ISTAC-IIUM (International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization – International Islamic University Malaysia) houses a vast collection of manuscripts, including Malay manuscripts, Islamic manuscripts, and rare books. This collection serves as a valuable resource for researchers, scholars, and students interested in studying various aspects of Islamic thought, culture, and history.

Malay Manuscripts: ISTAC-IIUM’s collection includes a significant number of Malay manuscripts, reflecting the rich literary and cultural heritage of Malaysia and the broader Malay world. These manuscripts cover diverse subjects such as Malay literature, history, Islamic teachings, traditional medicine, and legal texts. They provide insights into the intellectual and social fabric of the Malay society across different periods.

Islamic Manuscripts: The institute also holds a substantial collection of Islamic manuscripts, written in Arabic, Persian, and other languages. These manuscripts cover a wide range of Islamic disciplines, including theology, jurisprudence, philosophy, Quranic studies, Hadith, Sufism, and the sciences. They encompass works by renowned Islamic scholars, commentaries on religious texts, treatises on various Islamic sciences, and theological debates.

Rare Books: In addition to manuscripts, ISTAC-IIUM houses a collection of rare books, which includes publications from significant Islamic scholars, historians, and philosophers. These rare books often provide valuable insights into the intellectual and cultural development of Islam. They cover a wide range of topics, such as Islamic philosophy, history, social sciences, and literature.

Digital Archiving: ISTAC-IIUM recognizes the importance of preserving and providing access to its valuable collection. The institute actively engages in digital archiving projects to safeguard the manuscripts and rare books while making them accessible to a broader audience. Through digitization efforts, selected manuscripts and rare books are available online, enabling researchers and scholars worldwide to explore and study these materials remotely. The digital manuscript collection is accessible through a specially designed system, which aims to facilitate students, particularly researchers of Malay manuscripts, Islamic manuscripts, and rare books. To access the collection, please follow THIS LINK.

Collaborations and Acquisitions: ISTAC-IIUM continues to expand its collection through collaborations with other institutions, both within Malaysia and internationally. These collaborations facilitate the sharing of resources and expertise, allowing ISTAC-IIUM to acquire new manuscripts and rare books. Additionally, the institute accepts donations from individuals and organizations interested in contributing to its growing collection.

Research and Academic Support: The collection at ISTAC-IIUM serves as a valuable research and academic resource. Scholars and researchers have access to these materials to conduct in-depth studies, publish scholarly works, and advance knowledge in various disciplines related to Islamic thought and civilization. Students at IIUM also benefit from the collection as they can utilize it for research purposes and academic coursework.


In conclusion, ISTAC-IIUM boasts an extensive collection of manuscripts, including Malay manuscripts, Islamic manuscripts, and rare books. This collection contributes to the preservation and dissemination of knowledge related to Islamic thought, culture, and history. Through digitization efforts, collaborations, and acquisitions, ISTAC-IIUM ensures wider accessibility and the continued growth of its valuable collection.