KUCHING: The 2025 Sarawak-level Zikir Duduk Competition reflects continuous efforts to preserve Islamic heritage and promote the cultural identity of the Malay community in Sarawak.
Sarawak Malay National Association (PKMS) President, Datuk Dr Wan Ali Tuanku Madhi, expressed gratitude and pride towards continued efforts to elevate Islamic artistic traditions in the state.
“This is not merely a vocal performance competition, but a commitment to preserve Islamic heritage and the cultural identity of the Malay community in Sarawak,” he said.
He said this when officiating the 2025 Sarawak-level Zikir Duduk Competition hosted by PKMS, held as the opening segment of the two-day Borneo Marhaban Festival 2025 at Hikmah Exchange Event Centre (HEEC) today.
Wan Ali highlighted that PKMS is among the earliest organisations to introduce marhaban competitions locally since 1989, before successfully elevating the event to state level in 2023.
He added that the association has committed to hosting the programme biennially to ensure long-term continuity.
This year’s emphasis on the traditional ‘Zikir Duduk’ format offered a fresh perspective to the public, particularly youth, as the association strives to revive forms less commonly presented on mainstream stages.
He also conveyed appreciation to the Sarawak Government under the leadership of the Premier for its continued support of Islamic heritage preservation and efforts to strengthen the cultural identity of local communities.
“Insya-Allah, this event will continue to strengthen unity, inspire love for zikir and selawat , and foster harmony among Muslims across the state,” he added.
The event gathered 12 participating teams representing divisions across Sarawak, showcasing traditional Zikir Marhaban performances before an audience of approximately 250 attendees.
The morning session featured eight performances from 9:00 a.m. until noon, followed by four more presentations from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
For the record, professional judges, PKMS committee members, participants and local visitors contributed to the vibrant atmosphere throughout the day.
The programme continues today with the Borneo Marhaban Festival, bringing together a broader regional participation from across the island, further positioning Sarawak as an influential hub in Islamic cultural arts within the Nusantara region.
