Al-Ghazali’s ethical framework for strengthening political integrity in Malaysia towards society 5.0

Mahadi, Mohd Hidayat and Kamal Basir, Mohd Zuhaili and Wan Sulaiman, Wan Mohammad Sallam and Redzan, Izham Hakimi and Othman, Muhammad Remy (2026) Al-Ghazali’s ethical framework for strengthening political integrity in Malaysia towards society 5.0. BITARA International Journal of Civilizational Studies and Human Sciences, 9 (2). pp. 260-273. E-ISSN 2600-9080

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Abstract

As societies move toward Society 5.0, technological advancement is increasingly shaping political decision making. In Malaysia, this shift unfolds alongside the Madani vision, which places strong emphasis on integrity, trust, and human dignity. This article argues that the main challenge in realising an ethical Society 5.0 is not technological readiness, but the persistent problem of political integrity. To address this concern, the article turns to the ethical thought of al Ghazali and proposes a leadership framework grounded in tazkiyah al-nafs (spiritual purification), niyyah (ethical intention), and ‘adl (justice). Rather than treating these concepts as abstract ideals, the study shows how they can guide contemporary political leadership in navigating the ethical pressures of techno governance. The key contribution of this article lies in connecting classical Islamic ethical insights with present day governance challenges, offering a model that speaks both to moral responsibility and practical leadership. It concludes that integrating this al-Ghazalian ethical approach into Malaysia’s political culture is vital for ensuring that technological progress remains aligned with human values and the broader aspirations of the Madani framework.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	al-Ghazali, Society 5.0, Madani, Political Integrity, Ethical Leadership
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BJ Ethics > BJ1188 Religious ethics H Social Sciences > HM Sociology > HM1 Sociology (General and theoretical) J Political Science > JC Political theory
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Ahmad Ibrahim Kulliyyah of Laws > Department of Islamic Law
Depositing User:	Dr Izham Hakimi Bin Redzan
Date Deposited:	06 Jul 2026 16:31
Last Modified:	06 Jul 2026 16:31
Queue Number:	2026-06-Q3882
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/129674

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