THE DMDI INTERNATIONAL QURAN RECITAL
VOICES OF REVELATION, A WORLD UNITED BY THE QURAN
Beneath the calm sky of Melaka, in a space filled with the echoes of sacred verses, the 16th DMDI International Quran Recitation (Tilawah) took place as a gathering that transcends a mere event. It was a meeting of souls, voices, and civilization—graced by the presence of T.Y.T Tun Seri Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Ali bin Mohd Rustam, Governor of Melaka and President of the Malay World Islamic World (DMDI), at Masjid As-Salimin, Jalan Kandang/Bukit Lintang.
This event, jointly organized with the Melaka Islamic Religious Council (MAIM), brought together distinguished figures, leaders, and guests from various countries. Among those present were YB Datuk Rahmad bin Mariman, YBrs. Encik Shaifulfazlee bin Mohamad, YBhg. Datuk Md Azhan bin Samat, along with DMDI leaders from across the globe—creating an atmosphere that symbolized the unity of the ummah rooted in faith and knowledge.
Also in attendance were notable figures such as Prof. Datuk Dr. Haji Mohd Hasbi Abu Bakar, Datuk Said Aldi Al Idrus, Mr. Nos Sles from Cambodia, Datuk Seri Haji Rusli Zainal, Prof. Emeritus Datuk Wira Dr. Haji Mohd Jamil Mukmin, Datuk Mohd Ridhwan Mohd Ali, and Dr. Haji Maulana, Mayor of Jambi. Their presence did more than fill the space—it brought to life the meaning that the Quran remains a unifying point for the Malay and Islamic world.
In his officiating speech, T.Y.T Tun Seri Setia warmly welcomed participants from Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, China, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, and Singapore. His voice was calm yet deeply meaningful—as if reminding all that this gathering is not merely an event, but a trust to uphold the values of the Quran in daily life.
"Within every verse that is recited, there lies wisdom to be embraced."
He emphasized that the purpose of organizing this Tilawah is not only to showcase the melodious voices of Qari and Qariah, but to truly understand and internalize the messages and wisdom within each verse. In every recitation, there is meaning; in every melody, there is guidance leading the ummah toward balance and tranquility.
More than that, he called upon participants to compete with proper conduct and sincerity. According to him, this stage is not merely a platform to seek victory, but a means to build ukhuwah (brotherhood), foster friendships across borders, and unite hearts in love for the Quran.
This year’s event gathered more than 500 participants and guests from DMDI member countries as well as the local community. A total of 75 participants took part—making this event not only significant in scale, but rich in meaning and spirit.
On the closing night, T.Y.T Tun Seri Setia once again attended to officiate the Closing Ceremony and Prize Presentation. A solemn and reverent atmosphere filled the mosque as the winners were announced—marking the end of a journey that was not merely a competition, but a deeply spiritual experience.
In the Qari category, the champion was Mohammad Syaheed bin Sabri from Pahang, followed by Muhammad Miftah Faridl from DKI Jakarta as runner-up, and Arif Hidayat from Lampung in third place.
Meanwhile, in the Qariah category, Sintia Febriani from Central Kalimantan emerged as champion, followed by Ma’rifah from South Sulawesi and Sunarti Larisa from Central Sulawesi.
In his closing remarks, T.Y.T Tun Seri Setia expressed his highest appreciation to all DMDI member countries that participated, as well as to the committee and staff who worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the event. With great hope, he expressed that this noble effort will continue to be strengthened—serving as a bridge of unity, harmony, and well-being for the Malay and Islamic ummah. May this event always be blessed with the mercy and grace of Allah SWT.
DMDI Indonesia Crowned Overall Champion of the International MTQ in Melaka, Malaysia
On the land of Melaka, rich with the traces of civilization, sacred voices once again resonate—piercing through space and time, binding hearts that come from many corners of the world. At the DMDI International Qur’an Recitation Assembly, participated in by 11 countries, Indonesia emerged not merely as a participant, but as a bearer of honor—winning the overall championship through its finest qori and qariah. They came carrying echoes from 27 provinces, uniting diversity into one shared voice: love for the Qur’an.
Behind this achievement stands a leadership that is calm yet purposeful. The Chairman of DMDI Indonesia, Datuk H. Said Aldi Al Idrus, together with Secretary General Muhammad Hasbi, witnessed how a long journey of development finally found its moment of light on the international stage. “This is not merely a victory,” he said softly, “but proof that dedication, continuous development, and love for the Qur’an can elevate the dignity of the ummah on the world stage.”
The assembly itself was not merely a competition arena. In his remarks, the President of DMDI, Tun Seri Setia H.M. Ali Rustam, emphasized that this tilawah serves as a platform to strengthen ties and build global cooperation. Within it lies a great hope—to eradicate Qur’anic illiteracy, expand education, and unite the steps of the ummah within a broader and more meaningful network. This gathering became a node where DMDI leaders from around the world connect, shaping the future in a spirit of togetherness.
“Compete with sincerity, for true victory lies in pure intention.”
For Said Aldi, the meaning of this assembly goes beyond mere achievement. It is a gateway to greater collaboration—among mosque organizations, educational institutions, and Islamic networks from ASEAN to Europe. “This cooperation is not only about programs,” he expressed, “but about building generations—strengthening human resources, expanding knowledge exchange, and ensuring that Islamic da’wah continues to live within the pulse of a global era.”
In the end, the resonance of this tilawah does not stop within the mosque or on the night of the awards ceremony. It flows into a deeper hope—that the younger generation will return closer to the Qur’an, making it their guide and light in life. “We hope,” Said Aldi concluded with confidence, “that this spirit will continue to live—for those who have succeeded, we congratulate you; and for those who have not, the journey is not over. God willing, we will return with stronger steps.”