Tuan Hj. Khaleq Awang’s ascension in the 2010 Annual General Meeting marked a new dawn. With aspirations high, and the journey ahead as compelling as ever, IIUM Alumni Association powered unwavering commitment to its aims and ideals. Anchored by the lofty ideals of its inception, the Association continues to evolve, breathing life into its collective mission to continuously come to fruition.