Introduction to Managing Cultural Diversity
In the multicultural reality of Malaysian higher education, IIUM is committed to fostering an environment that encourages meaningful interaction across all cultural backgrounds. Cultural Intelligence (CQ) is a primary driver for realising the university’s mission to produce balanced graduates and promote the concept of Insan Sejahtera.
What is Cultural Intelligence (CQ)?
CQ is more than an administrative requirement; it is the ability to understand, communicate, and interact effectively with people from diverse cultural background. Our blueprint focuses on three core dimensions of CQ:
1. Cognitive (Knowledge): Developing an awareness of different cultures, including their various norms, values, and beliefs.
2. Emotional (Motivation): Building the perseverance to learn from and adopt to varied cultural situations.
3. Physical (Action): Promoting behavioral actions and gestures that demonstrate respect and appreciation for other cultures.
Fostering a Garden of Knowledge and Virtue
By cultivating CQ, we aim to navigate our multicultural reality through:
1. Encouraging Interaction: Creating a campus culture where students and staff from all walks of life can engage in a true exchange of knowledge.
2. Promoting Behavioral Excellence: Rooting our daily actions in cultural intelligence to ensure mutual respect.
3. Realising Insan Sejahtera: Ensuring that every member of IIUM community becomes a balanced individual capable of thriving in a globalised world.
