The School of Business and Social Sciences (SBSS) at Albukhary International University (AIU) proudly hosted the Seminar on Contemporary Issues in Economics and Finance 2025, a full-day event that celebrated innovation, critical thinking, and leadership among final-year students. The seminar, held at the AIU Auditorium, was the result of a collaborative effort between students from the Bachelor of Finance (Islamic Finance) (BFIF) and Bachelor of Economics (BEC) programmes.
🎓 Student-Led Initiative with Strong Academic Guidance
The seminar was coordinated by Mdm. Nur Arfah Abdul Sabian, with close support from Mr. Mokhlis Ahmad Fuad (Head of Programme, BFIF) and Mr. Osaid J. Abduljawwad (Head of Programme, BEC). Their mentorship enabled students to take full ownership of the event, from planning to execution, showcasing their leadership, research skills, and ability to translate academic insights into practice.
📑 Research Presentations: Bridging Theory and Real-World Challenges
At the heart of the programme were the final-year project reports and research presentations delivered by BFIF and BEC students. Covering diverse topics in economics and finance, the sessions demonstrated students’ abilities to:
- Identify pressing economic and financial issues
- Integrate theory with case-based applications
- Propose solutions rooted in sustainability and inclusivity
These presentations reflected not only academic excellence but also the university’s mission of preparing graduates who can contribute meaningfully to society and industry.
🏆 Platinum Award Highlights
Two standout teams received Platinum Awards in recognition of their outstanding contributions:
💡 BFIF – Outstanding Case Analysis Project
Awarded to the team that excelled in originality, reasoning, and impactful presentation:
Topic: A Case-Based Study on Petronas Dagangan Berhad Corporate Financing Decisions through the Lens of Shariah Principles
Recipients:
- Nur Afiqah Farhana Binti Zamri
- Nurul Anis Binti Kamarulzaman
- Muhammad Baihaqi Aqil Bin Nusantara
📊 BEC – Outstanding Paper Presentation
Awarded to the team that delivered exceptional research originality, depth of analysis, and engaging presentation:
Topic: Investigating the Role of Foreign Direct Investment on Youth Unemployment Rate in Thailand
Recipients:
- Alhassan Ibrahim Ali Hassan
- Sabrin Ereet Mohamed Ereet
- Alif Fathahillah
🎤 Keynote Speeches: Industry and Academic Insights
The seminar carried the theme “Innovating Economic and Financial Strategies for Sustainable and Inclusive Growth” and featured keynote sessions by distinguished experts:
- Dr. Abdul Rais bin Abdul Latiff (Economist, Universiti Sains Malaysia)
- Dr. Mohd Faisal bin Mustafa (Deputy CEO – Operations, Lembaga Zakat Negeri Kedah, LZNK)
Their talks inspired students with real-world perspectives on economics, finance, and social responsibility, bridging the gap between academia and practice.
🤝 Industry Academia Dialogue
A major highlight was the Industry–Academia Dialogue, which brought together experienced professionals and academics, including:
- Mr. Aizuddinur Hj Zakaria, Founder and Principal of HAL Fintech Advisor
- Professor Dr. Yusnidah Ibrahim (AIU)
The session provided an invaluable platform for students to engage with experts, ask questions, and gain insights on the evolving relationship between academic research and industry applications.
🌟 Celebrating Excellence and Leadership
Beyond the Platinum Awards, the event recognized a wide range of outstanding projects, reflecting the creativity, hard work, and vision of AIU’s final-year students. The seminar also highlighted how AIU empowers students to take initiative, lead academic events, and contribute to meaningful discussions on global issues.
By combining research, collaboration, and professional engagement, the SBSS Seminar 2025 demonstrated AIU’s commitment to nurturing graduates who are well-prepared to become future leaders in economics and finance.
