Ciputat, (15/6/2023). The International Conference on Muslim English Literature held on June 15, 2023, proved to be a huge success, bringing together scholars, experts, and participants from around the world. The event was held virtually via Zoom conference meeting, hosted by the English Literature Department, Faculty of Adab and Humanities, UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, which provided a platform to explore the diverse facets of Muslim English Literature and fostered meaningful discussions on various themes and subthemes.

The conference commenced with a warm welcoming speech by Hasnul Insani Djohar, Ph.D., Chairperson of the Conference, and opening remarks by Dr. Ade Abdul Hak, S.Ag., M.Hum., the Dean of the Faculty of Adab and Humanities, UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta. The opening remarks set the tone for an engaging and fruitful event. Participants were privileged to listen to distinguished keynote speakers during the opening session; Prof. Dr. Sajaudeen Nijamodeen Chapparban from the Central University of Gujarat, India. He brought up the top topic of Contemporary Global Muslim Diaspora Literature. Dr. Asma Elzeiny from Al-Azhar University in Cairo talked about Beyond Islamophobia: Examining the Impact of Negative Stereotypes on Muslim Women’s Spiritual Identity and Well-being. Further, Dr. Muh. Arif Rokhman from Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia discussed Comparative Literature of International Muslim Literature. Their presentations provided valuable insights into the world of Muslim English Literature, enriching the discussions throughout the conference. Furthermore, the event also featured notable speakers during the closing session; Hasnul Insani Djohar PhD from UIN Jakarta who explored Islamic Sacred Text in Us_Muslimah Fiction, and Dr. Asma Chaar from the University of Exeter, UK who further enhanced the depth and diversity of the discussions on Decolonising Narratives on Arab Women’s Contribution. The main session was moderated by M. Agus Suriadi, M, Hum, the lecturer in the English Literature Department, UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta.

The conference program encompassed a wide range of subthemes, from Muslim transnational writing to Islamic literary criticism, Women’s literature of the ummah, and the exploration of Muslim diaspora writings. There are eight parallel sessions with specific themes such as Muslim Women: Identity, Power, and Gender which was led by Fauziah Imma and Pita Merdeka; Muslim Literature: Style and Theme moderated by Moh. Supardi; Muslim Immigrant: Representation, Resistance, and Identity chaired by Sari Fitria and Nor Isla; Politic, language, and Culture facilitated by Yasir Mubarok; Colonialism and Patriarchal Ideology led by M. Agus Suriadi; and Islam, Culture, and Environmental Issues chaired by Akhmad Zakky.

The event organizers ensured a seamless experience for all participants, speakers, and presenters. The technical aspects were well-handled, allowing for smooth transitions between sessions and efficient communication. Participants actively participated in panel discussions, paper presentations, and workshops, contributing to a vibrant and intellectually stimulating atmosphere.

The International Conference on Muslim English Literature was an outstanding gathering that celebrated the richness and diversity of Muslim literary expressions. It offered a valuable platform for scholars and enthusiasts to explore various themes and subthemes related to the Muslim world.

The success of this event can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of the organizing team, the insightful contributions of the speakers, and the active engagement of the participants. This conference undoubtedly made a significant contribution to the understanding and appreciation of Muslim English Literature.

Photo session with all presenters, speakers, and participants.

Panel Sessions 1 & 2.

Contributor: Abdussalam S. Barzakh

Editor: Ida Rosida