Sayed Mohammed Makhdum launches his signature book at SIBF

Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer

In an event at the ongoing Sharjah International Book Fair, Sayed Mohammed Makhdum, Chairman of Zahra Foundation, Malaysia, unveiled his signature work in the form of a book titled ‘Insights to Lead with a Vision’. It is aimed at empowering the next generation of aspiring visionary leaders from different walks of life. The volume was launched on November 12 and Dr. Bu Abdulla, Chairman of Bu Abdulla Investments, presented it to Nissar Thalangara, President of Indian Association Sharjah, in the presence of Dr. Saif Al Moaili, CEO, International Academy for Science and Future Skills, Fujairah, and a large and enthusiastic audience of book lovers, thinkers, and future leaders. The book strives to be a transformative work in leadership development.

“It is designed with both beauty and purpose, and targets a wide audience, including aspiring leaders, women, and children, offering them an accessible yet a deep gift of universal principles for personal growth and leadership development,” said Makhdum. “With its innovative design and powerful message, it aims to spark new conversations around leadership, vision, and human potential.” Makhdum, who is also the Director of the Sayed Ismail Shihabudheen Council for Visionary Leadership (SISCO) at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), shared his vision for a global movement that fosters leadership grounded in compassion, wisdom, and holistic growth. His ‘Seven Series of Human Potential Publications’ movement - a philosophy which forms the backbone of his work - is focused on empowering individuals and communities for the benefit of humanity. It seeks to bring a new paradigm of leadership, where personal transformation leads to collective success. In his remarks during the launch, Makhdum expressed his belief that visionary leadership is not just for few, but for all — especially women and children - who can benefit from cultivating leadership qualities from an early age. “This book is not just a collection of words and images, but is a call to action for those who wish to lead with purpose and compassion,” he said. “Through the Human Potential Publications, I hope to inspire a new generation of leaders who are grounded in empathy, wisdom, and a desire to serve humanity.”

Besides a diverse audience of book lovers, the book release occasion attracted educators, and those passionate about leadership. They engaged in discussions on the role of visionary leadership in the world on the side lines. Makhdum is also contemplating bringing out a series of future books as part of the ‘Seven Series of Human Potential Publications’, which he believes will continue to guide and inspire future generations.

The Zahra Foundation and the IIUM established SISCO to advance the study of the Arabic book ‘Ala Hamishi Thafaseer’, to bring out the essence of its knowledge and wisdom, and to aid humanity’s advancement and prosperity. In order to spread wisdom to those who seek it, a group of well-known IIUM researchers agreed to conduct research on decoding the author’s writings. ‘Ala Hamishi Thafaseer’ is an interpretation of the Holy Quran by Shaikh Ismail Shihabudheen Thangal. It is a comprehensive interpretation that not only delves deep into the spiritual and moral teachings of the Quran, but also takes into account the latest scientific findings, to make it easier for modern minds to comprehend. At top universities in Kerala, India, such as the University of Kerala, Trivandrum, and the University of Calicut, research is being done on this interpretation of the Holy Quran. SISCO has added strength to the ties between Zahra Foundation and IIUM Malaysia. Various initiatives, including training, workshops and seminars, with an emphasis on visionary leadership, are among its programmes.

SISCO’s programmes involve immersive leadership workshops and seminars conducted by renowned experts and thought leaders which delve into topics such as strategic foresight, ethical decision-making, effective communication, and cross-cultural collaboration. There is also provision for one-on-one mentorships, where participants have the opportunity to refine their leadership skills, expand their networks and gain practical wisdom from mentors who have successfully navigated similar journeys. IIUM is a public university in Malaysia. Headquartered in Gombak, Selangor, it has six other campuses in the country.