Revisiting Imam Khomeini’s Ethical Doctrine in Malaysia

Scholars Highlight His Thought as a Path to Awakening Global Conscience

The session, held on Friday, November 7, focused on promoting Imam Khomeini’s moral philosophy as a framework for addressing contemporary global crises. Speakers included Hojjat al-Islam Dr. Ali Kamsari, head of the Institute for Compilation and Publication of Imam Khomeini’s Works; Professor Chigo Azmi Abdul Hamid, head of MAPIM Malaysia and advisor to the Prime Minister; and Dr. Habib-Reza Arzani, Iran’s cultural attaché in Malaysia.

Dr. Ali Kamsari: Ethics as the Foundation of Social Transformation
Dr. Kamsari opened the session by emphasizing the urgent need to revisit Imam Khomeini’s ethical thought in a world plagued by moral and humanitarian crises. He described Imam Khomeini as one of the most influential thinkers of the 20th century, who proposed a moral system rooted in monotheism, justice, and self-purification—extending from personal conduct to political and societal structures.
He argued that technological advancement, cultural shifts, and political rivalries have marginalized human values. In this context, Imam Khomeini’s integration of ethics and politics offers a spiritual and humane response to modern challenges. “A society without ethics,” he said, “despite material progress, is on a path to decline.”
Dr. Kamsari elaborated on the ethical foundations of Imam Khomeini’s thought, the link between morality and governance, and strategies for global dissemination. He concluded by describing the Imam’s legacy as a comprehensive model combining ethics, mysticism, and political leadership—one that could redefine moral governance in today’s world.
Prof. Azmi Abdul Hamid: Ethics as the Essence of Islamic Civilization
Professor Azmi Abdul Hamid spoke on “Promoting Ethics from Imam Khomeini’s Perspective,” highlighting the Imam’s view of the Islamic Revolution as a profound moral and spiritual reform, not merely a political movement. He emphasized that Imam Khomeini saw ethics as the essence of human existence and warned that knowledge without morality leads to arrogance and oppression.
He described leadership, in Imam Khomeini’s view, as a moral stewardship grounded in integrity and piety. He also warned against the ethical degradation of science and technology, stating that a society advancing materially but collapsing morally is headed toward destruction.
Professor Azmi concluded that promoting ethics in the spirit of Imam Khomeini means rebuilding civilization on the pillars of justice, humility, and responsibility—a legacy that continues to awaken the conscience of humanity and challenge the arrogance of power.
Dr. Habib-Reza Arzani: Ethics as the Core of Humanity
Dr. Arzani, the final speaker, emphasized the central role of ethics in human life. He stated that Imam Khomeini regarded morality not as superficial etiquette but as a comprehensive system of spiritual and ethical development shaping both individuals and societies.
He concluded that Imam Khomeini’s ethical doctrine offers a timeless blueprint for personal transformation and societal reform, rooted in divine guidance and human dignity.