SERIAN: The Serian Division-level Quran Recital Competition 2025 carried an added message of unity when Serian Resident Caroline Cleophas Joseph attended the event despite not being Muslim.
Deputy Speaker of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly Datuk Idris Buang said Caroline’s role as host reflected the spirit of mutual respect and religious harmony in the division.
“This may well be the first time a Muslim event was organised under the leadership of someone who is not Muslim.
“I deeply respect her for this,” he said when closing the programme at the Sarawak Government Administrative Centre (Serian Division) last night (Aug 18).
In her welcoming remarks, Caroline noted that she had been surrounded by Islam from a young age, with two of her siblings having embraced the faith.
She also thanked the organisers for including Quran translations during the recital, which allowed non-Muslims to follow the meaning of the verses.
The competition also showcased inspiring stories of dedication from its participants.
Wan Jamaluddin Wan Sait, 49, from Taman Duras Siburan, was crowned champion in the qari category.
A librarian assistant at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak’s Tun Abdul Rahman Yakub Library, he credited his daily commute as the key to his preparation.
“Much of our time is spent in the car, so I use my half-hour drive to listen to Quran recitations on YouTube and practise following the styles of experienced qari,” he said, adding that he also sharpened his skills by learning from Sarawak’s renowned reciters.
In the qariah category, 61-year-old Surayah Suparti from Kampung Munggo Limo emerged victorious.
A retired nurse, she now teaches the Quran full-time to some 40 students aged between three and 60.
“As a teacher, I want to set an example for my students and inspire them. Hopefully, one day they will follow in my footsteps, Insya-Allah,” she said.
Both champions took home RM1,000, along with a certificate and a trophy.
The qari prize was presented by Idris, while his wife, Datin Nurhidayah Hussain, presented the award to the qariah winner.
