His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam emphasised the importance of Brunei Darussalam’s commitment to strengthening the reading of Al-Quran.
In a titah delivered to mark the National Level Nuzul Al-Quran Celebration for 1445 Hijrah at the International Convention Centre last night, His Majesty urged the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) and the Ministry of Education (MoE) to enhance the learning and teaching of Al-Quran in both government and private schools.
He stressed the need for continuous monitoring of Al-Quran education from primary to tertiary levels.
“I hope all Bruneian children are able to read Al-Quran with Tajwid,” His Majesty added. “Hence, teachers are required to teach Al-Quran, especially for primary school children who have not yet mastered fluent reading, while not neglecting secondary level students.”
Acknowledging the MoRA’s implementation of the Tahsin Qira’atil Quran programme introduced in 2021, the monarch praised it as a valuable initiative to enhance the skills of religious teachers in Al-Quran reading.
“I believe the implementation of this programme can produce quality religious teachers proficient in the reading of Al-Quran,” His Majesty said.
His Majesty also acknowledged the Tadabbur Al-Quran programme conducted by various parties, especially agencies under the MoRA and other educational institutions.
With the establishment of such initiatives, the monarch emphasised the importance of not only fluently reading Al-Quran but also comprehending its content, which is the desired outcome of Tadabbur.
Expressing gratitude for the commitment of government, the private sector, local agencies and youth in embracing Al-Quran through various study centres and classes aimed at refining Al-Quran reading skills, His Majesty highlighted the importance of these classes in strengthening religious practice.
He urged relevant agencies to continue supporting these efforts while ensuring adherence to the teachings of Ahli Sunnah Wal Jama’ah of Mazhab Syafi’e. Reflecting on the theme of the event, His Majesty underscored the significance of Al-Quran as a source of guidance, especially in challenging times. The monarch emphasised Al-Quran’s role as a comprehensive guide containing answers to life’s questions, fostering prosperity when adhered to by all.
His Majesty invited everyone to pray to Allah the Almighty for the multiplication of rewards for fasting and other religious deeds carried out during the blessed month of Ramadhan. The monarch also presented prizes to winners of the National Level Al-Quran Memorisation and its Understanding Competition for 1445 Hijrah.
Accompanying His Majesty were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah.
This year’s event, themed ‘Al-Quran Pedomanku’, was co-organised by MoRA, the Ministry of Health, the MoE, Royal Brunei Airlines, and the MABIMS Centre for Al-Quran Studies and Dissemination. – Azlan Othman
