Centre for Development Studies UCSF

01/09/2026

SEMINAR ON CONTEMPORARY ISLAMIC SOCIAL FINANCE

CDS successfully organised the Seminar on “Contemporary Islamic Social Finance: Prospects and Challenges” on 21 August 2026.

The seminar explored the role of Islamic social finance instruments, including zakat, waqf, sadaqah and qard hasan in addressing contemporary issues such as poverty, education, unemployment and community development.

The programme brought together academic and institutional perspectives to discuss opportunities and challenges in managing Islamic social finance effectively, transparently, and sustainably.

Our appreciation to Majlis Ugama Islam Sabah (MUIS), International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) for their collaboration.

01/09/2026

DEVELOPMENT LECTURE SERIES - ETHICS & PLAYBACK IN BIRDS

CDS successfully organised “Thinking of the Ethics and Assumptions of Playback in Birds” on 27 July 2026.

The session explored ethical considerations surrounding playback in bird research and observation, highlighting responsible practices and the importance of balancing scientific interests with wildlife welfare and conservation.

Our appreciation to Dr Andrew Whitehouse from the University of Aberdeen, Scotland, for sharing his expertise.

01/09/2026

DEVELOPMENT LECTURE - THE DEVELOPMENT OF MENARA MERDEKA 118

CDS organised “The Development of Menara Merdeka 118: From the Drawing Board to Reimagined Work-Lifestyle Experience” on 17 April 2026.

The lecture explored urban development, innovative design, sustainability, mixed-use spaces, and the role of large-scale developments in shaping modern cities.

Thank you to Dato’ Tengku Ab. Aziz Tengku Mahmud, Advisor and Former Chief Executive Officer of PNB Merdeka Ventures Sdn Bhd, for sharing his experience and insights.

13/03/2024