Assalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh,

I am honored to greet you as the director of Research Center for Social and Cultural Studies (PRISB) of Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK). As we embark on our journey towards achieving our objectives, it is important to recognize the local context of Aceh’s history in Islamic culture, peace and conflict, and the devastating by the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami (IOT) that brought the world’s attention to our region.

Through our global interactions, we aim to enhance our capacity to conduct research on an international scale and foster a community of high achievement in social and cultural research. As we align our policies and programs with the the “tri dharma” of higher education, we strive to deliver multidisciplinary research that meets society’s needs and supports national research priorities.

In doing so, we must also be the voice of the social and cultural research community by advocating for the importance of research in policy and decision-making processes. And, to ensure our long-term viability, we must develop a sustainable funding model that allows us to continue our important work.

As we move forward, let us be guided by the principles of Islamic culture, peace, and resilience in the face of adversity. May Allah SWT bless our efforts and grant us success in achieving our objectives.

Thank you.

Wassalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh..