Collaboration: Messages from the Rector of IPB University and the Vice Chair of MUI at the Halalbihalal Event
IPB University held the 1447 H Halalbihalal event, themed “Purify the Heart, Strengthen Bonds, and Deepen Collaboration,” at Grha Widya Wisuda, Dramaga Campus, on Wednesday (4/1). This event served as a moment for reflection and a reinforcement of the value of togetherness for the entire academic community.
In his remarks, IPB University Rector Dr Alim Setiawan Slamet emphasized the importance of piety as the foundation for building collaboration, integrity, and a spirit of productivity within the academic environment.
He noted that Ramadan has cultivated four core values that embody piety: humility (tawadhu), contentment (qana’ah), self-restraint (wara), and certainty (yaqin). These values are considered essential for fostering a collaborative and integrity-driven academic culture.
“Tawdhu is the key to building interdisciplinary collaboration. Collaboration can only emerge from the humility to learn from one another,” he said.
According to him, qana’ah is also crucial so that the academic community does not get trapped in merely chasing indicators like rankings or publications, but remains focused on making tangible contributions to the nation. “We must keep asking, for whom are we working? IPB exists for Indonesia,” he emphasized.
The value of wara was emphasized as a form of academic integrity. He reminded everyone of the importance of honesty in research and the courage to uphold the truth, even when no one is watching.
As for yaqin, he explained, it serves as the primary source of energy in facing uncertainty. “We must be certain that what we do today will have an impact in the future,” he said.
On this occasion, the Rector also urged the entire academic community to be grateful for IPB University’s various achievements. Currently, IPB University ranks 48th globally in the Agriculture & Forestry category according to the QS World University Rankings 2026, and for the first time has entered the top 100 globally in the Veterinary Science category. In 2025, IPB University also received the most awards at the Diktisaintek Awards organized by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology.
“These achievements are not instant results, but the fruit of the hard work of our predecessors, faculty members, staff, students, alumni, and partners who continue to support IPB,” he said.
Meanwhile, Vice Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council, Cholil Nafis, emphasized in his speech the importance of knowledge that does not stop at the theoretical level but has a tangible impact on society.
“When knowledge enters society, it becomes a powerful force for good. We must consider how this movement impacts both ourselves and the broader community,” he said.
He also reminded everyone of the importance of building a long-term vision in every contribution made.
“As for me, I think 25 to 100 years ahead. This means that what we do today must have a sustainable impact,” he explained.
Through this Halalbihalal event, IPB University hopes that the spirit of Ramadan can be sustained in daily life, while also strengthening collaboration and the contributions of the academic community to society and the nation.
