Islamic Leadership in the 21^st Century

Prof Rafik I. Beekun & Dr Jamal Badawi in their famous work, ‘Leadership: An Islamic Perspective’ (1999) stated that “Leadership is a trust (amanah). It represents a psychological contract between a

leader and his followers that he will try his best to guide them, to protect them and to treat them justly. Hence, the focus of leadership in Islam is on doing good”.

In addition, the renowned Philosopher / Scholar YM Tan Sri Prof Dr Syed Naquib Al-Attas in one of his famous works ‘Islam: The Concept of Religion and The Foundation of Ethics and Morality’ (1992) coined the term Kingdom in Miniature that describes one’s self city that has to be well managed and led by every individual person prior to managing and leading others. 

This important understanding of leadership in the form of leading oneself is becoming central in organisational excellence. Discussions on ‘adab’ or virtues as a vital criterion for leaders is becoming crucial. The correct understanding and ability to place the correct knowledge and skills are pre-requisite for any leadership function towards one’s and organisational excellence.

This program is being designed to deliberate and discuss through a learning journey on the various practices and principles on Islamic leadership and management. Learners will be exposed not only on

the numerous styles of contemporary leadership, but shall understand how the Prophet Muhammad PBUH as the most influential person in history as described by Michael Hart in his famous work ‘The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History’ (1978) has showed the ways how he has led the mankind and has been remarked as the most influential person in history. 

This programme is designed to provide an over-arching understanding of the Islamic leadership for all aspiring leaders, and particularly the senior executives of organisations. Learners who have at least three years of working experience and/or have held leadership functions in organisations are highly encouraged to participate.

At the end of the course, participants will be able to;

• Understand the broad context of Islamic leadership and management from Islamic perspective
• Learn and understand the concept of self-leadership
• Unlock the importance of ‘adab’ (good virtues) in leadership
• Explore practical tools for leading oneself and leading organisations

• Basic traits for effective leaders & managers
• Learn on how the Prophet PBUH has showed to mankind on his leadership skills and attributes
• Learn the 360 leadership as showed by the Prophet PBUH and great Muslim leaders of the past
• Learn the basis of authority and power in Islamic leadership
• ‘Adab’ (good virtues) as practical solution in managing differences
• Understand the roles of selected exemplary leaders in communities & in history
• Understand the application of relevant working tools for leaders including the GROW Coaching Model