Dr. AlMalik Proposes Establishing Uzbekistan-ICESCO Academy for Maqom and Launching the Global Prize and Program “Maqom Without Borders”

Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), announced a set of pioneering initiatives to advance the strategic partnership between ICESCO and the Republic of Uzbekistan, particularly in safeguarding and developing the art of Maqom. These include a proposal to establish the Uzbekistan-ICESCO Maqom Academy, launch a Global Maqom Prize, and strengthen the academic dimension of the International Maqom Art Forum by promoting scientific research and training new generations of researchers and artists specialized in this ancient art.

He made these remarks during his participation as a guest of honor at the opening session of the Third Maqom International Art Forum, held on Tuesday, 23 June 2026, in Namangan, under the auspices and in the presence of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The event saw the participation of several ministers of culture, representatives of international organizations, and around 250 experts, researchers, and artists from more than 80 countries.

Dr. AlMalik stressed that Uzbekistan, under the wise leadership of President Mirziyoyev, has demonstrated through its development vision that investment in culture and knowledge is among the noblest investments nations can undertake. He also noted that this vision has been instrumental in advancing the art of Maqom to its well-deserved place on the international cultural scene.

ICESCO Director-General also proposed launching an international program titled “Maqom Without Borders,” aimed at presenting Maqom music on major stages, universities, and cultural capitals worldwide, enabling this authentic artistic heritage to reach new audiences and reinforcing its role as a bridge for intercultural dialogue and communication.

Dr. AlMalik further explained that ICESCO will contribute its expertise in artificial intelligence and heritage to support the Global Digital Maqom Library, ensuring that this pioneering platform becomes an international reference for Maqom traditions and a knowledge space for preserving and making this artistic heritage accessible to researchers, artists, and cultural institutions.

He concluded by emphasizing that the International Maqom Art Forum goes beyond a celebration of music to represent a celebration of civilization, identity, and memory, highlighting that Maqom art preserves artistic wisdom and transmits it from one generation to the next, reflecting Uzbekistan’s enduring heritage.