i-RISE — Research for a fairer economy

Bright AI-generated Islamic economics research workspace with symbols of equitable policy, knowledge, and sustainability, with no people

Research rooted in values

Better thinking.
Fairer economies.
Brighter futures.

Advancing Islamic economics through policy-focused research, innovation, and collaboration. Ideas that make a difference to people, communities, and institutions.

INCEIF UNIVERSITY Research with purpose.

Our point of view01 — Purpose

Research should not
sit still. It should move
society forward.

We turn values into evidence, evidence into action, and action into a more equitable future.

Meet i-RISE

01 About i-RISE · Our story

Ideas grounded in values.
Change built together.

The Centre of Excellence for Research and Innovation in Islamic Economics—i-RISE—brings research, policy and people together to shape a fairer and more sustainable economy.

Our story.

Malaysia has consistently ranked first in the State of the Global Islamic Economy Report for the past decade, supported by a strong ecosystem spanning Islamic finance, halal food, pharmaceuticals and Muslim-friendly travel.

Guided by the Ekonomi MADANI Framework, i-RISE unites researchers, policymakers, industry and communities to address socio-economic challenges, climate change and human capital development.

The centre also oversees the Islamic Economics Research and Innovation Fund (IERIF), translating knowledge into initiatives that create meaningful public impact.

More about i-RISE
Purpose into action

Our mission

Explore our research
  1. 01

    Lead impactful, policy-focused research and innovative solutions rooted in Maqasid al-Shariah.

  2. 02

    Foster a vibrant research culture centred on innovation and sustainability.

  3. 03

    Advance knowledge and scholarship while developing capable talent in Islamic economics.

Connected by purpose

Who we
work with.

i-RISE

A shared commitment
to lasting impact.

Malaysia · Funding partner

Ministry
of Finance

University · Implementation partner

INCEIF

Malaysia International Islamic Financial Centre

MIFC

Islamic Economics Research and Innovation Fund

IERIF

02 Our capabilities

Knowledge that
moves with purpose.

From rigorous research to real-world implementation, our expertise connects evidence, people and ideas to create meaningful change.

01

Turning Islamic economic principles into actionable policy recommendations through the lens of Maqasid al-Shariah.

Policy-Focused &
Applied Research

02

Connecting researchers, ministries, industry and civil society to exchange evidence and support effective policy.

Networking

03

Strengthening knowledge and research capabilities for a just, prosperous and future-ready society.

Talent Development &
Capacity Building

04

Making research accessible through publications, insights and practical frameworks for decision-makers and communities.

Publications &
Translation

Evidence Collaboration Capability Impact

Purpose into progress

Our
Objectives.

Objective / 01

Fund High-Impact Research

Support rigorous, policy-focused research that strengthens Islamic economics as a humane, value-driven discipline for the benefit of society.

Objective / 02

Drive Innovation & Translation

Translate research into practical tools, products, and policy recommendations that deliver measurable impact for communities nationwide.

Objective / 03

Build a Collaborative Ecosystem

Mobilise scholars, industry partners, regulators, and civil society to work together on shared research priorities and challenges.

Objective / 04

Advance National & Global Goals

Align research with Malaysia's development agenda and global sustainability targets to build an equitable, resilient economy.

02 / Our research pillars

Five perspectives.
One better future.

Our five research pillars connect equitable economy, environmental sustainability, monetary system and policy efficacy, Islamic finance, and halal economy. Through IERIF, we support research aligned with national development priorities and global sustainability goals.

A tropical riverside garden with trees, flowers and a shaded pavilion
Cost-of-livingPovertyWorkforce (e.g., illegal foreign labour, gig workers)
Research with purpose

Equitable Economy

Broadening opportunity. Sharing prosperity.

Forested limestone hills beside a lake
Planetary HealthBiodiversityClimate Change
Research with purpose

Environmental Sustainability

Protecting the planet that sustains us all.

Economic analysis workspace overlooking Kuala Lumpur
The Concept of MoneyMoney Creation and SupplyFinancialisation
Research with purpose

Monetary System & Policy Efficacy

Building a stable, efficient, and socially responsive monetary system.

An Islamic finance research workspace with a laptop, calculator and ISRA journal
Financial InclusionIslamic FintechFinancial Innovation
Research with purpose

Islamic Finance

Connecting Islamic values with financial innovation.

A selection of packaged halal food products
Domestic & International TradeHalal FoodTourism
Research with purpose

Halal Economy

Advancing quality, integrity, and trust across halal markets.

5 IERIF Research Pillars
41 Approved Projects
21 High-Impact Projects
Ideas grow through connection

Big ideas.
Start here.

Connect with I-RISE about research collaboration, IERIF funding enquiries, knowledge sharing, or media requests.

A new conversation

Tell us what’s
on your mind.

A research question, a partnership idea, or a fresh perspective. We’d love to hear from you.

One message. A world of possibilities.