By Dayangku Hidayatul
KUCHING, Oct 28: Sarawak is aiming to produce the next generation of Quranic reciters and memorizers by strengthening Quranic education and expanding learning opportunities for communities in both urban and rural areas.
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi said the establishment of the Darul Hana Quranic Centre of the Sarawak Islamic Council (DHQc-MIS) reflected the Sarawak government’s commitment to developing Quranic education and producing more qualified teachers.
“We want to produce more qualified Quranic teachers, strengthen existing educational institutions and ensure the continuous development of talents among qari, qariah, hafiz and hafizah,” he said when speaking at the Tilawah Al-Quran Bandaraya Se-Borneo at the Sarawak Islamic Complex last night (Oct 27).
Abdul Rahman said opportunities to learn and deepen one’s understanding of the Quran must be extended to all segments of society, regardless of whether they live in urban or rural areas.
He believed many Sarawakians had considerable talent in Quranic studies but might not have sufficient opportunities to showcase their abilities.
As such, he said ongoing initiatives would focus on strengthening existing talent development programmes while identifying and nurturing a new generation to sustain Sarawak’s achievements in the field.
One notable achievement was Ustazah Nur Syakura Mohamad Musa from Kuching, who was crowned champion in the female category at the 66th International Quran Recitation and Memorisation Assembly 2026.
Abdul Rahman said her success demonstrated that Sarawak’s talent could excel on the international stage, adding that efforts to nurture future reciters and memorizers would continue to be strengthened.
He also highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in advancing Quranic education, saying the Tilawah Al-Quran Bandaraya Se-Borneo carried significance beyond that of a competition.
Although separated by administrative and national borders, he said, Muslim communities across Borneo remained united by their love for the Quran.
He hoped the gathering would encourage greater sharing of expertise in Quranic recitation, memorisation, teacher training and talent development, with cooperation continuing beyond the event.
Abdul Rahman also expressed appreciation to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for his leadership in advancing Sarawak’s development while giving attention to community harmony, religious institutions and the spiritual well-being of the people.
He said maintaining this balance was essential to building a competitive and prosperous State. — DayakDaily
