SARIKEI: The Sarikei Divisional Al-Quran Recitation Competition continues to nurture new qaris and qariahs while strengthening Islamic values through greater appreciation of the Quran.
Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh said the annual competition was more than a platform to assess participants’ recitation skills, but also served to develop knowledgeable, skilled and confident representatives capable of competing at higher levels.
Speaking at the closing ceremony at Masjid Ar-Rahmah’s multipurpose hall in Kampung Seberang on Tuesday (Jul 7), Len said mastery of tajwid and taranum should be continuously enhanced as both were essential in beautifying Quranic recitation and deepening understanding of its message.
The Kuala Rajang assemblyman said such efforts could also encourage more young people to engage with the Quran and participate in recitation-related activities as part of their spiritual and character development.
Len noted that the participation of 11 contestants, comprising six qaris and five qariahs, reflected the community’s continued enthusiasm for the art of Quranic recitation.
He also encouraged experienced qaris and qariahs to mentor younger talents through classes at mosques, suraus and community centres to ensure the continued success of Sarikei’s representatives in future competitions.
In the qari category, Ahmad Mukhlis Yahya emerged champion, followed by Awang Nurizal Awang Kenit as runner-up and Uwais Al-Qarni Yahya in third place.
For the qariah category, Siti Maisara Yahya claimed the title, while Latipah Hassan finished runner-up and Siot Toi placed third.
