BEAUFORT: The implementation of the Al-Quran and Tarannum Academy (AAT) in this area has successfully produced quality Qari and Qariah, enabling them to compete at a higher level.
Lumadan Assemblyman Datuk Ruslan Muharam said AAT played a crucial role since its establishment last July, with over 70 Qari and Qariah joining from the area.
He said during the 20 weeks, participants received exposure to strengthen their Al-Quran reading skills and aim to become the best Qari and Qariah representing the district at the Sabah State Level Al-Quran Recitation Council (MTQ).
“This district has produced many of the best Qari and Qariah in the country, and some have even been champions at the National Level MTQ.
“Therefore, we aim to replicate this glory by cultivating numerous high-quality Qari and Qariah through AAT, which operates under the Religious Bureau of the Lumadan Assemblyman’s Office,” he said after officiating the Gadong Zone MTQ and the Islamic Arts Festival at the Lumadan Dun level at the Kampung Suasa Mosque on Dec 23.
Ruslan, who is also Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, said next year his party would enhance the role of AAT by involving the participation of young people.
He said this effort, aside from capturing the interest of the youth, also aims to nurture a new generation of Qari and Qariah, as some of the current participants are from the elderly population.
“We will also involve the participation of schoolchildren, aiming not only to produce the best Qari and Qariah but also to educate them to love the Al-Quran.
“Through this initiative, we aim to cultivate students who can master the quality of reciting the Quran,” he said.
Ruslan also said his party would strengthen the Islamic Arts Festival at the Lumadan Dun level by organising a larger event next year.
He said this aspiration would encompass active participation from young people through organised competitions, including Kompang, Nasyid, Marhaban, and many more.
“We observe that young people have interest and ability in all areas of Islamic art, but there has been no space or opportunity for them to express their talents all this time.
“Thus, this festival will be their platform, and I have also urged all the mosques in this county to actively encourage youth participation in this initiative,” Ruslan said.
