OIC Shall Not Be ‘Oh, I See’

By Dato’ Dr Hasan Mad
Secretary General, MPM | CEO, The Global Academy @ MPM
1st Muharram 1447H / 27 June 2025

A Sacred Reminder on the First Day of Muharram

As we enter the new Islamic year 1447 Hijriah, it is timely for us at MPM (Majlis Perundingan Melayu) to reflect upon the commitments and opportunities Malaysia holds, particularly as one of the 30 Founding Members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

The new Hijri year is not merely symbolic; it must serve as a catalyst for concrete action and renewed strategy among the Muslim nations.

OIC: The Second Largest International Body

Few realise the full scale and potential of the OIC. Formed on 12 Rajab 1389H (25 September 1969) in Rabat, Morocco, following the tragic arson of Al-Aqsa Mosque, the OIC today stands as the second largest international organisation after the United Nations.

From its original 30 members, it has grown to 57 sovereign Muslim nations, spanning four continents and representing over 2 billion people, not far behind the population of the Commonwealth of Nations.

Economic Might in Numbers

As of 2024, the OIC’s combined economic strength—based on purchasing power parity (PPP), is estimated at a staggering USD 27.95 trillion, with a per capita GDP of USD 24,187.

Highlights include:

• Qatar: Highest per capita GDP (PPP) at USD 133,360, nominal GDP at USD 220.4 billion.
• Indonesia: Largest population among OIC members, 241.5 million.
• Pakistan: Second largest, with 225.6 million.
• Malaysia: 34 million population, GDP at USD 440 billion, per capita GDP of USD 13,142.

Malaysia’s Role: More Than Just Membership

Malaysia, as a founding OIC member, also holds strategic positions in multiple other economic blocs—D-8, Commonwealth, and RCEP among them.

The recent inclusion of Azerbaijan in D-8 (19 December 2024) marks a growing momentum for stronger intra-OIC economic ties.

But with such stature, we must ask:
Are we leading or simply observing?
OIC should never be perceived as merely “Oh, I see.”

Action Starts Now: 3 Strategic Initiatives

Let the 1st of Muharram 1447H be our take-off point for a redefined mission. MPM, together with the Bumiputera Economic Community, is committed to implementing the following:

1. OIC Trade Domination

Promote a strong trading culture among MPM associates to lead trade engagements across OIC countries. Build capacity in trade knowledge, negotiation, and logistics.

2. Halal Economy & Islamic Finance

Position Malaysia as a global leader in Halal industries and Islamic Finance, turning these sectors into our nation’s signature economic contributions to the OIC.

3. Bumiputera Global Diaspora Network

Accelerate the development of a Bumiputera global business diaspora, following the footsteps of pioneers like GISB, to link Muslim communities in trade, services, and knowledge.

Closing Reflection

We must transform prayers into plans, vision into ventures. As we recite our du’a on the first day of this new Hijri year, let us reaffirm our will to act, to build, and to lead.

Let OIC be a platform of real strength and opportunity, never again just “Oh, I see.”