KUCHING: Sarawak’s goal of achieving developed and high income status by 2030 must be underpinned by strong Islamic values and Quranic understanding to ensure balanced and sustainable progress.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Law, MA63 and State-Federal Relations), Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali, said the Sarawak Government remains committed to fostering a culture of reading, understanding and practising the teachings of the Quran as the foundation of balanced human capital development.
She said the initiative is in line with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, which not only focuses on economic transformation but also prioritises the development of people guided by strong moral and religious values.
“As the government works towards making Sarawak a developed and prosperous state through PCDS 2030, we must also reflect on the future direction and values of our people.
“Some may wonder whether rapid development will weaken our Islamic values, but our progress will continue to go hand in hand with the growth of Islamic teachings,” she said.
She said this in her speech at the Kuching Division Quran Recitation Assembly for 1448 Hijrah at Arcum Tent, Majma Mall, last night (Wednesday, July 1).
Sharifah Hasidah stressed that a state’s success should not be measured solely by economic achievements, but also by the strength of its people, who must be knowledgeable, morally upright, and guided by Islamic principles in their daily lives.
She added that families, schools and communities play a vital role in nurturing a generation that is competitive, responsible and capable of contributing meaningfully to Sarawak’s long-term development.
“In our journey towards becoming a high-income region by 2030, we need citizens who are mature, knowledgeable, hardworking and committed to preserving unity.
“Let us continue strengthening harmony, avoid division, and work together to build a more prosperous and competitive Sarawak,” she said.
Sharifah Hasidah also described the Quran as an essential guide for Muslims in navigating modern-day challenges, emphasising that it should be understood and practised rather than merely recited.
She noted that digital technology has made Quranic learning more accessible through mobile applications and online platforms, leaving little excuse for Muslims not to engage with the holy book.
“Islam has never discouraged the use of technology. Instead, we should embrace it to ensure the message and recitation of the Quran continue reaching people across the world,” she said.
She added that this year’s Quran Recitation Assembly demonstrates how digital platforms can be used to expand Islamic outreach, with live broadcasts enabling wider public participation, while attributing Sarawak’s peace, harmony and prosperity to visionary leadership that balances economic progress with the strengthening of Islamic values.
