Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), delivered a series of inspiring messages to the youth of the Islamic world during the opening ceremony of “Marrakech, Capital of Islamic World Youth 2025.”

Dr. AlMalik emphasized that success is not defined by titles or positions, but by the impact one has on the lives of others. He urged young people to “walk steadily and with great humility, for the tree, when it bears fruit, bends down. If you fall, do not despair, for falling is not the end but a lesson to learn and a driving force for success.”

He also called on youth to remain rooted in their values and to cherish their homelands, reminding them that every achievement brings a smile to a mother’s face and reassurance to the heart of a nation that awaits the contributions of its children. He encouraged them to leave a lasting mark in life, likening the compassionate doctor and the dedicated engineer to those who create enduring human legacies.

Moreover, Dr. AlMalik stressed the importance of mastering future skills. “Those who prepare today will be among the builders of tomorrow, while those who lag behind may find no place for themselves in a fast-paced world that waits for no one. Learn the languages of tomorrow—coding, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity—and remember that learning is a lifelong journey.”

This message formed part of his address at the official launch of “Marrakech, Capital of Islamic World Youth 2025,” held on Monday, June 30, 2025, as part of the Islamic Cooperation Youth Forum. The event is held under the high patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may Allah assist him, and brings together around 200 young men and women from 48 countries.

Dr. AlMalik reaffirmed ICESCO’s strong belief in the vital role of youth in building prosperous futures for their nations and reviving the glory of Islamic civilization. He emphasized the need to trust young people and provide them with real spaces for creativity and innovation.

He also praised the tremendous efforts of the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication of the Kingdom of Morocco for bringing culture to life in every street and square of the country. He commended the unwavering support of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, who views youth as the nation’s greatest wealth and considers culture a bridge to development and peace.

In closing, Dr. AlMalik lauded Marrakech’s unique status and well-earned titles, calling it a capital of dreams, youth, and innovation. He noted that ICESCO had previously designated Marrakech as the Culture Capital in the Islamic World for 2024, a celebration marked by rich cultural and artistic programming that showcased the city’s vibrant heritage and civilizational diversity.