Prof. Azyumardi Azra, Fukuoka Prize 2014 Academic Prize laureate, has passed away on 18th September 2022.
Prof. Azyumardi Azra was an outstanding historian, a progressive educator and an Islamic intellectual who advocates a moderate interpretation of Islam. He has rendered great service to form a multi-cultural and harmonious civilian society in Indonesia, and his practical activities, originating from his profound understanding of Islamic culture, have contributed greatly to cross-cultural understanding in international society. 

When he received his award in 2014, spoke in the award ceremony and the public lecture entitled ‘Democratizing and Growing Indonesia: Ties between Japan, the West, and the Islamic World’ where he talked about that Indonesia is a country built upon Pancasila, or the official philosophical foundation of the Indonesian state, comprising five principles, therefore it fulfills to coexists with local cultures and other religions. Also in his visit to Fukuoka Chuo High School, Prof. Azra mentioned Japanese food was popular in many cities in Indonesia, strong interest for religions in young people in Indonesia and taught the students about the differences in the views of religions and customs between Japan and Indonesia. He had a lot of exchange with citizens of Fukuoka.

In memory of his many achievements, we would like to send our sincere condolences to his family. 

Secretariat of Fukuoka Prize Committee