The Third Daisaku Ikeda Memorial Lecture on “Human Revolution” – Respect for Life and the Limitless Potential within Each Individual

On 11 January 2026, SGM held the third Daisku Ikeda Memorial Lecture with Prof Emeritus Tan Sri Dato’ Dr Dzulkifli Abdul Razak, former International Islamic University Malaysia rector and 14th International Association of Universities president (2012–16), as distinguished guest speaker, providing his insights on SGI president Daisaku Ikeda’s profound philosophy of human revolution. With the support of UN Global Compact and Brickfields Asia College (BAC), this year’s lecture was held at Menara BAC, drawing 341 on-site participants, with another 284 tuning in through livestreaming. 

In his welcoming remarks, the UN Global Compact Network Malaysia and Brunei executive director Faroze Nadar stressed that the private sector plays a vital role in peacebuilding by fostering inclusive growth, reducing inequalities and acting as a responsible force for good in supply chains. He further adds that President Ikeda’s legacy offers enduring guidance even in the business world for those who seek to create value not only economically, but socially and spiritually as well. 

Later in his opening speech, SGM General Director Koh Sia Feai highlighted President Ikeda’s dialogue efforts with world leaders, his advocacy for education and peace, and his prolific output as a writer, most notably in writing The Human Revolution and The New Human Revolution serialised novels.

Following the theme, three SGM youth representatives, Lin Tan Yen Tzing, Teoh Chuen Seng and Dr Sherman Koh shared heartfelt stories of overcoming personal struggles and creating value in society, inspiring audiences to carry out human revolution and become a better self who contributes to the society.

Tan Sri Dzulkifli then delivered his keynote address on human revolution, stating that the concept is relevant to people today. He argued that while many significant human revolutionary developments have benefited humanity, crises remain prevalent today. He later stressed that the idea of humanity must come first, stating, “We can be different, but we must be equal.” He further emphasised the value of sejahtera, which promotes holistic wellbeing of a person, should be prioritised in all aspects of systems that require human involvement. Lastly, he further adds that human revolution is the key to change based on people’s inner transformation, focusing on the heart and mind.  

SGM president Johnny Ng summed up Tan Sri Dzulkifli’s speech, highlighting that the Malaysian value of sejahtera supports the concept of human revolution. He believes that to honour President Ikeda is to practise human revolution in our daily lives, based on upholding human dignity and people’s limitless potential. 

A booklet on this memorial lecture will be published at a later date. 

Reported by Ashlynn Tham, photographed by Jeffery Lum and Wan Da Xi